Your big day has arrived...
We want your special day to run smoothly and for everyone to enjoy themselves.
Timing is crucial
It is very important that we keep to the start time confirmed for your ceremony. For this to happen we ask that you and your guests arrive 15 minutes before the start time.
In order to accurately record your personal details on the marriage schedule, the registrar will speak with you individually prior to the start of the ceremony to verify the correct information. The registrar will also ask you to check the details before you each sign the schedule. It is important that you check this information very carefully, since mistakes found later will incur a considerable cost to correct. Therefore, one of you will be seen 15 minutes, and the other 10 minutes, before the ceremony is due to start. If you do not wish to see each other before the ceremony so that you can have the traditional bridal entrance, please let us know.
It is your responsibility to ensure that all guests are aware of our expectations and have prior knowledge of where the venue is situated.
Your ceremony should start at the appointed time unless there are exceptional circumstances where we have been informed of the change and it has been agreed by us.
Should you arrive late it may not be possible to conduct your ceremony that day, since your registrars will most likely have to attend subsequent ceremonies.
Witnesses
Your civil ceremony must be witnessed throughout by two people who can speak and understand English and who are fully aware of the nature and meaning of the ceremony.
Conventionally, a witness should be over the age of 16. The Registration service is not able to provide witnesses for you - they must be your witnesses and should be known to you.
Recording your special day
We are happy for you to video record your special day. Please discuss this with the Registration team on the day.
Signing the schedule
At the end of the ceremony the registrar will ask each of you to check the information recorded on the schedule very carefully to ensure it is correct. Any details found to be incorrect after the signing is complete will require a formal and lengthy correction procedure, as well as a fee of £90 for the Registrar General to consider your application.
Remember...
Our friendly and committed staff are here to guide you through the planning and legalities of your big day. We are always happy to answer queries, give support throughout the whole process.