Church promotes cheaper weddings

The church says weddings do not need to be expensive

A church in South Yorkshire is attempting to convince love-struck couples they do not have to spend a fortune to get married.

St James' Church in South Anston is holding an alternative wedding fair to dispel the myth that weddings have to be an "expensive and fashion-conscious extravaganza".

It will promote the wedding as a simple celebration of a couples' love and commitment to each other - as opposed to an expensive, time-consuming affair.

Reverend Patrick Coghlan quotes a couple that planned their wedding in just six weeks as an example of how quickly it can be turned around.

Cost saving

He said: "It was a wonderful occasion with a reception at the parish hall."

The legal fees for a wedding in a Church of England Parish Church are £150.50.

That is before extra costs such as flowers, invitations and cars are included.

But for couples looking for the ultimate in cost saving, Mr Coghlan said one bride walked from her home to the church for a wedding in 2000.

The fair is to be held at St James' Church on Saturday 15 February.