Weddings/Commitment Ceremonies

Weddings
We are delighted when a couple makes the decision to commit their lives to one another through the ceremony of marriage, and are especially pleased to perform legally-sanctioned marriage ceremonies for members of West Shore UU Church.  We recommend that the couple plan to meet with the minister a minimum of three meetings.  Our Ministers are trained to offer the “Prepare/Enrich Program for Marital Enhancement.”  The Prepare/Enrich survey is a tool used by many ministers to help couples know more about one another and to be more fully prepared for their marriage.  We have found that the conversation couples have with the officiant is an important step in the path towards marriage.

Same-sex Ceremonies
Unfortunately, the state of Ohio has not yet made same-sex marriage legal. However, we believe that the love and commitment same-sex couples share is no less than the love and commitment of any other couple. Therefore, although there are no new legal rights, we recognize same-sex ceremonies as religious weddings. Of course, if a couple prefers to call their ceremony a “commitment ceremony” or “ceremony of union” we will honor that request. The same honorarium for non-member services is requested and we find that the Prepare/Enrich process is useful for all couples.

Marriage Fees.  There is an honorarium asked of non-members, ranging from $300 (without rehearsal) to $350 with a rehearsal.  For weddings performed off church grounds an additional .445 per mile travel charge will be added. In addition, a Marriage Licensing Fee of $30.00 will be charged for all couples who wish to be married by any minister associated with West Shore.  This fee will be donated towards Equality Ohio, to support their work to make the legal benefits of marriage available to all non-heterosexual couples. 

To ask for a minister of West Shore to be the officiant, call one of the parish co-ministers directly at 440-333-2255 ext. 102 (Wayne Arnason)  or ext. 115 (Kathleen Rolenz).  If you’d like to book a space in the building please contact our administrator, Debbie Lydon.  For a complete listing of rental fees, click here.

Your Reception at West Shore
West Shore has the ability to accommodate up to 180 guests for your reception in Baker Hall.  We have both round and rectangular tables that can seat from eight to ten individuals.  We can supply tablecloths, microphones, a screen (for powerpoint/slide show) a dance floor and a small stage. 

Musicians
Our music director is available to play piano or organ for your wedding or commitment ceremony.  Please call David Blazer at 440-333-2255 ext. 114 and set up an appointment to speak directly with him.  The honorarium for all weddings without a rehearsal is $150.