Can we really have a beautiful church wedding for $995?

Cresskill Congregational Church believes a meaningful wedding shouldn't require an enormous budget. Simple & Sacred Weddings was created for couples who want a beautiful, spiritual ceremony without the expense and complexity of a large traditional wedding.

 

Do we have to be members of the church?

No. You do not need to be a member of Cresskill Congregational Church to be married here. We welcome couples from our community and beyond.

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Do we have to belong to a particular religion?

No. Our weddings are Christian in tradition, but we welcome couples from different religious backgrounds as well as those who don't currently belong to a church. We'll work with you to create a ceremony that feels meaningful and comfortable.

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Do you perform LGBTQ+ weddings?

Absolutely. Cresskill Congregational Church is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. We joyfully welcome LGBTQ+ couples and believe every couple deserves to have their marriage celebrated with dignity, love and respect.

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Can divorced people be married at the church?

Yes. A previous marriage does not prevent you from being married at Cresskill Congregational Church.

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Can we renew our marital vows, even if they were administered in another religion, or civillay only? 

Yes. We celebrate all marriages, regardless of where they were originally performed.​

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We will be married outside the country, in a "destination wedding." Can you perform another ceremony for our friends and family here who couldn't make the trip? 

Yes. We will create your ceremony for your individual situation. ​

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How much does a wedding cost?

Our Simple & Sacred Wedding package is designed to make a beautiful church wedding affordable and straightforward.  The package includes minister, pre-marital session, music consultation/service planning, rehearsal, sanctuary, live music and basic set up/clean up. The $995 price is far less than the large venue costs associated with many traditional weddings in North Jersey.  

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Can we have a very small wedding?

Yes! Intimate weddings are welcome. Whether you're inviting just a few loved ones or planning a larger ceremony, we'll help you create something that feels special.

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Can we have just the ceremony at the church and hold our reception somewhere else?

Absolutely. In fact, that's one of the advantages of Simple & Sacred Weddings. You can enjoy a traditional church ceremony and then celebrate afterward wherever and however you choose.

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Can we personalize our ceremony?

Yes. You'll have an opportunity to discuss readings, vows, music and other elements with the minister. We want your ceremony to reflect you as a couple while maintaining the beauty and meaning of a church wedding.

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Can we write our own vows?

Yes. You can use traditional vows, write your own, or combine elements of both.

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Can our children, friends or pets participate?

Yes. Children, relatives and friends often participate through readings, music or other appropriate parts of the ceremony.  And of course, well-behaved dogs are welcome (with a $75 cleaning deposit).

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Can we choose our own music?

Yes, within reasonable guidelines for the church setting. Our musician can help you select music for the processional, recessional and other parts of the ceremony, whether you choose our pianist or cellist, or other musician.

 

Is a rehearsal included?

Yes, a one-hour rehearsal is included, we recommend you include the bridal couple and any attendants, parents or other participants, such as those who will do a reading during the ceremony.

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How far in advance do we need to book?

We recommend reserving your date as early as possible, but we are able to accommodate weddings on shorter notice depending on availability.

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Is there free parking?

Yes. There is a lot behind the church and street parking.

 

Is the church accessible for guests with mobility issues?

Yes, there is a ramp into church, another inside church, and an easily accessible restroom. 

 

Can we decorate the church?

Yes, within church guidelines. Flowers, pew decorations, candles, aisle runners, etc. are generally welcome.

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Can we take photographs and video during the ceremony?

Yes, subject to reasonable guidelines so photography doesn't interfere with the ceremony.

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Do you have space for the wedding party to get ready?

Yes, our Virla Room is private, and perfect for the bride. Other members may use our Fellowship Hall. 

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Can we hold our reception at the church?

Yes, our Fellowship Hall can accommodate up to 100 guests. Ask about pricing.

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What do we need for a New Jersey marriage license?

Couples are responsible for obtaining their marriage license.  You will need to make an appointment in Cresskill prior to the wedding. The minister will complete the officiant's portion following the ceremony.

 

How do we reserve our wedding date?

Contact us at 201-294-7309 (call or text) or email moderator@cresskillucc.org. We'll confirm availability, answer your questions and explain the next steps. Of course, there is no obligation.

Do we need to be members of Cresskill Congregational Church?

No. You do not need to be a member of Cresskill Congregational Church to be married here. We welcome couples from our community and beyond.

​

Do we have to belong to a particular religion?

No. Our weddings are Christian in tradition, but we welcome couples from different religious backgrounds as well as those who don't currently belong to a church. We'll work with you to create a ceremony that feels meaningful and comfortable.

​

Do you perform LGBTQ+ weddings?

Absolutely. Cresskill Congregational Church is an Open and Affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. We joyfully welcome LGBTQ+ couples and believe every couple deserves to have their marriage celebrated with dignity, love and respect.

​

Can divorced people be married at the church?

Yes. A previous marriage does not prevent you from being married at Cresskill Congregational Church.

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