Which is the only county in England to be completely surrounded by water? Which county can offer you a memorable Wight wedding whatever your choice of ceremony? Welcome to the Isle of Wight. It lies just off England’s south coast, but no passport is needed for the short sea crossing – and once you’ve landed everything is within easy reach. This diamond-shaped island has a magic all of its own – and is one of the UK’s sunniest and warmest places. We trust you find this brochure helpful and informative. Whatever type of ceremony and venue you choose, we hope your big day is one you will cherish and remember with much love and happiness.
ISLE OF WIGHT Ceremonies Guide
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CONTENTS 3. It’s a nice day for a… 4. Civil marriage and civil partnership ceremonies 6. What do I need to do 8. On the day 10. Marriage ceremony 11. Civil partnership ceremony, Converting a civil partnership to a marriage 13. St Catherine’s room 14. Personalising your ceremony 16. Celebratory ceremonies 17. Renewal of vows ceremonies 18. Changing your name on your passport 19. Re-registration
20. Sponsored venues 27. Sponsored services 30. Approved premises
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IT’S A NICE DAY FOR A…
Ceremonies with the Isle of Wight registrars As well as having a civil marriage or partnership in the register office there are a number of approved premises on the Island. These premises are licenced by the Isle of Wight Council, under the Marriage Act 1994 and the Civil Partnership Act 2004, to hold civil marriage ceremonies and civil partnership ceremonies. You could choose to have a sea view, beautiful grounds, or a village setting. The choice is yours and you can be assured of our assistance throughout. If you have your heart set on a venue that is not one of our approved premises, we can still provide you with your special day. You will be required to hold your legal civil ceremony within the register office. And we will provide you with a specially crafted non-legal commitment ceremony. We also offer renewal of vows and baby naming or welcoming ceremonies. But we are unable to perform religious ceremonies. Please contact the Isle of Wight Registrars for more information on this. We trust you find this brochure helpful and informative. Whatever type of ceremony and venue you choose, we hope your big day is one you will cherish and remember with much love and happiness.
Which is the only county in England to be completely surrounded by water? Which county can offer you a memorable Wight wedding whatever your choice of ceremony? Welcome to the Isle of Wight. It lies just off England’s south coast, but no passport is needed for the short sea crossing – and once you’ve landed everything is within easy reach. This diamond-shaped island has a magic all of its own – and is one of the UK’s sunniest and warmest places. One of the most beautiful parts of Britain and just 25 miles by 13 miles, the Isle of Wight boasts 13 award- winning beaches, unspoilt and spectacular scenery and a rich historical heritage. More than half the Island is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with over 500 miles of public footpaths and bridleways, whilst almost 30 miles of the seashore has been designated as Heritage Coast. It is a county which offers a host of attractions including motorway-free countryside, breathtaking views, manor houses, vineyards, working water mills, steam railways and, of course, Queen Victoria’s royal residence. Discover picturesque villages, spectacular cliffs, downland, sandy beaches, rich farmlands, creeks, marshland, river valleys and a rich diversity of wildlife, flora and fauna.
Superintendent Registrar and Registration Team
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CIVIL MARRIAGE AND CIVIL PARTNERSHIP CEREMONIES A legal civil ceremony can take place at a register office or other venue approved by the local authority (hotel or stately home, for example) in England or Wales. For a ceremony in a licenced venue, you will need to make arrangements with the Isle of Wight Registrars and the venue in question. There are fees (which are set by the individual local authority) payable for registrar attendance at your ceremony, both at a register office and at a venue. Religious Ceremonies If you wish to have a religious ceremony in a Church of England or Church in Wales, you should speak to the vicar about the arrangements. If you wish to have a religious ceremony in any other denomination of church, you should first arrange to see the minister or other person in charge at the building to discuss your requirements, before contacting your local register office to complete the legal preliminaries.
