Day, date and time of marriage should be set as far in advance as possible to allow for marriage preparation classes and other arrangements to be made. Setting of date, etc. should be made by the engaged couple. It should only be made with a priest. Parish secretaries are not permitted to make arrangements.

The “Common Policy,” which is in effect for all of New Jersey, requires every couple to prepare at least one year in advance. During that time, each couple is to attend six preparation sessions; three of which are with the officiating priest and three by attending either Pre-Cana or registering for the Preparing to Live in Love program.  http://www.livinginlove.org/Engaged_Couples.htm 

A marriage usually takes place in the parish of the bride, but it may also take place in the parish of the groom. When one party is not of the Catholic faith, the parish of the Catholic party is the usual place for the Sacrament. Should there be special reasons to be married in the church of another Christian denomination; permission must be granted by the Bishop well in advance of the date.

You are free to choose any of the priests from our parish, a priest-relative, or a priest who is a close personal friend to preside at your Marriage Celebration. In all cases, a priest of the parish where the marriage is to take place should be consulted first. The priest presiding at your marriage should be contacted a year in advance to complete all the pre-marriage forms and arrangements. When one party is not of the Catholic faith, a minister of that faith may be invited to be a part of the celebration. A PRIEST NOT OF THE PARISH MUST PRESENT A LETTER FROM HIS BISHOP.