Marriage Ceremonies

Before the ceremony a Registrar will check the details given at the time of notice are still correct, as this information will be recorded in the register and on your marriage certificate. You have the option of doing this together or separately.

The Superintendent Registrar will begin by welcoming you and your guests followed by the traditional marriage ceremony introduction.

From then on, using the checklist and guide that will be provided to you after you have given notice, you can design the ceremony as you please. There are certain words, which must be included by law, (the Declaration and the Contract) but even here there is an element of choice.

During the ceremony you may have someone recite a reading or a poem. Look out in the guide for the 'A reading can be included here......' note as an indicator for when a reading or poem would best fit into your ceremony.  Any readings or poems need to be submitted to the Ceremonies Section at least one month before the ceremony so that we can check its suitability (e.g. no religious content).

If your ceremony is in the Pankhurst Suite you are welcome to have music played during the bride's entrance and during the signing of the register. We have a selection of traditional wedding tracks but may not have your choice, so feel free to bring your own CD, MP3 player with docking station or arrange 'live' music. Please note that the music cannot be religious in nature.

At approved premises you will need to liaise with the management about the availability and facilities for music.