General Information 
As an Episcopal Church in the Diocese of New York a wedding is a sacramental rite and we require that the marriage conform to the canons of this Church and the laws of the State of New York.  The approval of the Bishop is required if one or both of you have been divorced.

 St. James Episcopal Church will do everything to make your wedding the beautiful occasion you desire.  We look forward to getting to know you better, and especially if you are new to the area, we want to welcome you into the fellowship of our parish family.

All couples married at St. James receive a minimum of four pre-marital counseling sessions with the clergy.  These are designed to assist you in preparing for Christian marriage, and to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the design of the service itself.  You will also be asked to choose various readings and prayers, and assist in the overall design of the ceremony.

Where to start
The first step is to speak to our Rector.  The date and time of your wedding and the date of your rehearsal can be set up and cleared to make sure there are no scheduling conflicts.

Music
Music is an integral part of the wedding service.  St. James Episcopal Church has an Odell pipe organ.  Our Music Director, Jonathan Pope, telephone 203-270-9222, or organist, Mike Mulder, telephone 914 485-1128, will need to be consulted about any and all music at your wedding.  Please contact either directly to make the necessary arrangements.  We also have a soloist available. 

Flowers
Flowers are permitted on the shelf behind the altar, on the steps leading up to the altar, and may be placed at the end of the pews.  The flowers need to be coordinated between you and your florist.  There are florists in the area familiar with our church, and if you desire, the church office will provide you with the name of a local florist or you may use your own.

Photography and Videos
We wish you to have photographs and/or videos of your wedding.  However, we do have certain rules.  Flash pictures are not allowed during the ceremony, neither is any movement of the photographer.  A tripod may be set up at one location for stationary non-flash pictures during the service, if desired.  Posed still pictures may be taken following the service.  Videotaping is permitted, but must be arranged in advance with clergy.  The camera may be set up in one location and remain stationary during the service.  All photographers must speak with the clergy personally prior to the service.