Civil Ceremony  

A civil wedding ceremony can be held in any registry office in England or Wales or in any other venue licensed to conduct the marriage ceremony under the Marriage Act. These venues include hotels, stately homes, castles or restaurants. By law the ceremony must not contain any music or readings of a religious nature.  The ceremony is conducted by the Superintendent Registrar or a deputy at an arranged time between the hours of 8am to 6pm.

You must give notice of your intention to marry at your local registry office at least 15 days before the ceremony. Two other people must attend the ceremony to act as witnesses and sign the marriage register.   

You will also need to pay a small fee and show the Superintendent Registrar documentary evidence of your: 

·         Name (take your birth certificate along) 

·         Age (written consent for under 18 years) 

·         Nationality (e.g. passport) 

·         Evidence of your address (driving licence or a utility bill) 

·         Evidence of the ending of any previous marriage or civil partnership 

The notice of your intention to marry will be posted at the registry office for 15 days to enable anyone to raise any legal objection.  Following this period you will be legally able to hold your civil ceremony within 12 months. 

Guide to the Order of a Civil Ceremony

• Assembly of wedding party and guests
• Bride’s entrance
• The Registrar will then explain the legal aspects of marriage
• Both bride and groom declare they are legally free to marry
• The exchange of vows and rings
• Bride, groom and two witnesses sign the register
• The married couple lead their wedding party out to celebrate

Costs of a Civil Wedding 

• To give notice of intent to marry                         £30 per person
• Registration of marriage                                      £40
• Marriage or civil partnership certificate                     £3.50