Frequently Asked Wedding Questions

Do I need to be a member of your church to get married?
No. We do weddings for both members and non-members. All policies and requirements are the same for everyone.

Are fees different for members and non-members?
Yes.  Charges for the use of the facilities are waived for members and their immediate family, and active church participants. “Member” refers to persons who are on the current membership roll at FBC and are active in the life of the church. “Immediate family” includes children, grandchildren, siblings, and parents of members. “Active church participants” refers to persons who have a history of regular worship attendance or financial support. The facility use fee is also waived for all staff members of FBC and The Children’s Center.

Do we have to use one of FBC’s ministers?
Yes. FBC is very proud of the relationships built between our wedding team and each couple. To help make your wedding unique and personal, a minister will be chosen for your wedding according to their availability. Guest ministers are welcome to participate in the ceremony, but please review our guest minister policy on page two of the wedding contract.

Do we have to do premarital counseling?
Yes. We are here to prepare couples for marriage, not simply to perform weddings. Couples can expect to spend 4-6 hours meeting with the minister. This is an important time for the minister to get to know you as a couple, to help prepare you for marriage, and to plan your ceremony.

Who is part of the wedding team?
FBC has an amazing wedding team to ensure your wedding day is perfect! The required team for all weddings consists of the minister, wedding coordinator, sound system technician and custodian. Talented FBC musicians, including our organist, are available, but optional.

Do I have to use FBC’s wedding coordinator?
Yes. Laura Preston has over ten years of experience coordinating weddings at FBC and is your point of contact for all planning. She is available to you from your initial contact to the moment you leave the church on your wedding day. Outside coordinators are welcome to assist if you wish, but FBC’s coordinator will be the primary planner assisting you.

What is the timeline for planning a wedding?
Most couples prepare for their big day a year in advance. In order to allow time for planning and premarital counseling, you must book your wedding at least three months prior to the date.

Our wedding will be very small.  Do we need to follow the same policies?
Yes.  We have learned that every wedding deserves the same level of attention and care.  All weddings at FBC must follow the same policies regardless of the size of the wedding.

When are fees due?
Your deposit will reserve your wedding date.  The charge for the use of the facilities is due 30 days before the wedding.  Payments for the wedding team are due at the wedding rehearsal.  The deposit will be returned within 30 days after the ceremony, less any charges due.

What happens if I cancel my wedding?
Your initial meeting with the wedding coordinator is complimentary.  Your deposit will be completely refunded if you cancel your wedding date prior to meeting with the wedding team.  If you cancel after meeting with the wedding team, your deposit will be refunded, less a charge of $25 per hour met with the wedding coordinator and/or minister.