Weddings

Our iconic Colonial church in the heart of Williamstown is a beautiful setting for weddings. The church welcomes visitors and members alike to commemorate the sacred covenants between partners in ceremonies that reflect the interests and needs of the couple within the context of Christian faith and worship. As a congregation of the United Church of Christ, an open and affirming church, we welcome persons of all backgrounds and orientations.

CLICK HERE for our current Wedding Guidelines and Fees. Please contact the church office by phone 413-458-4273 or e-mail to ensure your desired date is available or to visit our facilities. Some information is provided below.

Ceremony Venue. The church Sanctuary features a high ceiling, box pews, and elegantly simple classic architectural features, and a splendid Andover pipe organ. A charming concealed bride’s room is located near the front door. Floor Plan of Spaces Commonly Used for Weddings

Officiate. The pastor of the church, the Rev. Carrie Bail, is expected to officiate at all weddings. At the pastor’s discretion, another clergyperson may be invited to participate or officiate. If such an officiating clergyperson is from outside Massachusetts, a special certificate must be obtained from the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth.

Music. The church organist, Edwin Lawrence, is expected to be asked to play at all weddings where organ music is requested. At the pastor’s and the church organist’s discretion, other organists and guest musicians may be invited to participate.

Intention and License. Intentions to marry are filed with a Williamstown Town Clerk at least three days before a license is granted, the day of filing not included. The legal age not requiring parental consent is 18 years. Massachusetts requires a medical certificate of a blood test for both partners, which may be given by a licensed physician. Results are not required when intentions are filed, but no license can be issued without the medical certificate. The license may be used immediately upon issue, and remains valid for 60 days. It must be given to the officiating clergy before the ceremony. The clergyperson completes the license and returns it to the City or Town of origin. The cost of the license is $10 for either residents or non-residents of Massachusetts.

Building Use. A Building Use Form, confirming set-up and other arrangements, is to be filed with the church office.

Parking. The church parking lot holds up to 48 vehicles and will be reserved for the wedding guests.

Flowers. Flowers are the responsibility of the wedding couple, who should visit the church office to discuss plans for decorations. One or two arrangements are customarily left in church for the Sunday morning service following the wedding. Please arrange for the florist to call the church office before the ceremony to assure entrance to arrange a time to decorate the church.

Photographs. While bulb or strobe flashes are permitted only during the processional and recessional, available-light pictures may be taken from the choir loft and the body of the church during service itself. The wedding party is invited to pose for photographs in the church following the ceremony. Video cameras are permitted, provided they are stationary and use available light.

Receptions. Fellowship Hall is available for alcohol- free receptions.

Costs. For active members and contributing friends of the church, there is no charge for the use of the space, but there are fees for the organist and sexton. For families who are neither active members nor contributing friends of church, the total fees for use of the Church is $1,075.

Please contact the church office by phone 413-458-4273 or e-mail for more details.