What the registrar will ask
You will both be asked to confirm:
- your full name, age, occupation and address
- your parents’ full names and occupations
- whether your parents are alive
This information is used for the official record and must be correct.
Witnesses
You must have two witnesses.
Your witnesses:
- can be friends or family
- must understand what is happening
- must be able to watch the ceremony and sign the record
- should be aged 18 or over
A witness can be under 18 if they understand the ceremony and can sign the record.
The registration service cannot provide witnesses.
Interpreters
You must arrange an interpreter if you or your witnesses do not understand spoken English.
Contact the register office in advance.
Tell us:
- the language you need
- whether it is for your notice appointment or your ceremony
- your ceremony date and venue
Signing the marriage or civil partnership record
After the ceremony:
- the registrar will ask you to check your details
- you must check carefully — mistakes can cost extra to correct
- you, your partner and your witnesses will sign the schedule
Your details are added to the electronic register.