Civil Weddings in Shetland
Whether you choose to get married in our Registration Offices, or at any agreed venue our registrars will be happy to offer assistance and advice.
When you have decided on a date and a venue for your marriage, contact the appropriate registration office to check availability. Please make your booking as soon as possible. The Registrar will ask you for a £42 non-refundable deposit at the time of booking.
Couples are encouraged to create their own unique ceremony, in conjunction with the registrar. Nowadays many couples wish to make personal promises to each other before exchanging their vows, these can be romantic, serious or humorous. You must each make a declaration during the ceremony but these may be amended to include wording that you feel is appropriate. You may also wish to include readings by family or guests during the ceremony. Consideration should also be given to the entrance of the bride. Many couples record music on CD or tape. Some couples have also arranged for musicians to perform as part of the ceremony. The registrar will be happy to show examples of all the above and assist you in planning your ceremony.
Couples are now permitted to include religious readings or hymns as part of their civil marriage ceremony. However any religious content would not be carried out by the registrar. Usually couples would prefer family members or friend to do this.
Religious or Belief Marriages
If you wish to have a religious or belief marriage ceremony you must contact and arrange your marriage with the minister, priest or other celebrant.
In addition to consulting with the minister, etc you must also contact the Registrar. You must complete Forms M10 and submit them with the appropriate documentation and fees.