The marriage ceremony

This is your special day and there is no need to be nervous or worried about the ceremony the Registrars are there to help and guide you through it all.

There are words prescribed by law which you must say to declare that you are free lawfully to marry and contract your marriage.

There are three choices of the declaratory words and contracting vows.

You will be asked to choose one set of words from each list below before the day. You cannot mix these words with any others.

Below are the three declaratory words

• “I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I, (your full name), may not be joined in matrimony to (your partner’s full name)”
• “I declare that I know of no legal reason why I, (your full name), may not be joined in marriage to (your partner’s full name)”
• by replying “I am” to the question “Are you, (your full name) free lawfully to marry (your partner’s full name)”?

If you would like to make additional vows to each other, we are happy to discuss this with you.

We can provide you with examples of extra vows or you may wish to create your own. Please ensure the Registrar has seen these words before the ceremony.

Any personal words or vows cannot be religious or have any connection with a religious marriage ceremony.

Below are the three vows

• “I call upon these persons here present to witness that I (your full name), do take thee, (your partner’s full name) to be my lawful wedded wife/husband”
• “I, (your full name), take you (your partner’s full name) to be my wedded wife/ husband”
• “I, (your full name), take thee (your partner’s full name) to be my wedded wife/ husband”

During the ceremony the Registrar will prepare a document known as the Marriage Schedule which you will be asked to check carefully.

You, your witnesses and the Registrars must then sign the schedule. A commemorative certificate for your marriage, with no legal standing may be presented on the day.

This is dependent on the type of ceremony you have chosen. The legal marriage certificate will be sent to you by post afterwards. The ceremony will last up to half an hour.

When thinking about the number of guests that you will invite, please consider the size of the room and check that everyone will be able to hear the Registrar.

We want all guests to be able to enjoy the ceremony and if you think that this may be a problem, please speak to your venue about this.