A special way to celebrate your relationship, your way, at the location of your choice. 

Celebration Ceremonies 

Celebration ceremonies are a non-legal ceremony that resemble a wedding ceremony but can be completely personalised. 

If you have chosen a small legal ceremony but still want to share your joy with family and friends - our Celebration Ceremonies offer the perfect way to mark the occasion. Whether you envision a formal gathering or something relaxed and personal, our experienced celebrants will help create a meaningful and memorable ceremony that reflects you.

While these ceremonies are not legally binding, they allow you to celebrate in a way that feels right for you.

Ceremonies can take place at:

  • any licenced wedding venue
  • other public venues, for example pubs, hotels, stately homes
  • private venues, for example your own home or garden
  • outdoor locations, like woodlands or meadows

Some venues may be subject to a risk assessment.

Ceremony options

Classic Ceremony

Simple, elegant, and personal.

Our Classic Ceremony allows you to shape your celebration while keeping things simple. You can:

  • choose from a selection of beautifully crafted ceremony options 
  • write your own vows and ring words 
  • include up to two readings by friends or family

At the point of booking, we will send you a confirmation email with a link to our ceremony choices form which will allow you to start planning your ceremony, walk you through your options and the elements that you can personalise. Ideally, this form will be completed 8 weeks prior to your ceremony. 

Your celebrant will be in touch with you about a week before your ceremony to introduce themselves, talk you through what will happen on the day and be able to answer any last-minute questions that you may have. 

Tailored Ceremony 

Fully personalised for you.

With our Tailored Ceremony, you will have the opportunity to completely personalise your ceremony to create something unique. At the point of booking, we will send you an email which will include a guide to help you start thinking about what you would like to include. 

Around 8–12 weeks before your day, we will arrange a phone or video call with your celebrant to discuss the style of your ceremony and begin piecing together your perfect ceremony. Your celebrant will then craft a bespoke script, tailored to you. 

Your celebrant will then be in touch with you about a week before your ceremony to check in, ensure there are no changes that you would like to make and answer any last-minute questions that you may have.  

Make It Your Own

Both our ceremony options allow you to incorporate personal touches, such as:

  • exchanging rings or gifts
  • including music or cultural traditions
  • involving family and friends in special ways

Our celebrants are here to support you in creating a ceremony that feels truly special.

Ready to plan your celebration? Contact us to discuss your ceremony and check availability. 

Dorset Register Office, Dorchester

Email: registrars@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Tel: 01305 225153
Full contact details