Allowing any adult couple of any sexual orientation, who
cannot marry for legal reasons, to celebrate their formal
commitment to each other without a legal marriage.
What is a Commitment Ceremony?
Commitment ceremonies are for any adult couple of any sexual
orientation who wish to celebrate their formal commitment to each
other without undergoing a legal marriage or cannot marry for legal
reasons. You can elect for a ceremony with guests or for a
private occasion with just the couple in attendance.
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Do these ceremonies have any legal status?
No, they are purely ceremonial. They should not be confused
with any form of legal marriage and they are not legally binding on
those who participate.
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Where can these ceremonies be held?
They can be held at some Suffolk Register Offices or any of the 60
plus approved venues in Suffolk. Subject to County approval it
may be possible for these ceremonies to be held at other
locations. This would be totally at the discretion of the
Superintendent Registrar responsible for the District and subject
to a non-refundable inspection fee of £50.
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What does the ceremony include?
The ceremony can be personalised according to your requirements.
There are opportunities to include readings, exchange rings or
gifts and to make personal vows of commitment to each other. A
souvenir certificate is presented to the couple at the end of the
ceremony.
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How long is the ceremony?
This will depend on the elements you wish to include. We
suggest you allow approximately 30 minutes.
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How much will it cost?
Prices 1st April 2008 - 31st March 2009
- Monday to Thursday £170.00
- Friday and Saturday £190.00
- Sunday and Bank Holiday £220.00
Prices 1st April 2009 - 31st March 2010
- Monday to Thursday £180.00
- Friday and Saturday £200.00
- Sunday and Bank Holiday £230.00
This fee includes an optional planning meeting with the
celebrant who will conduct the ceremony. A £50 deposit is payable
when booking.
If you have your commitment ceremony at an approved venue you may
also have to pay a hire charge.
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How can I arrange a ceremony?
For a ceremony at a Register Office - contact the office to make
the arrangements.
For a ceremony at an approved venue you should contact the venue
and also the local Register Office for that area.
General enquiries about commitment ceremonies can be made to any
Suffolk Register Office or email:
enquiries@registrars.suffolkcc.gov.uk.
These ceremonies are offered as a partnership between Suffolk
County Council and Civil Ceremonies Limited
http://www.civilceremonies.co.uk/.
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