Which type of ceremony

I must say for me the most important part of our Wedding day is the ceremony, but often this part is given the least time and attention. In these modern times we have so many options when it comes to the ceremony that you can make it completely personal to you as a couple.

Ever since I was a little girl I have wanted a traditional church wedding.  It’s good to note that if this isn't your first marriage it can be tricky to find a church that will perform the whole ceremony so take your time to find the right one.

If you want to have a church wedding the first step is to approach the church where you'd like it to be held – the rules are very flexible now you can get married in almost any church as long as you are prepared to attend for a few weeks if you do not have a connection to the church.

Things to think about:

• What do I need to do prior to the ceremony?
• What is the cost?
• Can I personalise the ceremony at all?
• Are there restrictions on music, confetti, flowers or photographers?
• If I have the bells rung is there an additional cost?

You will be expected to attend the reading of The Bans for three consecutive weeks before the ceremony at your chosen church. This allows any opponents to the wedding to come forward and voice their objections.

If your not religious or a church wedding is just not for you then another option is a civial ceremony aka registry office wedding. Civil ceremonies are strictly non-religious affairs so you won't be allowed any hymns or religious references but you can have your own music and readings and say your own vows in addition to the official ones.  A civil ceremony is now available in any premises with a marriage licence, many hotels, historic buildings and beautiful outdoor locations now hold a marriage licence. It is still very popular to have a ceremony performed in a registry office.  You have to give notice your intention to wed at least two weeks before your wedding. Take your passport and proof of address (utility bills, bank statements). After 15 days you'll be free to wed anytime within a year of that date.

Questions to ask:

• Can I have my own music, vows, readings?
• Can we decorate the room?
• How much does the room cost?