Personalising your ceremony
Have your day, your way with Ceremonies in East Sussex. We want your ceremony to be a truly meaningful and memorable experience that you'll cherish for years to come, which is why we encourage you to add personal elements.
Please note, the law does not allow the inclusion of religious content in a civil marriage or a civil partnership ceremony, additions must also remain solemn and dignified in nature.
All additions must be approved by the Ceremonies Hub before your ceremony. Details about the ways you can personalise your ceremony can be found below.
Music
Music is a key element for setting the tone of your ceremony. Your music choices are a reflection of you and your relationship, whatever you choose, your selections tell your story and make your ceremony that bit more personal.
Music is usually played at three key moments during a ceremony.
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On your entrance
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The signing of the schedule
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Your exit
Readings
A reading is a simple yet powerful way to make your ceremony reflective of who you are as a couple. They can provide a moment for you and your guests to pause and reflect on the meaning of love, and your commitment to one another.
This could be a poem, an extract from your favourite book or film, or perhaps something someone has written especially for you both.
Asking a friend or family member to read is a great way of including them in your special day and creating a wonderfully personal moment.
Personal vows
Personal vows are the perfect way to express what your partner means to you and to make promises unique to your relationship, creating a truly special and treasured moment.
Personal vows will be said in addition to the legal marriage vows or the legal civil partnership declaration.
Ceremony preparation guide
Once you have booked your ceremony and have both given notice, we will email you a link to our ceremony preparation guides. These guides contain all the essential information you need to know for your big day - Ceremony preparation guides.
Once you've read the relevant guide you'll then need to complete the ceremony options form. This form is where you'll select your ceremony preferences and let us know of any personal elements you'd like to include.
All forms must be submitted to the Ceremonies Hub for approval at least one month before your ceremony.
Ceremony personalisation appointment
Personalisation appointments allow you the opportunity to meet with a registrar to finalise the details of the ceremony. You'll be able to discuss and complete the options form, deciding on personal additions, such as, readings, and music.
These appointments take place at a register office with one of our experienced registrars. This may not be the same registrar who conducts your ceremony, but they will be able to help you with your preparations and answer any questions you have.
A fee is payable for this appointment.
To book an appointment contact the Ceremonies Hub:
Phone: 0345 60 80 198
Questions
Please contact us if you have any questions
Phone: 0345 60 80 198