Commitment Ceremonies

The introduction of civil partnerships in 2005 gave couples the opportunity and choice to hold their celebrations in the same venues available for all civil marriages. Unlike civil marriages though, the act of signing the civil partnership register forms the legal aspect of the union. There is no legal requirement for an actual ceremony and, any religious inclusion or reference is prohibited.

So, how can you create a meaningful celebration that includes all the elements that mean the most to you, where you want to and, without restriction? The answer could be a commitment ceremony. This is a ceremony for couples who want to make a public declaration of their life-long commitment and love for each other. The occasion can be shared with family and friends, or the ceremony can be held privately without guests. The ceremony can, if required, be conducted by a professional celebrant. However, you can also choose to have it led by someone you know instead.

The most important thing to remember about a commitment ceremony is that it has no legal standing, and does not provide you with any legal rights, protection or responsibilities.

When planning the commitment ceremony, a celebrant (if you are using one) will arrange to meet you beforehand to discuss the process and how to create it, according to your choices and wishes. They will also advise you about any restrictions that may apply if you decide to hold the ceremony at your home, such as health and safety issues. Your celebrant's main aim is to ensure that your ceremony runs smoothly and that you have a truly memorable day.

The advantage of a commitment ceremony is that the choice of venue is entirely up to you and does not carry any of the limitations required for a civil ceremony. This means that your celebration can take place outside or in your home, be conducted by a friend or family member, can include religious and spiritual text not allowed in civil ceremonies, or be held in venues which do not have civil marriage licences.

What are the costs for civil partnership and commitment ceremonies?

To give notice before registering a civil partnership the fee is currently £33.50, and to register a civil partnership the fee is currently £40.00. There will also be an additional fee for the cost of the attendance by the registrar; this is set by the local authority.

For a commitment ceremony, fees vary according to the style of ceremony you choose and the expenses of the celebrant, but start at around £200. A more personalised, custom made ceremony with a celebrant costs around £300.

To create a celebration which carries the most meaning for you as a couple, together with full legal status, why not consider following a civil partnership ceremony with that of a commitment one? What better way to create something completely unique, memorable and enduring!

Article by London Based Wedding Planner Lester Gethings

Image from Flickr by Nina Matthews Photography

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