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Legal formalities Unless you are celebrating in a Church of England or a Church in Wales, you will both be required to attend personally at the register office for the district(s) in which you both live to give a notice of marriage or civil partnership to the Superintendent Registrar. Both of you must have lived in that registration district in England or Wales for at least eight days immediately before your notice appointment. If you both live in the same district, you should ideally attend your local register office together to give notice. If you live in different registration districts, then each of you will need to give notice in your own district, preferably no more than seven days apart. If either of you are subject to immigration, then you will need to attend together at one of the register offices. You will be required to give notice of your intention to marry or enter into a civil partnership and documents will need to be produced – information on the acceptable documents will be listed on your provisional booking email. A statutory fee is payable to give notice and you will need to make an appointment by calling 01983 823233. After giving your notices, you
must wait at least a further 28 clear days before the ceremony can take place. For example, if the notices are given on the 1 st July, the ceremony can take place on or after the 30 th July. Further details of how to give notice of marriage or civil partnership can be found on our website – www.iow.gov.uk/births-deaths-and-ceremonies/. Please note Your ceremony cannot go ahead unless the legal formalities have been completed. You and your partner must give notice in person – no one can do so on your behalf. Where a provisional booking for a ceremony has been made, it is essential that formal notice is given within the timescale requested by the register office to ensure that your booking remains secure.
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WHAT DO I NEED TO DO 1. Choose your venue Select where you would like to hold your ceremony on the Isle of Wight. This could be in any of the approved premises, the register office, or a suitable space that has significant meaning to you. 2. Book your venue with the registrars Select a date that is special to you. Contact the Isle of Wight Registrars to check our availability on that date. Booking early is recommended to ensure the best chance at securing your preferred date and time. 3. Confirm your booking You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit at the time of booking. Your remaining ceremony fees will be due at the time of giving your notice. You will be advised of these costs when you first make your booking; alternatively, they can be found on the Isle of Wight Register Office website at: www.iow.gov.uk/ births-deaths-and-ceremonies/. The deposit will allow you one change of time/date/ venue in one transaction. If you decide to make further changes to the date/time/venue of your ceremony, you will be required to pay the deposit fee again. 4. Giving your legal preliminaries You will need to give your notice at least 28 days before the date of your ceremony, but no more than
12 months before. The notice is tied to the venue provided to the registrar in your appointment. If you have not given notice by 6 months before your ceremony date, you will be contacted and prompted to book your appointment with your local register office. There is a statutory fee made payable in your notice appointment to the register office where your appointment is being held. You will both be required to provide identity documentation to prove your name, date of birth, address, nationality, and marital status. These documents need to be original official documents (including English translations where necessary), we cannot accept photocopies. A list of the documents you are required to bring can be found on the Gov.uk website at: www.gov.uk/marriages-civil-partnerships If you or your partner are subject to immigration control and/or subject to the Home Office referral scheme, extra documents may be required. You may be required to undertake a 70 days’ notice period, rather than the standard 28 days. For more information, please visit www.gov.uk. You will be required to pay your remaining ceremony fees in/after your notice appointment. Fees are subject to change from the start of each financial year, and if your notice appointment is scheduled after the 1st April you will pay the new rates. If you live on the Isle of Wight this payment will be taken in your notice appointment. If you live elsewhere in England and Wales, after giving your notice you will be contacted
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to get in touch with us so that we can take the remaining fees.
non-refundable booking fee and notice fees).
u between four and eight weeks before the ceremony date, you will receive a 50% refund (excluding non-refundable booking fee and notice fees). u less than four weeks before the ceremony date (or failure to cancel), there will be no refund. 6. Personalising your ceremony You will receive your ceremony option form by email (or you can have this printed if you are unable to use/ or do not have the means to use a computer). This form will allow you to let the Ceremonies Officer know how you would like your ceremony to run. You will have the option of choosing your vows, music, and whether rings will be given. If you would like to include any enhancements to personalise your ceremony, you will be able to include items such as being given away, remembering loved ones, and providing a personalised address. This will need to be returned completed no later than two weeks before your ceremony to ensure enough time for the ceremony to be put together and all personalised aspects to be checked over by the Ceremonies Officer and Superintendent Registrar. 7. The Big Day On the day, you will meet together or separately (as agreed on your ceremony option form) with
5. After giving notice After your notice appointment, some of your personal information, including where your ceremony is going to take place, will go on public display for 28 days on a screen in the register office local to you. After you give your notice, and you need to change the date of your ceremony, as long as the new date falls within the 12 months’ validity period of your notice, you will not be required to give fresh notices. However, if the new date falls outside of the 12 months you will both need to give notice again, and pay the fees for giving notice. If for any reason the venue changes, you will both be required to attend a new appointment to give new notices for the new venue, and you will be required to pay the fees for giving notice again. Please note: It is your responsibility to ensure your legal requirements have been met and completed. This advice is just for guidance. CANCELLATION POLICY In the event that you need to cancel a ceremony, you will be required to notify us in writing. If you cancel u more than eight weeks before the ceremony date, you will receive a full refund (excluding
your registrars half an hour before the start time of your ceremony. The registrars will undertake a pre- ceremony interview where you will be asked to confirm the information on your Marriage or Civil Partnership Schedule. If any of the information has changed between the giving of notice and the date of your ceremony, this can be amended or added/removed, where appropriate to do so. They will also check some key points of your ceremony to ensure everything runs smoothly.
