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Legal preliminaries

Both the bride and groom are legally required to give a notice of marriage, in person, to a superintendent registrar at the register office in the area where each of them lives.

A notice of marriage is a legal statement showing the bride and groom's personal and family details, and the name of the marriage venue.

The minimum period of residence prior to giving notice is seven days.

The bride and groom may attend either together or individually, whichever is more convenient. Please telephone to make an appointment. These can be made Monday to Friday, 9-5.

For contact details please see the local register office information page.

Fees are payable for:

  • notice of marriage
  • attendance of registration staff at the ceremony, this may include a rehearsal or pre-marriage meeting
  • marriage certificate(s).

Documents required will include:

  • passports or birth certificates
  • divorce decree absolute
  • certificates or other documentation to confirm marital status, nationality, residence and names.

When the two notices of marriage have been given, the bride and groom must wait 15 clear days before the marriage can take place. The marriage should then take place within one year, otherwise fresh notices of marriage will need to be given. For example, if the notices of marriage are given by a bride and groom on 1st June 2002, the couple can be married on or after 17th June 2002 and until 1st June 2003.

If you are unsure about any of these issues or would like further advice please contact us on 08458 247 400.

For more information, Q&As, and photos visit our dedicated ceremonies website (link opens in a new window).

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