Choosing if you would like a marriage or civil partnership will be your first decision. Visit GOV.UK to understand the legal and financial differences between marriage and civil partnership.
There are differences in these options too.
Marriage ceremony
In a marriage ceremony, you will need to say certain vows when you solemnise your marriage.
A civil marriage ceremony at a register office or licensed venue
Civil marriages are available for both opposite sex couples and same sex couples. If this is your preferred option, continue to step 2: choose your perfect ceremony venue, or if you have already chosen a venue, please continue to step 3: choose your bespoke ceremony option.
A religious ceremony at a church or other religious building
If this is your preferred option, you should contact the minister or other person in charge. Please see our web page: Marriage in a church or other religious building, for more information.
Civil partnership
A civil partnership is available for both opposite and same sex couples.
A civil partnership signing with a ceremony
A civil partnership signing with a ceremony, can be held at either a licensed venue or a register office. If this is your preferred option, continue to step 2: choose your perfect ceremony venue, or if you have already chosen a venue, please continue to step 3: choose your bespoke ceremony option.
A simple signing of your civil partnership document without a ceremony
A simple signing of your civil partnership document without a ceremony, can be held at either a licensed venue or a register office. If this is your preferred option, please our web page: Civil partnership with a simple signing only, for more information and how to book.