Get married or form a civil partnership

Book and pay for a registrar

For your wedding or civil partnership to be legal, you need to have a registrar present.

Once you've booked your venue, you can book a registrar. You can do this up to two years before your ceremony.

It’s a good idea to do this as early as possible to make sure a registrar is available on the date you have in mind.

If you’re getting married or forming a civil partnership in the Essex Register Office, a registrar is included when you book your ceremony.

Some religious venues will provide their own registrars, but you should check this with them.

Fees and deposits

There is a non-refundable deposit for all civil ceremonies. The deposits vary from between £56 and £120 depending on ceremony and type of venue.

The full balance is due 6 months before the ceremony for approved venues.

If you are booking your ceremony within 6 months of the date, the full balance will be due at the point of booking.

Once you have booked, there will be a £25 charge for each alteration made.

Commemorative folder

You can now purchase a souvenir wedding folder to receive your certificate in. This costs just £4.00, to be paid when you give your Notice of Marriage.

This folder protects your certificate in transit and comes with an automatic upgrade from 2nd to 1st class post.

Ask your Registrar for more information at your appointment.

Ceremonies in approved premises

These fees include an £120 non-refundable deposit.

In addition to the fees below, £22 is also payable for two marriage certificate.

Ceremonies in community venues

These fees include VAT and a non-refundable £56 deposit. £22 is payable in addition for two marriage certificates.

Religious building

Registrar attendance at a religious building is £108.00. This includes £22 for two marriage certificates. Religious ceremonies must be paid in full when you book.