Enhanced marriage ceremony

This may take place in the Drake ceremony room at the Register Office or a licensed room at an approved premises.

The Registrar will require to see both parties to the marriage prior to the ceremony either together or separately. This is to ensure that all details for the ceremony are correct and that all legal formalities have been completed.

There will be opportunity for photographs as the bridal party enter the marriage room.

Ceremony

The Superintendent Registrar will say the preliminary announcements and a few passages about marriage.

You will be required to say one form of declaration and one form of marriage contract out loud in the presence of two witnesses plus the Superintendent Registrar and the Registrar.

You may ask a guest to present a reading or piece of poetry or you have a selection of promises to choose from or match together which can be said when you exchange wedding rings.

The Superintendent Registrar will say a few closing words and announce that you are husband and wife.

You will then be asked to sign the marriage register.

There will be photo opportunities following the signing of the register in the ceremony room and in the garden.

Cost

Before a marriage can take place both the bride and groom must first give notice of their intention to marry to the Superintendent Registrar in the district in which they live.

• Drake Ceremony Room and garden facilities, 30 minute booking - £101
• Drake Ceremony Room and garden facilities, 45 minute booking, plus additional time - £137
• Approved Premises - £293

Marriage certificates are £3.50 each.