What is the purpose of marriage banns and how do they relate to the process of getting married?

Marriage banns are public announcements made by a church or government to inform the community of an upcoming marriage. The purpose of marriage banns is to allow time for any legal or moral objections to be raised before the marriage takes place. This process helps ensure that the marriage is valid and that there are no impediments to the union. In some places, marriage banns are a legal requirement before a marriage can be solemnized.