A wedding is a celebration of love, joy, and unity expressed through the act of Christian worship. And, it is a time of thanksgiving, prayer and commitment. In order to guide couples through the process of planning a wedding at St. John's we have provided the following church policies and guidelines.

Photography

Photographers and friends should be advised that flash photography will not be allowed during the service. Photo sessions can be arranged to take place before and after the service.

Videographers are allowed in the balcony or in front of the sanctuary at the discretion of the pastor. They should arrive no less than 30 minutes prior to the wedding. Please discuss arrangements with the pastor.

Rice - Confetti - Old Shoes

These are not permitted to be thrown as a part of your "farewell;" however, bird seed, flower petals, bubbles, etc., may be used outside the building.

Flowers

You may have your own florist for your wedding. Flowers and bows are to be tied, not pinned or taped to pews or candelabra. Please make your florist aware of this policy. The custodian will be happy to assist your florist.

Music

The church organist will be happy to assist you in your selection of music and will work with any soloists you may desire. Since, like all pipe organs, the instrument at St. John's is one of a kind, we are unable to invite other organists to play for our services.

It is your responsibility to set up an appointment with the organist. Dr. Eric Miller (410-744-5700).

Rehearsal

Proper attire is appropriate for the wedding rehearsal.

Wedding coordinator

The church will provide a coordinator to assist you during the rehearsal and wedding. This person will be able to help make your wedding the perfect event you want it to be.

Facilities

The sanctuary will be available two hours prior to the wedding for decorating purposes. The custodian will be glad to assist in decoration and help steer away from mistakes.

Members of the bridal party will be able to use rooms in the church for dressing, receiving lines and photos. These may be arranged for at the rehearsal through your wedding coordinator. Please designate someone to remove personal belongings within one hour after the conclusion of the wedding.

Aisle Runner

Aisle runners are not necessary; however, should you desire to use one, the center aisle is 75 feet in length.

Candle Light Weddings

Pew torches and wall sconces are available at a cost of $25 (to cover the cost of the candles) and may be used at daytime as well as evening weddings.

Premarital Counseling

Because of the serious nature of the commitment you are making, it is important that you be prepared not only for the wedding, but for the years ahead. To this end you will be asked to participate in premarital counseling with the pastor. The sessions are designed to help you understand each other as well as the marriage relationship and all that it entails.

Before each session, you will receive a questionnaire to be filled out and returned to the church office. The sessions are informative, fun, and full of vital resources for your future. There will be five sessions arranged to fit your schedule, each lasting 45 minutes.

Your Wedding Service

You will have a part in planning your wedding at St. John's as, together with the pastor, you select scripture readings, vows, and the context of your service.

License

For the marriage to be performed at St. John's a valid license issued from Baltimore County must be obtained and given to the church office no later than 72 hours prior to the wedding for recording. The pastor will help you with further information on how to obtain your license.

Off Premises

A member of the clergy staff may from time to time officiate at a wedding site other than at St. John's; however special arrangements must be made with the senior pastor and the counseling requirements are not waived.

Air Conditioning

The sanctuary is climate controlled for your comfort.

Garden Weddings

The Meditation Garden is available if you prefer an outside wedding at a cost of $50. Chairs for guests are .50 cents per chair and will be placed and removed by the custodian.

Note: Outdoor weddings run the risk of rain, bugs, and incredible heat during the hot Baltimore summers.

No Smoking

Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the building.

Overhills Mansion Reservations

If you would like to reserve the Overhills Mansion Ballroom for your wedding reception, please contact Whitehouse Catering. For more information go to www.overhillsmansion.com.

Cost Sheet

For Sanctuary, Organists, programs, and other costs please contact the church office