CIVIL PARTNERSHIPS: A TYPICAL CEREMONY

Introduction by the Registrar

The purpose of the gathering and of what is about to happen will be explained by the Registrar – they may also take this opportunity to remind guests about rules surrounding photography, videography, confetti and to switch any mobile phones or pagers onto silent.

The Declarations

The Registrar will then ask the couple to stand and to confirm that they are legally free to enter into a Civil Partnership and the couple will then declare that they are taking one another as Civil Partners – the following words, or similar versions thereof, may be used:

‘I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I <Name> may not register a Civil Partnership with <Name>’.

This would be said by both partners who would then both go on to say the following words, or similar versions thereof:

‘I understand that on signing the Civil Partnership Schedule that I, <Name>, will be forming a Civil Partnership with <Name>.'

Reading/Music

For those couples looking to include a reading or piece of music, this point in the ceremony provides the first real opportunity to do so. As you will have already gathered, you will need to confirm with your Registrar prior to the day that both this slot in the Service and the reading/piece of music that you have in mind are suitable but once approval is gained it is at this point that your chosen guest or professional performer will take centre stage. For some ideas on readings and music, check out the articles entitled Music, Songs and Readings.