The registrar will be happy to tailor the ceremony to the exact wishes of the couple and In Dundee we allow plenty of time for your ceremony. The registrar will be happy to accommodate any requests that you may have but the various options below may assist you in arranging your ceremony.
Option 1 : Promises
Nowadays many couples wish to make personal promises to each other before exchanging their vows. These may be romantic, serious or humorous. Many couples also wish to use the words “I DO” or “I WILL” during the ceremony and the inclusion of promises will allow this during the ceremony.
Option 2 : Vows
You must each make a declaration during the ceremony but these may be amended to include any vows that you feel are appropriate. You may also choose to make different vows for each partner.
Option 3 : Readings
You may also wish to consider including readings by family or guests during the ceremony and advice is available from the Registrar to help you select suitable passages or poems. It is popular for couples to have 2 readings during the ceremony, one before the couple exchange their vows and one afterwards.
Option 4 : Exchange of Rings
The exchange of rings is a pivotal point in the ceremony and many couples feel that it is appropriate to offer each ring as a symbol or token of their love. This can be highlighted by a simple declaration as the ring is placed upon the finger.
Option 5 : Music
Further consideration should also be given to your entrance. Many couples wish to pair up with our bluetooth speaker and use their own playlist or choose to be piped into the ceremony room. Some couples have also arranged for a singer or band to perform as part of the ceremony. If you wish to make arrangements for live music or want to incorporate a selection of music you should discuss this beforehand with the Registrar. Please note however, that no religious content is allowed in a civil partnership ceremony.
The registrar will be happy to show examples of all the above elements and will assist you to draw up an “order of service.” All your video recording and photographic arrangements will also be accommodated, in consultation with the Registrar.
Option 6 : Candles
Couples may choose to light a Unity Candle during their ceremony to represent the light of two people in love. It is a candle of unity because both two flames must come together, giving a spark to themselves, to create a new light, symbolising the union of their lives.
A candle also is a symbol of commitment because it takes two people working together to keep it aflame.
Option 7 : Orders of Service
Once couples have selected suitable promises vows etc. it is quite popular to create an Order of Service which lets guests follow the ceremony and is a very personal souvenir of the day. Orders of service would contain an outline of the ceremony and would normally include vows, promises, wording for the exchange of rings and any readings that the couple have chosen. Couples may choose to create their own Orders of Service but the Registrar in Dundee will be happy to design and print Orders of Service as required, for a modest fee.
Floral Arrangements
Silk flower pedestal arrangements will be provided for you on the day of your ceremony. However, should you wish fresh flowers on your special day, you are more than welcome to arrange with a florist of your choice to have any arrangements delivered prior to your ceremony.
