Arillas Forum
Welcome to Arillas => Arillas general information => Topic started by: sweetcheeks2k on August 10, 2010, 11:25:36 AM
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Hiya
We had a bit of a nightmare with our wedding in cyprus last oct and so we have a hol booked to Roda in Oct this year and had a good chat and would like to renew our vows. I contacted John Gulland at Holy Trinity in Corfu and he has advised marriage blessing would 300 euros and would ideally need to take place in corfu town. Cant take place on beach for privacy reasons.
I did ask re renewal of vows but am guessing they no longer offer this? As I know a couple of you renewed in Arillas at the cost of the transport of the person from the church conducting the ceremony.
We havent budgeted for this and so would like costs to be as small as possible and am not having photographer, make up and hair etc so very likely we cant afford the 300 euros as this is before we even get to the church via transport.
Anyone know if still possible to just renew vows?
Thanks again :)
x
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Hi, all I can say is that when we did it last year, we had 'renewal of vows' ceremony, and just had to make a donation to the church. We used a minister from Holy Trinity.
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Hi Jo
I remember your advice the start of the year! I contacted John Gulland at Holy Trinity who is the Chaplain and he has advised they can do a tahnsgiving of marriage or a marriage blessing and that they dont tend to call them renewal of vows as the vows you take on your wedding day are for life. He has told me whichever of the 2 I have the fee is 300 euros.
Thanks for the reply :)
x
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Hi Sweetcheeks
If you are stuck for a location in October let me know.
Couldnt have that come between you and a happy memory!
Regards
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Ah I see. Seems like I got in just-in-time!! We were in the same boat and couldn't afford much but I have to say it was the most special day you could imagine, despite the lack of funds!
I would even say it was more special than our wedding day as we had lived through many of the vows and understood the true meaning of what we had promised each other all those years ago.
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And just because I'm feeling soppy....
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt66/JoWissett/101.jpg)
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Hi Sweetcheeks,
See the following link http://www.san-stefano.gr/weddings.php (http://www.san-stefano.gr/weddings.php) It might be worth sending them email to ask your question.
Gorgeous photo Jo.
Sara..x
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Ah Jo that is lovely! Our wedding day had a bit of an issue that was out of our control and that is why we want something special but may have to be next year! :)
Sara thanks for that, what are they able to advise me on?
Thanks again
x
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I was thinking that maybe they could advise you about the possible 300 euros cost.
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I have popped them an email. Thanks Sara.
x
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Hiya Sara
I contacted the link you gave but all I received back was a quote on a renewal of vows package. Lol
x
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Hi Sweetcheeks,
That's a shame. If I think of anything else, I'll let you know.
Sara.
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I too would love some help with this I keep emailing people but getting no reply. I would love to renew our vows on Coru next year but I either get quoted really prices or people don't get back to me. Some say it can't be done then others say there are differnt venus butthey are £1400+
I have even been told the only way to do it is have a civil service again which can't be right.
All I am wanting is a simple non religious service and to make our vows again for the 3 of u, have some pictures taken and have a meal after somewhere its more about the vows for me really
Please please someone help
Grace
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Hi Grace
I have to say, thats exactly what we wanted and what we got. We had the dream reception at Dionysos up at Afionas, I will put a pic up, and we basically said to the owner, this is the money we have please can you make it fit for x amount of guests and he certainly did. The ceremony was arranged via email with the minister from Holy Trinity church in Corfu town. (holytrin@otenet.gr) We met up with him at Dionysos a few days before the ceremony and went through the vows, basically repeating your original (and any extra things you wanted to say).
We wanted the ceremony on the jetty in Arillas, which was just gorgeous, but never even thought about having to get permission? (whoops!). As far as I know nobody complained!
(http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt66/JoWissett/033.jpg)
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The ceremony was arranged via email with the minister from Holy Trinity church in Corfu town. (holytrin@otenet.gr) We met up with him at Dionysos a few days before the ceremony and went through the vows, basically repeating your original (and any extra things you wanted to say).
We wanted the ceremony on the jetty in Arillas, which was just gorgeous, but never even thought about having to get permission? (whoops!). As far as I know nobody complained!
Oh wow this sounds just what I want for us sounds stupid but it did nealy bring a tear to my eye. I found the website for the Holy Trininty Church and emailed them earlier I hope they get back to me quickly I just want to know as I'm planning it for as a surprise and I need to do things on the qt bit by bit lol do we need permission to hold it somewhere? By the way we are going to be staying in Kalami any ideas on where to have it round there?
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Hi Grace,
Contact Sophia who has experience of organising weddings...I'm sure she can also organise blessings... info@corfucarrentals.com
Eileen.
