A Civil Marriage is a legal marriage that carries no religious significance or affiliation with it. They are conducted almost anywhere in a suitable neutral environment.

A Civil Marriage is ideal for a couple where they are of different religious affiliations or backgrounds (e.g. Christian and Muslim or Jewish and Catholic) or for a couple that is not generally religious at all. A Civil Marriage is dignified and legally binding and all the legal documents will still be a requirement, but omits the biblical sentiments, hymns and prayers. Like any other Marriage, a Civil Marriage involves a Marriage certificate and adheres to the country’s laws, including any age restrictions imposed on its residents. Two witnesses signatures are required in the Marriage Register to make the Marriage certificate issued by the Minister on the day of your Marriage, valid.

Civil ceremonies allow increased flexibility for the bride and groom and the type of celebration they decide on, however the required legal phrases must be said by the Minister during the ceremony.

As with any other wedding, the couple still determines the style and ambience of their special day. They may choose to wear formal wedding attire, or they may keep the mood light with slightly more casual (or even themed) dress. Colours, food and decor are just as significant for a civil ceremony wedding as they are for any other, and the couple should plan these well in advance.

It is vital that you define your wedding ceremony and reception as individuals and as a couple. They should reflect your relationship and personalities in their style, theme and general ambience. Electing to have a Civil ceremony may be as a result of a respect for one another, the personal preferences of your guests, or a general desire to steer clear of the overtly religious.