The Civil Wedding Ceremony

A civil ceremony must not contain any religious element, including hymns or other religious music. You can add favourite music, songs and readings without any religious reference, and you would still he able to use some of the popular bridal marches. An advance copy of any readings and songs that you would like to use should be given to your registrar so that they can be approved and included at the relevant points.

It should be noted that any music or readings to be used during the ceremony are often subject to copyright regulations. Check with the venue that you have chosen, to ensure that they have a licence to cover yourself against any breaches of copyright.

To be lawful, the marriage ceremony must include statutory declaratory and contracting statements, such as:

Declaratory Words

"I do solemnly declare
that I know not of any lawful impediment
why I, (name),
may not be joined in matrimony
to (partner's name)"

or

"I declare that I know of no legal reason
why I, (name),
may not be joined in marriage
to (partner's name)"

or by replying 'I am' to the question

"Are you, (name),
free lawfully to marry (partner's name)?"

Contracting Words

"I call upon these persons here present,
to witness that I, (name),
do take thee, (partner's name)
to be my lawful wedded husband (or wife)."

Or

"I, (name), take you, (partner's name)
to be my lawful wedded husband (or wife)."

Or

"I, (name), take thee, (partner's name)
to be my wedded husband (or wife)."

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