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Well I too had a reply from the Holy Trininty Church quoting te 300 euros but now I'm stuck for a private venue for the ceremony near Kalami? I would prefer not to have it in the church as we are not religious at all any way sorry I know this is an Arillas forum but you all seem so helpful
Grace x
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sorry I know this is an Arillas forum but you all seem so helpful
Grace x
Grace
The Forum consists of members who are always willing to help, whether it's Arillas or any subject. "Sorries" are not necessary here.
But.... I wish I could track down the Vicar who said I could renew my marriage licence every year or let it lapse,,,, - Only Joking - Honest!
Kevin G or Vivian are the two whose brains need to be picked for this topic as they both have had very good "Renewals in two different locations.
Be Well
Negg
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Right we I have decided if it has to be in the church then so be it lol but I need to sort out a photographer, flowers and cake any ideas where I can get these I just seem to be a bit stuck now ie people not getting back to me.
I am trying to sort it all out myself rather than paying a full package as were on a very tight budget its a secret shhhhhhhh lol
Grace x
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Hi Grace
Nice to hear someone else who wants to renew their vows. I am in the process of contacting Acharavi town hall to see if we can arrange a ceremony through them and maybe that can take place on the beach or even somewhere in the hotel as where we are staying have been very helpful and are prepared to accomodate what we need which is nice.
Even though we didnt want flowers etc someone recommended Lolla's photography and La Rose florist which are both in Acharavi.
Also a hairdresser that was recommended and that I have read of people using is a lady called Jackie her contact no is 0030 6974 912 913. She will come to where you are and apparantly she is a very busy lady! Lol.
I hope this all helps.
x
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Hi Sweetcheeks did you not get my pm? Viv
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sweetcheeks
the e300 fee is only payable if you got married in a church in the 1st place,if a registry office ,then its a donation to the church..or noula at san steph travel ,also does wedding arrangements,,,the florist in sidari is the best ,,,yammas
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Hiya
Viv I just got your message and have sent you a reply.
Kevin.g - thanks for the reply. I have spoke to the new chaplain at Holy Trinity and he has advised they only offer a Thanksgiving of marriage or a marriage blessing which are both 300 euros each. He said they dont do a renewal of vows as the vows are mean to be for life.
I advised we got married at ayia napa town hall and he has said a marriage blessing would be the ceremony we were after.
I have been on another few forums and it seems people are quite shocked at the cost to conduct the ceremony has shot up to 300 euros. I am now trying to get hold of Thinalion town hall as this is supposed to be the closest to roda and the mayor or registrar are able to conduct a renewal of vows ceremony so fingers crossed for that.
Thanks again for the reply
Shell
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hiya sweetcheeks,
the chaplain advised me the same as far as the service and fee are concerned and I've found out that the church isn't very nice so I've now come stuck again I'm hoping that's someone will email me back with regards to another venue. I managed to get hold of the florist I'm Corfu town who has given me a quote so that's done, how's things your side?
any ideas how to get hod of kassiopi town hall?
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I'm sorry darlings. Jen and me renew our vows every day we live. A few have watched it in Arillas. They call us love birds. We have done nearly 40 years together and we have no reason to renew anything.
Celebrating is another issue. Jen and I celebrate every time we think about Arillas. But we can do the boring bit listening to News 24 all night. Just think what you wake up to. Not too long now.
Sorry Dimitris, we will be your neghbours one day soon.
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Hi Grace
I am still waiting on the town hall in Thinalion to contact me back, not sure if this will happen or not though. Not too sure on Kassiopi town hall but I used this site to contact Corfu Town Hall and they then sent me the email address for Thinalion town hall..
Hope this helps.
Shell
x
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hi shell,
can you send me the info to contact Corfu town hall please and I will email them for information?
thanks
Grace x
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Sorry I totally meant to add the link in my las post!! Here is the Kassiopi one I found
http://www.gtp.gr/TDirectoryDetails.asp?id=12683
x
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Hiya Sweetcheeks,
I used the link to email them and it just returned my email :(
I have just had a read about the service that the Holy Trinity offer and there is loads of mention of god and thats what I don't want
HELP anyone?
Grace xx
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Hi Grace
You could try contacting Corfu Town Hall. I have not received a response from Thinalion town hall so looks like the renewal wont be able to go ahead as we wanted. I have emailed corfu town hall to see if they can help anymore as I am not sure where to go next.
Hope you get things sorted at your end.
Shell
x
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Sorry guys Ive got to say it.
You are talking to Chaplains and Churches but you dont want to talk about God???
