Commitment ceremony

These ceremonies are for couples who wish to formally celebrate their relationship and commitment to each other. It is a unique and personal ceremony appropriate for couples who have decided to make a lifelong commitment to each other such as an engagement or for those who are unable or do not wish to enter a marriage contract.

It is sometimes particularly relevant to those who have been through a period which put a strain on their relationship, but wish to celebrate their renewed commitment to each other. Same sex couples may wish to link their Civil Partnership Registration to a commitment ceremony.

Any couple, over the age of 16 years, can arrange a ceremony. It does not matter if you do not live in Plymouth, you can still arrange to have your ceremony here.

Once you have chosen the venue for your celebration, and booked the celebrant you will be asked to pay a deposit to confirm your booking. On receipt of your deposit, the celebrant will provide you with a booklet of choices for your ceremony.

The booklet will help you to develop a ceremony unique to yourselves. The ceremony can incorporate readings, poetry and music which is special to you. Friends and family can take part, or it can be a simple ceremony for just the two of you.

The ceremony is put together by you! Just as no two people are the same, no two ceremonies will ever be the same.

Sample order of service

• Introduction and welcome
• Readings or a speech by a special guest
• Vows or promises
• Exchange of rings
• Signing of the certificate
• Closing words

The ceremony will be conducted by a celebrant from the Plymouth City Council Register Office who will follow the choices that you make for your ceremony. You will be led through the ceremony, repeating words after the celebrant or making personal vows to each other.

Fees

Fees for  commitment ceremonies can be found on the register office fees page. It requires a non-refundable deposit of £30 to secure the booking. A further fee is payable prior to the day of your ceremony, the amount dependant on which day you have chosen.

[Back to top]