Civil Partnership - frequently asked questions
- How soon can I book my ceremony date?
- Can I register my partnership outdoors?
- How do I arrange a partnership ceremony?
- I don't live in Herefordshire, can I register a partnership there?
- How much does it cost?
- How do I pay?
- Do we need to bring any identification with us on the day?
- What happens if I am are late for the ceremony?
- How old do my witnesses need to be?
- Photographs - when can we take them?
- How many pieces of music may we include?
How soon can I book my ceremony date?
A provisional booking may be made for your ceremony up to 18 months in advance. This will become a confirmed booking when you give notice of partnership and this may be done 12 months in advance of your ceremony.
Can I register my partnership outdoors?
No. The law states that the ceremony must be held inside a permanent building.
How do I arrange a partnership ceremony?
When you have chosen your date and agreed this with the venue you will need to contact our ceremony co-ordinator to book a registrar to attend.
I don't live in Herefordshire, can I register my partnership there?
Yes, you can hold your ceremony in Herefordshire but you will need to give notice of partnership in the district in which you live. When you have chosen your date and agreed this with the venue you will need to contact our ceremony co-ordinator to book a registrar to attend. Please telephone our Herefordshire Registration Office for further details on 01432 260565 or email registrars@herefordshire.gov.uk or visit our offices at the Town Hall, St Owen Street, Hereford HR1 2PJ.
How much does it cost?
See our list of fees
How do I pay?
The fee is due one month before your ceremony. Payment can be made in the following ways:
- By cheque payable to Herefordshire Council, and posted to The Register Office, The Town Hall, St Owen Street, Hereford HR1 2PJ. Please give details of the date, venue and your names on the back of the cheque.
- By card payment over the telephone 01432 383261.
- By cash.
Do we need to bring any identification with us on the day?
No.
What happens if I am late for the ceremony?
It is important that your ceremony starts promptly as the registrar may be attending other ceremonies after yours. Late arrival may result in your ceremony not going ahead.
How old do my witnesses need to be?
Herefordshire Registration Service policy states that witnesses should be aged 18 or over and capable of understanding the events which have taken place.
Photographs - when can we take them?
We ask that your guests refrain from taking photos during the ceremony however a nominated photographer may take photos on the exchange of rings. There will be plenty of opportunity for photos at the end of the ceremony.
How many pieces of music may we include?
You may wish to include 3 pieces of music - during the entrance, one to play during the signing of the partnership schedule and one for the exit of the couple. Please note none of these pieces should have any religious content.