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ON THE DAY Arrival
Witnesses On the day of your ceremony, the law requires that you bring with you at least two other people who are prepared to witness your celebration and sign the marriage or civil partnership schedule. They may be relatives, friends or colleagues who are able to speak and understand English, as they must be able to comprehend what is taking place and testify to what they have seen and heard. Signing the schedule You will be asked to sign your usual signature on the schedule in the name you are contracting the marriage or civil partnership (for example, as you would normally sign a cheque or application form). This is even if you will be changing your name after the ceremony. Number of guests Of course, in addition to your witnesses, you may wish to invite your family and friends to your celebration. Each ceremony room will be licenced for a particular number of guests and you must adhere to these numbers as they are laid down according to fire regulations (photographers and videographers are included in this number). No extra guests are permitted to stand in the ceremony room, unless stated. Please note that children of any age are counted as individual guests and must be included in your overall numbers.
It is very important that you and your guests arrive in plenty of time – it is probable that the registrars will have other ceremonies to attend on the same day, so we are unable to delay the start of your celebration so that we do not risk being late for any other couple’s ceremony. You must be ready to start your ceremony on time. If you are late for your ceremony, we may not be able to proceed as planned and may have to remove some of your ceremony enhancements. To avoid any disappointment, please make sure that you have allowed enough time to get ready and arrive at the venue calmly and promptly. You are both required to be ready for a pre-ceremony interview with the registrar before your ceremony can begin. This is from 30 minutes before the start time of your ceremony. Your guests will be seated whilst this interview is taking place and so it may be useful for you to appoint an usher who can help co-ordinate this. If you do not wish to see each other until the start of the ceremony we can conduct separate interviews at all of our venues, and their staff are well practised in keeping you hidden until the last moment. We will also endeavour to help you stay apart at our register office too, but due to the nature of our building, this is not always possible. You may wish to nominate a guest to liaise with the registrars at our offices to try and assist with the situation.
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Recording the event A photograph album is a very special memento and we are happy to allow photographs at particular points during the ceremony. We suggest that you have one main photographer that takes official photographs during the ceremony, although we request that the use of a flash is minimal. We will also allow time for guests to take some of their own photographs at the end of a ceremony, should you wish this to happen. A single video recording is also permitted, but please inform the Ceremonies Officer on your ceremony option form beforehand. The equipment should be battery operated (unless you have a special arrangement with the licenced venue) as the registration service cannot provide any power source and will not accept responsibility for damage or loss to equipment whilst on any premises. The recording may only be made using the lighting already present in the ceremony room (no additional filming lights are permitted) and the operator must remain stationary throughout the ceremony. Parking The amount of parking varies according to where you have chosen to hold your ceremony. Please discuss what is available with the venue you have chosen. Confetti Confetti is a traditional part of any marriage or civil partnership celebration. We understand this and would simply ask that you check with your chosen venue as to what restrictions they may have regarding
where it can be used. At the register office, we are happy for your guests to use confetti once outside as long as it is biodegradable. Interpreter It is essential that both you and your two witnesses fully understand the content of your marriage or civil partnership ceremony, and therefore the full legal implications of such a celebration. If there are any language difficulties, you must provide a suitable interpreter to attend with you who will sign a declaration to confirm that they have translated all content for you, and are satisfied that you understand the nature and purpose of the ceremony. Having your ceremony outside We understand that you may have your heart set on an outside ceremony. Some of our approved premises have licenced garden structures and some venues have suitable outside areas, which enable a ceremony to take place outside. Due to the unpredictable British weather, whether your ceremony will be held outside or in the inside space of your chosen venue, is the decision of the registrars in attendance on the day. Please contact us for further information on which venues have this option and the terms and conditions surrounding such bookings.
