How to become a Licensed Venue for Civil Marriage and Civil Partnership
11. General guidance
Acoustics
If the room is large enough to require it, a microphone and amplification should be provided for use by the registration staff, the couple and any other person who is to give a reading to ensure that all the guests hear the ceremony.
Fees
A fee is payable by the couple for the attendance of the Registration staff. This is paid by the couple direct to the East Sussex Ceremonies team at the time of booking. See our current licence fees.
Flowers
Flower arrangements will be at the discretion of the couple and the venue. Please ensure that any table arrangements allow for the accommodation of the Register and accompanying paper work.
Music
Couples may choose whether or not to have music for their ceremony and a music system should be available for them with either a member of your staff or one of the guests operating it or, if available, space to accommodate musicians. All music must be secular and the registration staff will make the final decision where necessary.
Photographs
Photographs taken during the ceremony are at the request of the couple but cannot include photographs of the legal Register entry. Any reasonable request by Registration staff regarding the taking of photographs should be adhered to.
Ushers
A member of staff should be available, where appropriate, to close the doors after the entrance of the bride and to open them as the bride and groom depart at the end of the ceremony.
Videos
Videos taken during the ceremony are at the discretion of couple but cannot include footage of the legal Register entry. Any reasonable request by Registration staff regarding filming should be adhered to.
Water & tissues
It is very helpful for nervous couples and for registration staff to have a carafe of water, four glasses and a box of tissues provided in the Interview Room and in the Ceremony Room.
Apply to license a venue
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