Barnstaple church goes from 'I Do' to disco extravaganza

A Barnstaple church has served as the setting for a unique wedding celebration that transitioned from sacred ceremony to lively reception.

Couple Jeremy and Molly Surtees exchanged vows on September 30, 2023, at Holy Trinity Church in Barnstaple, before transforming the space into a disco venue for their evening festivities.

Holy Trinity Church Barnstaple’s Parochial Church Council (PCC) gave the green light for the reception to be held in the church, including allowing alcoholic drinks to be served.

During the day, the church served as the venue for a religious ceremony. However, by night, it underwent a transformation into a disco, complete with a dance floor. 

Outside in the churchyard, guests enjoyed a hog roast dinner, and inside, the wedding cake awaited. 

The Surtees, who reside in Southampton, chose the church where Molly had spent her childhood as the backdrop for their special day.

“I’ve always wanted a church wedding and to be surrounded by church family, along with friends and family. It was important for me to have God at the heart of our wedding,” Molly said. 

The couple's decision was based on their shared Christian faith and emotional connection to the venue.

Jeremy said, “Having the ceremony in the church was always the plan. It saved us a lot of money, and was a very convenient way of celebrating.”

As the afternoon ceremony unfolded, guests witnessed a traditional exchange of vows, prayers, and a sermon delivered by the Vicar.

Following the ceremony, the church underwent a remarkable change, with volunteers swiftly converting the space into a vibrant reception venue with autumnal decorations and twinkling lights. 

The transition went from sacred to celebratory, as guests enjoyed a lively evening of dancing and merriment under the same roof where the couple had just moments before pledged their love.

Molly said “Our vicar was amazing, always there to answer questions and very supportive of any decisions we made.”

Jeremy added,”Of course our vicar gave us an outline of the service, however we put our own stamp on it; instead of processing out of the church, as soon as the register had been signed we had a time of worship (Christian songs).”

When asked about hosting the ceremony and disco in a church, Molly enthusiastically remarked, "Go for it! It was the best decision we ever made."