If you don’t find your answers below, call us @ 330-353-8399
About the Event:
Why The Love Gift ~ Free Wedding Day?
Why The Love Gift ~ Free Wedding Day?
Love is priceless, but weddings aren’t. After, all the average cost of a wedding in Stark County is approximately $22,619. With the down economy and the cost of living skyrocketing, most couples forgo getting married altogether, opting for cohabitation.
Cathedral of Life Church decided to get involved because we care about the marriage act and we love people. It’s simple, we want to tell people that we’re for them and remove any financial barriers that stand in the way of them leading a fulfilling life according to God’s purposes.
The Love Gift got its’ name because we want to spread the love of Jesus Christ. Cathedral of Life Church decided to host this event because we believe in marriage and we believe in God’s vision of family. We wanted to be a blessing in the lives of the couples who participate and show the love of God through this act of service.
Here’s what we provide:
- Pre-marriage counseling
- Minister service
- Floral Package (including bouquets for bride, 1 bridesmaid, boutonnieres for the groom and 1 groomsman.)
- Photographer package up to 15 pictures (additional pictures and additional flowers can be purchased.)
- Light Reception (if requested) light appetizers and wedding cake for up to 25 guests.
What we ask of you:
Couples should:
- Attend pre- marriage counseling (one session with the Pastor and workbook)
- Obtain a valid State of Ohio marriage license ($42 at the couple’s expense)
(If previously married, divorce must be final for at least 2 years.) - Provide their own transportation to and from the church for all counseling, consultations, practice, and ceremony.
- Communicate about participation. If the circumstances change and the couple would like to drop out please let us know.
- Assign a member of the bridal party to be responsible for removing any gifts brought to the church during your ceremony and reception. (The church is not responsible for keeping track of personal items and gifts.)
- Providing the church with the final number of guest who will attend the ceremony. As well as the final number of guests who will attend the reception. (reception is optional)
- Be on time for all appointments and for the day of the ceremony. The Church reserves the right to cancel a ceremony if the bride and groom are not on time. Coordinating the flow of the ceremonies is crucial – tardiness will not be tolerated.
- The couple does not have to be attending church regularly and will not be required to join the church.
How It All Works ~ The Logistics!
On the day of the event, Cathedral of Life Church will host 15 small separate weddings and one big reception
The Wedding
- Couples will be married in their own private ceremony at Cathedral of Life Church.
- Each couple can invite up to 25 guests
- Each couple can have a bridal party including one bridesmaid, one groomsman, one flower girl, and one ring bearer OR the couple can have their children stand with them. (bridal party does not count toward guest limit)
- Ceremony decorations are fixed for all couples in neutral colors but each bride is able to choose from a list of bouquets provided for the bride and boutonniere for the groom.
- A wedding coordinator will be provided to help chooses details for your ceremony.
- Each couple will be provided with a private dressing area for the bride and her party.
- A photographer will be provided to capture the ceremony as well as additional poses for the family following the ceremony.
- Music for the ceremony is included.
The Reception (optional)
One large reception will be held for all of the couples to celebrate with their guests. A wedding cake will be provided and the traditional cake pictures, first dances and bouquet toss will happen at that time. Appetizers, cake and punch will be served.
The Love Gift FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Where do I get my Marriage License?
A: For details on obtaining a marriage license, Click Here.
(If previously married, divorce must be final for at least 2 years.)
Q: Can I select the date of the wedding.
A: Unfortunately, no. We know, this is your special day, the free weddings will only take place October 20, 2012 at specific times.
Q: Do I need to register in advance for the Free Wedding?
A: Yes. To register, simply return your completed application. Registration will take place on a first come, first serve basis.
Q: Is there a cutoff date to register?
A: Yes,because you will be required to attend a pre marriage class prior to the free wedding date.
Q: Do I have to wear a wedding dress?
A: No. You are not required to wear a wedding gown. However, this wedding will be conducted inside of a church, so modest attire is expected.
Q: How many people can be a part of my bridal party?
A: Each couple can have four people in their bridal party. (For example: one bridesmaid, one groomsman, one flower girl, and one ring bearer)
Q: Can I have my children stand with me instead of having a traditional bridal party?
A: Yes! You may have your children stand with you. We suggest that the children be of an age to handle standing still during the ceremony.
Q: Will other couples be getting married at the same time?
A: No. You have your own ceremony but others will be married on the same day.
Q: Can I write my own vows?
A: No, unfortunately due to the nature of this event the vows repeated will be the traditional wedding vows.
Q: Can I provide my own minister?
A: No, you will be required to be married by a pastor at this Church.
Q: Can I provide my own photographer?
A: Yes, however the Church does offer wedding packages from our photographer. Please inform us if you plan to have your own photographer.
