Important Information about your Commitment Ceremony:
Neither the Commitment Ceremony nor any document issues as part of the Ceremony has any legal status and cannot be used to establish legal rights. These Ceremonies are secular and do not contain religious references. If Ceremonies are held in buildings known as Register Offices, note that they are designated as Local Authority premises during these Ceremonies. Members of staff who are also Registrars, are not designated as Registrars when conducting Ceremonies.
What is a Commitment Ceremony?
A commitment ceremony is a meaningful and dignified Ceremony for adult couples. The purpose of the Ceremony is to make a public declaration of life-long commitment, love and dedication between two people. The occasion can be shared with family and friends or, if you prefer, the Ceremony can be held in private without guests.
Where can a Commitment Ceremony be held?
In Northamptonshire you can hold these ceremonies at any Register Office, any licensed venue for civil marriages, and any other public building for example sports centres, village halls, public house subject to health and safety requirements and subject to the availability of both a Celebrant and the location.
Who conducts a Commitment Ceremony?
A professional Celebrant, who will meet with the couple prior to the actual occasion to offer advice and discuss the requirements, conducts the Ceremony. Please be assured that all details relating to your Ceremony will be treated in the strictest confidence.
How is a Commitment Ceremony created?
Every Commitment Ceremony is unique. Working within the Ceremony framework, couples create their own unique celebration by selecting words, poems, and readings that hold a special meaning for them. The venue, number of guests and involvement of other guests are all choices made by the couple to create a meaningful, personalised and shared experience.
How can we arrange a Commitment Ceremony?
If you would like to book a ceremony please phone (01604) 707907 and give the following details; your name, daytime contact number, full postal address, required location, date and time. You will receive confirmation that we have your request within 2 working days. A Celebrant will then be in contact within 14 working days of your initial enquiry to either confirm the booking or discuss alternatives available.
What decisions do you need to consider?
Do think carefully about who you would like to invite, think about the words you will say to one another and whether you wish to exchange rings and/or gifts. The ceremony is designed to adapt to your needs and wishes, so do take time to consider your choices and discuss them with the Celebrant who will be happy to offer you the benefit of their experience and advice.
Current fees are (from April 1 2008):
Initial fee (non refundable deposit) £50
This will entitle you to the information pack from which you may select your own choice of ceremony
Selected Register Offices*
| Weekdays during opening hours |
£150 (inc £50) |
| Weekdays outside normal hours by arrangement |
£190 (inc £50) |
| Saturdays |
£220 (inc £50) |
| Sundays and Bank Holidays |
£300 (inc £50) |
|
Venues |
|
| Weekdays |
£200 (inc £50) |
| Saturdays |
£250 (inc £50) |
| Sundays and Bank Holidays |
£300 (inc £50) |
Conditions
*Dependent on which Register Office is used there may be a room hire charge at certain times over the weekend, for which NCC has no control.
Fees are payable approximately a month prior to the ceremony or sooner whichever is appropriate.
You will be advised in advance if any additional fees are to be charged.
We are able to accept payment by any form of credit card with the exception of Diners Card and American Express.
All fees will be taken at the time you meet your Celebrant to discuss ceremony details, of which £30 is non refundable under any circumstances. It should be noted that fees may be reviewed periodically.
It should be stressed that the ceremony has no legal status.
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