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MARRIAGE CEREMONY
Declaratory words: “I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I ……… may not be joined in matrimony to …………” (traditional since 1837)
During your ceremony, you are required to exchange legal vows in order to contract your marriage with each other. You do not need to learn and remember the words you need to say in the ceremony. You will repeat the legal vows after the registrar, who will break them down into small sections. If you make a mistake, the registrar will repeat what you need to say or help you correct the words. Please don’t be embarrassed – your guests are there to celebrate your special occasion with you and will not mind if you show some nerves or make a mistake. If you have a giggle or shed a tear, most of them will probably join you! Although the legal declaratory and contractual words must be said in full and cannot be changed in any way, you have a choice of three different vows to use in your ceremony, depending on your preference. The Ceremonies Officer will provide you with a ceremony option form for you to choose which set of declaratory and contracting words you would like to say to each other.
OR
“I declare that I know of no legal reason why I ………… may not be joined in marriage to …………” (modern version)
OR
by replying “I am” to the question “Are you ……… free lawfully to marry …….….” (short ceremony) Contracting words: “I call upon these persons here present to witness that I ………… do take thee ………… to be my lawful wedded wife/husband.” (traditional since 1837)
OR
“I ………… take thee …………… to be my wedded wife/husband.” (revised version)
OR
“I ………… take you ………… to be my wedded wife/husband.” (short ceremony)
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CIVIL PARTNERSHIP CEREMONY
the same way as marriage ceremonies, with your own vows, exchange of rings, music and readings. Our team will be happy to give you guidance and support in planning the right ceremony for you both. CONVERTING A CIVIL PARTNERSHIP TO A MARRIAGE Couples who previously formed a partnership can now convert it to a marriage. This can either be a simple administrative process with no need for witnesses, or you can plan a full ceremony with friends and family to mark the occasion. The choice is yours. You will be treated legally as having been married from the date of the original partnership. The cost is normally the same as a simple or full marriage ceremony, as appropriate. Check our website for current prices. The government are currently consulting on conversion options for converting a marriage to a civil partnership. We’ll update our website as soon as an announcement has been made.
Civil partnerships are now available to both same and opposite sex couples, with the law changing in December 2019. Originally, civil partnerships were introduced to enable same-sex couples to form a legal commitment to each other. While civil marriages are now available to all, some couples may prefer to form a partnership. The process is very similar to getting married, but the words used are slightly different. You will sign the civil partnership schedule, and you do not need to repeat the vows aloud if you don’t wish to. It’s a simple legal formality that grants rights similar to those of married couples. The partnership ceremony can take place at any register office or approved venue. You need to give notice in the same way as couples intending to marry and provide the same identity and legal documentation. Do ask our team if you have any queries about what is needed.
You’ll need to provide two witnesses to sign the schedule. You can also personalise the ceremony in
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ST CATHERINE’S ROOM
A light and airy room, decorated in classic cream and navy, this room is a lovely backdrop for your ceremony and is surrounded by ample parkland for those special photos. This room seats the bride and groom plus 12 guests (this includes children of any age, and photographer). The room can also be used for renewal of vows, naming ceremonies and private citizenship ceremonies. Having your celebration here will allow you to personalise your ceremony with music, a ring exchange and being given away. The Ceremonies Officer will email you with a ceremony option form after you have given your notice; to be completed no later than two weeks before your ceremony date to ensure the ceremony can be created and checked.
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PERSONALISING YOUR CEREMONY The most memorable celebrations are those with a personal touch – perhaps you could get family and friends involved by asking them to take a reading which means something to you and your partner. Additionally, you could choose a piece of music that has special significance to you both to guarantee a unique and memorable atmosphere! Readings You may wish to include a short reading of verse or prose at your ceremony, which could be read by you or one of your guests. If you or one of your guests would like to write their own reading, this can be done, but it will need to be sent separately to the Ceremonies Officer for approval no later than two weeks before the ceremony. Readings cannot contain any religious content, such as excerpts from the Bible or any readings with religious connotations – neither can they be edited to leave out a religious reference. All readings must be approved by the Ceremonies Officer and Superintendent Registrar prior to your ceremony. All details of readings must be completed on the ceremony option form and copies provided with the completed form prior to your ceremony.
