Registrar Weddings: What To Expect

A registrar wedding, also known as a civil ceremony, is a non-religious, legally binding marriage ceremony. It is conducted by a registrar, who is employed by the local authority and responsible for registering births, marriages, and deaths. The ceremony usually takes place at a registry office, which is a government building where births, deaths, adoptions, civil partnerships, and marriages are registered.

The process for a registrar wedding typically involves giving notice at your local registry office, which involves providing proof of identity, age, and nationality, and paying a fee. On the day of the wedding, the couple meets with the registrar to confirm their details and intentions. The ceremony is then conducted by the registrar, who leads the couple through their vows and the exchange of rings. The couple and their witnesses then sign the marriage register, making the marriage official.

Registrar weddings are a popular choice for couples who want a non-religious, budget-friendly, or more intimate wedding. They offer flexibility in terms of location, allowing couples to choose from various approved venues or even get married abroad.

The registrar will meet with the couple to confirm their details and intentions

The registrar will meet with the couple before the ceremony to confirm their details and intentions. This usually takes place 40 minutes before the ceremony begins and the couple will be seen separately so that they don't see each other beforehand. The registrar will double-check all the details provided when the couple gave notice, including their identity, nationality, home address, and that they are free to marry each other. Any major changes, such as a name change, should be communicated to the registrar at this time. The couple will also be walked through everything that will happen during the ceremony.

During this pre-ceremony interview, the registrar will confirm that the couple intends to get married and go through the format of the ceremony, including the legal wording of the script. The registrar is not allowed to deviate from the legal wording and no religious references or spiritual elements can be included in the service. The registrar will also confirm the time of the ceremony, as they may have another ceremony to get to and will need to keep to the specified time.

The registrar will also explain the legal process of the wedding, including the signing of the marriage schedule or marriage document. The couple will need to bring two witnesses who will also sign the document at the time of the marriage. The registrar will explain that the witnesses must be adults who understand what is going on and are not distracted by taking pictures or looking after children.

The registrar will also confirm the details of any additional elements of the ceremony, such as readings, songs, or music. These must not include anything religious and the registrar may have specific criteria for what is and isn't allowed during the ceremony. The couple should also discuss any photography requests with the registrar, as there may be restrictions on where and when photos can be taken.

The couple will exchange vows

> "I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I (…) may not be joined in matrimony to (…).”

> "I declare that I know of no legal reason why I (…) may not be joined in marriage to (…).”

> "I call upon these persons, here present, to witness that I (…) do take thee (…) to be my lawful wedded wife/husband."

> "I (…), take you (…) to be my wedded wife/husband."

> "I (…) take thee (…) to be my wedded wife/husband."

The vows are usually exchanged after a short statement about marriage from the Superintendent Registrar. Rings can also be exchanged at this point.

The couple will exchange rings

The exchanging of rings is a significant part of a wedding ceremony. It symbolises the couple's commitment to each other and their union as one. The rings are placed on each other's fingers, and the couple says a few words to express their love. The ring exchange usually follows the vows, crystallising the promises made as a visual symbol.

There are several steps to a meaningful ring exchange. Firstly, decide who will hold the rings during the ceremony. This could be the best man, maid of honour, a family member, or even a dog! Secondly, choose where the ring exchange will take place in the ceremony script. It usually flows best after the vows, with any rituals taking place in between. Thirdly, check that the ring keeper has the rings before the ceremony begins.

When it is time for the ring exchange, the wedding officiant will introduce this part of the ceremony with a reflection on the significance of the rings. They will then prompt the ring keeper to come forward with the rings. The ring keeper will give the ring to the groom or partner 1, who will place it on partner 2's finger. It is important to wait until the ring is on before moving on to the next step. Finally, partner 1 will seal the ring exchange with a few words, such as "I give you this ring as a symbol of my ongoing commitment to you". These steps are then repeated for partner 2.

The ring exchange is a special moment in the wedding ceremony, symbolising the couple's everlasting dedication to each other. It is a tradition that has been practised for thousands of years and is an important visual reminder of the vows made.

The registrar will declare the couple married

The registrar will then invite the couple to sign the marriage register, which makes their marriage legal and official. The couple will be joined by their two witnesses, who will also sign the register. While this is happening, music will play to entertain the guests.

The registrar will then announce that the ceremony is over and invite the guests to join the couple for a wedding breakfast or reception. The couple will then leave the venue to more music and head outside for more photographs.

The registrar will also send the signed marriage schedule or document to the local register office, where it will be added to the marriage register. The couple can then obtain their marriage certificate.

The couple will sign the register, making the marriage official

The signing of the register is the moment when the marriage becomes official and legally binding. The couple will sign the register, or the marriage schedule, in the presence of the registrar and their two witnesses. The witnesses must be adults who understand what is happening and are not distracted by taking photos or looking after children. The couple will also be asked to check the information in the entry is correct before signing, as it is long-winded to sort out any errors after the fact.

The marriage schedule is an important but unassuming-looking document. After the couple has signed, their two witnesses will also sign. Once everyone has signed, there may be an opportunity for posed photos with the register and marriage certificate. The registrar will then offer their congratulations and depart.

The marriage certificate is usually sent to the couple a few days after the ceremony, as part of the fee they paid to the registrar. If the wedding takes place at a religious building, the document must be delivered to the local register office so that the marriage can be registered. The couple will then need to apply for the certificate themselves.

Frequently asked questions