Civil ceremonies can be either a marriage or civil partnership and include readings, songs or music, but must not include anything religious.
You can have a civil ceremony at a registry office or any venue approved by the council, such as a stately home or hotel.
Marriage or civil partnership
Choosing if you would like a marriage or civil partnership will be your first consideration.
View similarities and differences between civil partnership and marriage.
Marriage ceremony
A marriage ceremony is for both opposite-sex and same-sex couples, and you must say certain vows when you solemnise your marriage.
If you choose to have a civil marriage ceremony, you can have it at either a licensed venue or a registry office.
Civil partnership
A civil partnership does not need to include a ceremony and is for both opposite-sex couples and same-sex couples.
A civil partnership is formed when the couple signs a civil partnership document in front of the registrar and two witnesses.
If you choose to have a civil partnership with a ceremony, you can have it at either a licensed venue or a registry office.
Religious ceremony
A religious wedding/marriage can take place at any registered religious building. You will need to contact the church to arrange the ceremony.
If you are interested in getting married in a church or religious building, please review the information on marriage in a church or other religious building.
You will not need a registrar at a religious ceremony unless your church asks you to contact us to arrange one.