Corfu is mostly Greek Orthodox and Im guessing your not so they would be unhelpful, unless one of you is Catholic the Roman Catholic Church cant help you, so you are looking for an Anglical or similarly liberal religion on an Island with only 100,000 people. Church choices would be extremely limited.
The renewals you are seeking carry no weight with the Church if you are already married but they might be persuaded to Marry you in the eyes of the Church and God if you were practicing their faith and previously married in a civil service only or bless your union under the same terms.
If you are not looking to enter into a Civil Marriage contract in Greece or anywhere else, Im not clear what a Greek Civil Servant would precide over?
It seems unlikely you will get anybody in Civil office to do it and if you dont want a mention of God then what kind of Priest will help? Im reminded of Joey in Friends finding something on line empowering him to be a minister for a wedding.
I can only offer advice on the mainstream Christian Religions. Scientology anybody?
Have you thought about finding a pretty spot and stating your vows amongst your closest family and friends? No reason this couldnt be as profoundly meaningful for you. It will be a lot less hassle. Luckily on Corfu there are no end of amazing spots.
Im all for this but hope a bit of Dutch Uncle might help.
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I woul of preferred not to have the ceremony in a church just because I didn't marry in a church in the first place it seemed a bit hypocritical to be honest. I want to do this because of my personal circumstances when we first got married. I would of preferred to make our vows again to each other anywhere but a church but we have no choice however the vows matter to me more than the venue
Grace
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Hi Grace
For someone without faith I cant understand why they would want to come to Church for a wedding because it would be just an old building filled with meaningless objects.
Hypocritical No, because the Church is always there to welcome you and not judgemental when you need it. However, to participate in the rituals of a faith you need to share its faith.
In faith, Marriage is a deeply religous union, for the most part for once and forever. Its considered a gift from God. Like baptism you only get to do it once because you cant keep asking for gifts!
Marriage is probably the only civil contract you cant renegotiate. Most contracts you can update or amend without breaking in law. However, as a Civil contract you either have it or divorce to break it.
I dont think you would be able to re-marry the same person without a divorce anywhere in the world. Actually this might be problematic for the juristiction of the marriage and under which Laws any future problems might be settled.
You can restate your vows in front of witnesses but I cant see any Civil Authority bringing legal authority to doing this.
However a blessing by the Church should be possible, either as a faith based marriage or a blessing if you share that faith.
Given that this isnt what you want I go back to the idea of restating your vows in front of friends and family as witnesses.
Dont know what else you can do.
Thought this might help people interested in getting married in Corfu. http://www.weddingchaos.co.uk/wedding-abroad/greek-wedding.asp
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Sorry
Just to add "renewal of vows" is a misnomer. You cannot renew a religious vow because its fundementally forever or under the gaze of the eternal. Thats why some faiths struggle with divorce as a concept.
You can ask for a Religous blessing. That might mean exchanging vows in front of a priest. However most religions do expect you to be part of that denomination. Church of England (Anglican) is probably as liberal as it gets but even then they might ask if at least one of you is baptised into the religion.
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I am not someone who doesnt believe in God as I have been dedicated to the church but for different reasons church wasnt an option for me when we originally got married in cyprus. Like Grace the vows mean more to me and our wedding day didnt go as planned because of our co ordinator and I was looking for a 'budget' way that we could make our anniversary special to us and after reading about other people who had renewed their vows for a smaller fee I contacted the church and the church if I am fair are very overpriced and if we were going to pay the 300 euros to them then I would rather have done it in my home town but that isnt what I wanted and for this reason I looked into other ways to renew vows and have read on other people renewing their vows at town halls and so this was the next port of call for us.
Hope this reads a bit better than what it does. Lol.
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Hi there
Its a blessing not a wedding! You might have to ask the right question. In the UK the civil bits of a Church wedding still cost £350. Additional hard costs might be for flowers, bell ringers and organists etc. but you would get asked to make a "donation" (not exactly voluntary) to use the Church on top of this.
I dont know what the going rate is for the "donation" but if its a nice Church (in demand) and you are not parishoners I think £350 would be quite cheap in the UK. I expect you might be asked a lot more here and a hotel wedding here would be way more.
Old buildings cost lots to upkeep. Thats one reason so many churches are being sold off in the UK.
Hope that helps.
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Your messages confuse me. Lol. A UK wedding in church near me would have cost less and a nice church.
I dont need no advice anyway as se4ems on hold but thanks.
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Sorry if I have confused you. Please let me know if I can unconfuse.
