At Hartlepool Registration Service, we’re proud to help couples create a ceremony that reflects their unique story.
If you’re getting married or forming a civil partnership in the Middlegate Room or at an approved venue, you can personalise your ceremony using our ceremony choices form.
The link to the form will be emailed to you one month before your ceremony.
While planning your ceremony you may wish to consider:
‘Unplugged’ ceremonies and social media
You may want to:
- ask guests not to take photos during the ceremony
- request that photos aren’t shared on social media straight away
If so, the registrar can make an announcement before the ceremony begins. You may also want to include this request on your invitations.
Music
Music adds a personal touch to your ceremony. You can include music at these key moments:
- while guests are arriving
- during your entrance
- while signing the schedule and taking photos
- as you exit
Religious music, including hymns, cannot be used in civil ceremonies.
Using recorded music
- create a playlist on a smart device (phone or tablet)
- download the music in advance
- the registrar will provide a Bluetooth speaker
- appoint someone from your party to manage the music
Using live music
Check with your venue about space and equipment such as amplifiers.
If no music is provided, the registrar will play classical music.
Promises
You can choose from three promise options on the ceremony choices form, or write your own.
Religious wording, including vows from religious ceremonies, cannot be included in civil ceremonies.
Readings
Readings are a great way to involve friends or family. You could choose:
- a poem
- a book passage
- song lyrics
- a custom-written piece
Religious readings are not allowed in civil ceremonies.
You can find inspiration by searching online for “readings for civil ceremonies.”