Scarsdale Congregational Church

A wedding ceremony is a celebration and an occasion for joy. It is also a solemn occasion of great depth and seriousness. But above all, a wedding ceremony conducted in the Sanctuary or in Eastman Chapel is a service of worship. Accordingly, the church has established the following requirements in order that the occasion, the wedding party, and the building itself shall be properly respected.

If you are considering being married in the Scarsdale Congregational Church, please contact one of our ministers - Phil Washburn, Steve Murray or Elizabeth Junod - by phone at 914-723-2111 or make an appointment to see them in the Church Office at One Heathcote Road, Scarsdale, NY 10583.

All wedding parties are asked to observe the following requirements.

Picture Taking

If you engage a professional photographer, there may be no picture taking during the ceremony (except from the Sanctuary balcony without flash). Ushers should inform guests of this prohibition if guests come into the church with cameras. (Re-staging of the ceremony after the service for purposes of taking pictures is perfectly acceptable.)

Taping

As above, no cameras or special lighting may intrude upon the service. If camera operators do not cooperate with these requirements, the service will not begin.

Flowers

An arrangement for the center table is desirable and recommended. Additional floral arrangements, if desired, should not interfere with the movement of the wedding party, and are best kept to a minimum.

Pew Ribbons

Ribbons may not be affixed to the pews or any other part of the building with any kind of tape. Rubber bands may be used.

Showering the Bride and Groom as They Leave the Church

Birdseed is acceptable, but may not be tossed within the church building. Paper or rice may not be used due to the difficulty of cleaning. The release of balloons is prohibited for environmental reasons.

Marriage License

The marriage license should be brought to the rehearsal (or left with the minister at the church office the day prior to the wedding).

Late Fee

If the service is more than twenty minutes late starting due to the tardiness of the wedding party, there will be an additional charge of 30% payable to the officiating clergy, organist, and steward.

Traffic Control

In the event of a large wedding, you may wish to have an officer assist guests crossing Heathcote Road. Arrangements should be made directly with the Scarsdale Police. (914-723-0410)