Do you perform Gay Marriages? Of course we do! Metropolitan Community Churches have been doing Gay Marriages for over 30 years and are happy to help you celebrate your love for one another. We know God recognizes our marriages. Recently the State of California decided to recognize them too! What to do now? First, educate yourself about California Marriages—these unions do not carry any Federal rights, and some may wish to postpone these legal ceremonies. www.eqca.org

General Information

But, we are already married! Many gay and lesbian couples have already celebrated their unions a long time ago. Congratulations, we really like a good love story, and we want to hear yours! We can perform "renewal of vows" ceremonies for those who have a valid marriage certificate from an MCC or other affirming faith community.

Getting a license to wed: To have a legal civil marriage you must present a marriage license. In San Mateo County this is available at the County Clerk-Recorders office, 555 County Center, First Floor, Redwood City, CA 94063. You can get your marriage license in most counties of California and do not need to be a California Resident to get a license (some counties are resisting so call ahead). You ceremony does not need to be performed in the same county you get your license from. It is recommended that couples fill out some of the paperwork in advance: www.smcare.org

The ceremony: Every ceremony is created by the Clergy and participants, and is unique. It tells the story of your love and commitment. We do short, long, funny, serious, casual or dressy, in our worship space or in your space. We really are quite flexible. Legal ceremonies require at least one, and preferably two witnesses in addition to the clergy and couple. Faith: Most people who choose a church for their ceremony have some type of spiritual connection to the world, we are open to mixed faith couples, and will work with you to honor your perception of God, as you understand God, in your lives.

Church Rental*: The Church space is suitable for up to 60 guests and rents for $100.00 the first hour and $50.00 per hour afterwards, and a cleaning deposit may be required. The wedding party is responsible for set-up and clean-up. The rent is paid to: College Heights Church UCC (we do not own our own space). The final pricing and agreement is between you and College Heights. This space is very sweet, with great views, and has capacity to do a reception in the same area with some planning. (1150 W. Hillsdale Blvd, San Mateo). We are happy to do your ceremony in other locations.

Musician*: Our musician is very talented and is happy to help you select live music for your ceremony. If it is an in-house ceremony the rates range from $100.00 to 300.00 depending upon the amount of music and degree of preparation. If your wedding is in another facility the rates are higher due to travel and more preparation.

Clergy*: We have a number of clergy who may be available to help you with your wedding planning and ceremony. If it is an in-house ceremony our rates range from $250.00 - $500.00, dependent upon the size of the event and the length of the ceremony. Most average size ceremonies (20 - 60 people) are $300.00. If your ceremony is in another facility the rates may be higher, as well as couples needing any pre-marital counseling or multiple planning sessions. One planning session is included. The rates may be lower for those who are "renewing vows" in an abbreviated format.

How do we start? Contact our Pastor, Rev. Terri Echelbarger at revterri@peninsulamcc.org with the dates you are considering and to start a conversation about being married by MCC Clergy.

*If you have extenuating circumstances in your life and need to discuss the fees please let us know about your situation. There are no charges for Members of PMCC (at least 6 months) for ceremonies; it is a part of our covenant together.