Music Music is an extremely popular enhancement to a ceremony, particularly when you have a favourite piece that has a special significance to you both. Music can be played whilst your guests are being seated, during your entrance, the signing of the schedule and as you exit the ceremony room. You may wish for either one or all of your guests to sing a song during your ceremony rather than have a reading. However, as with all content, it cannot contain any religious connotation (for example, you are not able to have a hymn) and must be approved by the Ceremonies Officer and Superintendent Registrar prior to the ceremony. If your ceremony is at the register office you will need to supply your own music – we have a CD player and Bluetooth speaker available (please check with us for compatibility). If you are holding your ceremony at a licenced venue, you should check what facilities they have for live and recorded music options: the duty to manage the music must be taken by the licenced venue. All details of music tracks must be completed on the ceremony option form and sent into the register office prior to your ceremony for approval. Personal vows If you would like to write your own personal vows, you are able to do so in addition to the legal declaratory and contracting words. This could be
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added to the end of the contracting words (for the registrar to say and you to repeat), or you could choose to write up to 150 words to read aloud on your own. You will need to check ‘yes’ on the ceremony option form, and provide the personal vows to the Ceremonies Officer to be checked before the ceremony. You may also wish to print out personal vows on a card to hold and read from during the ceremony, as these vows will not be read by the registrar. Entrance and giving away You can choose how to start your ceremony, whether you wish to be walked in by a member of your family or a friend, or whether you wish to enter together as a couple. You may also choose to be accompanied by an entrance party of bridesmaids. Please indicate on your ceremony option form how you wish to enter the ceremony space. During the ceremony you may wish to be verbally ‘given away’ by a family member or friend. This person/s will be called up during the start of the ceremony and asked if they are happy to give you in to the love and care of your partner. Please indicate on the ceremony option form if you would like to have this included. The ceremony The Ceremonies Officer will provide the script for your ceremony which will not only include the legal vows, but also additional words that you can say to
each other, for example at the exchange of rings. Any sections you have marked on the ceremony option form where you are able to provide additional wording yourself, such as the personalised address or remembering loved ones, will be added into the ceremony script at the appropriate times. You may wish to have a simplified ceremony, by choosing to leave the exchange of rings and readings until your blessing. This is okay, but you must exchange vows and sign the schedule in front of your witnesses. Please indicate this on your ceremony option form so that the Ceremonies Officer can alter your ceremony accordingly. Animals in ceremonies We understand that sometimes those who mean the most to us are not always human. So, if you would like to include your pets or animals within your ceremony, then this is down to the Venue’s discretion. Animals are not permitted to take part or to be present at any ceremonies held at the Isle of Wight Register Office. The exceptions are assistance dogs who may attend with their owners, but are required to be wearing their identity jacket. Please inform the Ceremonies Officer, on the ceremony option form, if you will be bringing an assistance dog to the ceremony.
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CELEBRATORY CEREMONIES
Commitment ceremonies Sometimes you just have a yearning to have and do something different… ‘your day, your way’. With the Isle of Wight Registrars, you can achieve this. Maybe you have always wanted to marry in a special place, on the beach, in your garden, by a lake, in the woods or anywhere else your dream takes you. Whilst you can only legally be married in a licenced venue or register office you can still make your wedding – your day, your way. How? There are a number of options. The only stipulation is that your legal ceremony must take place in a licenced venue or the Register Office before a bespoke celebration. This could be earlier in the day, or within the same week, month or year. Your celebration can then take place anywhere and in any style you wish… even including a religious element if you wished. Contact the register office and tell them you would like a commitment ceremony and they will take a few details. We will work with you to bring your dreams and ideas to life; from the words used to the style of your ceremony and beyond…
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RENEWAL OF VOWS CEREMONIES
Are you about to celebrate that special milestone anniversary, twenty-five, forty or even fifty years of married life? Do you know somebody close to you, parents or grandparents, who have given you those years of love and support and you wish to help them celebrate a wonderful family occasion? There is no better way of acknowledging the day than preceding the anniversary party with a delightful ceremony to renew those treasured marriage vows. Maybe, as a younger couple, you held your marriage or civil partnership ceremony abroad in an idyllic tropical setting? Now that you are home and the photograph album has been shared with family and friends, perhaps you would like to relive the moment and let those closest to you witness the restating of your vows to each other and follow with a celebratory party at the venue of your choice. The Isle of Wight Registrars will be happy to assist you in making your arrangements and conducting such a ceremony.