Found the following links which to back up what I know.
http://www.standrewschippenham.org.uk/WeddingsAtStAndrews.htm
http://www.askaboutmoney.com/showthread.php?t=22389
http://www.christchurchswindon.co.uk/PDFs/Wedding%20Pack.pdf
As I alluded to previously if you are a regular attendee at your local parish Church the tradition seems to be that the expectation is reduced for your donation.
I don't know how many Anglican Churches there are on Corfu. There certainly are very few Catholic churches and I think they are only in Corfu town.
Sorry if this isn't what you want to hear.
It's all very complicated. That's why we got married on a beach!
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Thanks for that. We were originally going to get married in our local methodist church, we dont attend at a church. But for certain reasons we got married in the amphitheatre at ayia napa town hall in cyprus. Would have loved the beach but the hotels who provided that were very overpriced. Basically me and hubby went abroad to get married alone and our families were happy with this but mother in law & partner turned up and it turned out our wedding co ordinator had arranged for them to be 'suprise' witnesses even though we told her no family and friends would be at our wedding due to so called fueds etc! This is why we were looking at renewing our vows when we go to corfu for our '2nd honeymoon'.
We were looking at renewing vows in corfu pref on the beach and so I contacted the church which had previously 'renewed' some couples on here vows but they no longer offer the 'donation' as a new chaplain has taken over but instead a fixed fee. I was then advised to contact local town hall as they can also offer renewal of vows via registrar or local ?mayor and so this is what my next step was as the hotel agreed to let us use their grounds for this but I have not received a response from the town hall I contacted and this is why it is no longer going ahead.
Thanks for your advice.
x
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Which Town Hall are you trying to contact?
Now the Mayor in Greece is a local funtion, which is not exactly the same as "Dick Wittington" Mayor of London.
Anybody know who the Mayor is in the Arillas area?
He might be the type of fella you could approach for this for a reasonable cost to bear witness to your vows. There won't be a legal component but I dont think a registrar will do this for the same reasons.
Know what you mean about family feuds. We uninvited family to our wedding. We told our friends and figured if they wanted they would work a way to come out to the Caribean. So hey presto my two best mates showed up and Mandys best.
We missed out on two sets of divorced parents playing politics with us in the middle.
We were the most relaxed people on our wedding day. Nobody could believe how chilled we were. Went for a walk, had breakfast, went reef Diving for an hour, lay in the sun, played water volleyball, had lunch, had a massage and got married on the beach at 3pm. Drank 8 bottles of Champagne courtesy of the Hotel DURING the ceremony!
Tanned, relaxed couple, with fantastic backdrop to the wedding photos.
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family issues also our problem they were all in attendance many years ago but hardly any of then agreed with the marriage due to our age and said it would last long but were celebrating a large anniversary next year so this is why it's important to me. I am willing to pay the 300 euros but like sweekcheeks didn't really want the church but I'm still struggling for a venue
I hope this makes sense
grace
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Hiya sweetcheeks,
I had an email back from a company who said they can officiate a renewal of vows ceremony anywhere for €250 can even be done on a beach. If you want the details let me know and I will send you the details :D
A Very Happy Grace
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Great news for you guys..... :) :D
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I'm sorry in advance if I upset yous who want to renew your commitment to each other. I think that charging 200 or 300 pounds or euros is ridiculous. Restating your promises should be free. Or only the expenses if you employ someone who helps you feel that it matters.
I have watched three of our forum family do that on the beach in Arillas. They have all gained from it and I applaud it.
But like I've said it before, you can renew your vows every day with nobody else looking. Alan and Jan do it, Jen and Phil do it, and so many others do it. Spend your money on romantic meals together in Thalassa, or Brouklis. Or at home together. Ceremonies are all very well but in the end it is your life together that matters. Nothing else.
Sorry folks, this is your philandjen. We will never change.
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I think your so right Phil, Pete and I had one of the nicest days we have had, but we didn't have to pay for it as the vicar only wanted his petrol from Corfu to Arillas and he wanted to do it for us. We had met him before as a friend and he and his good lady wife thought it was a nice thing to do for us. The best part of the day was having our friends with us to share it. Niether of us would have paid the silly prices that are mentioned here because like you & Jen we renew our love with every new day and new experiance that we share together. All that said the memories of that day will never fade. Love Viv
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Thanks for the replies. Grace I had spoken to a company already but I think the cost that high is not worth it really. We are going to go and celebrate our anniversary with a nice meal together and just have a jolly good hol. Lol. We are staying in Roda. We will renew our vows when we can afford to instead of breaking our pockets to pay the 250-300 euros. Lol.
Thanks again.
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Hi Sweetcheck's I bet you will enjoy it just as much and im sure the meal will be very romantic. Viv