Renewal ceremonies can take place at the Isle of Wight Register Office, at any licenced venue – where they can host your ceremony and cater for your celebration, or at a suitable location of your choice. The renewal ceremony has no legal standing; this allows the freedom for each couple to create a unique celebration to suit their own particular requirements. Speeches, readings and music from your wedding may be given or played again, changes in your lives can be acknowledged allowing your children and/or grandchildren to contribute, and new promises may be made to reflect your plans for your continuing future together. Old rings may be rededicated or new rings exchanged, and to mark your ceremony a special commemorative certificate will be presented. A ceremony option form can be issued to help you create that special ceremony. If you would like to discuss holding a renewal of vows ceremony, please call us on 01983 823233 for more information and details of our availability or call in to the Isle of Wight Register Office.
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CHANGING YOUR NAME ON YOUR PASSPORT It is up to you whether you would like to change your name after your marriage or civil partnership ceremony. This could be one or both partners changing their surname. You should think carefully about whether you wish to change your name on your passport in advance of your ceremony date or whether you wait until you have returned from any honeymoon or foreign trip. This is because you should ensure that the name on your passport matches the name in which you have booked your travel. Even if you have your marriage or civil partnership certificate with you, some countries may not let you in and some travel companies may not let you board their flights if your name is different on your tickets than on your passport. You should check with your travel agent or the consulate of the country you plan to visit prior to making the decision to change the name on your passport in advance, particularly if visas are involved. If you decide to change your name on your passport (to your future name) in advance of your ceremony, you can do so up to three months before the ceremony date. The Passport Office will cancel your old passport and issue you with a new one. But please note: the new passport will be dated to become valid on the day of your ceremony and therefore cannot be used before.
Similarly, when the Passport Office cancels your old passport, any visas on that passport may become invalid. To amend your passport before your ceremony, you need to complete a standard application form but also a form PD2 which you can obtain:
u from any Post Office that offers a check and send service
u from any regional passport office
u by calling the Passport Office adviceline on 0300 222 0000 who will send it to you
u by downloading it from the www.gov.uk website
There is also an accompanying leaflet (PD1) entitled ‘Passports for Newly Weds and Civil Partners’, which explains exactly what to do. After you have completed your section of the PD2 form, the Superintendent Registrar or Officiating Minister who will be conducting your ceremony, will also need to complete part of the form. Please take the form into the register office of the district where your ceremony is taking place during opening hours – you do not need to make an appointment and there is no charge for this service. If you decide to change your name on your passport after your ceremony when you have returned from any trip overseas, you need only complete and send to the Passport Office a standard application form and your marriage or civil partnership certificate.
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RE-REGISTRATION According to law, a child’s birth will need to be re- registered if the parents have entered into a marriage or civil partnership with each other since the birth. At this time, a new birth record will be created showing the child as a child of the parents’ marriage or civil partnership, replacing the original registration and all future copy birth certificates will be issued from this new record. You do not have to return to the same register office where you originally registered your child’s birth, although it is preferable. The new birth record will still have to be entered in their registers, but if you have moved since your child was born, you can complete a re-registration appointment at the register office most convenient to your new location. That office will take all of the relevant information from you and forward it on your behalf to the register office holding the original birth entry for processing – this is called a declaration. Marriage To complete the re-registration, both parents need to fill in a form LA1 which can be obtained from any register office in England or Wales, or can be downloaded from www.gov.uk. A re-registration appointment can only be booked after the marriage or civil partnership has taken place – it cannot occur before the ceremony. Once you have both completed and signed the form, you will need to
bring the child’s original birth certificate and your marriage or civil partnership certificate to the appointment. If you have more than one child, you will need to complete an LA1 form for each child. Only one parent needs to attend the re-registration appointment (although both are welcome) and there is no charge for this service. The only cost that you will incur is if you wish to purchase a new, full birth certificate for your child which you will need for many official purposes, such as passport applications.
If you have any queries on re-registration, please call the Isle of Wight Register Office on 01983 823233.
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Events at Priory Bay This Woodland Event Yurt and the Boathouse, both located on Priory Bay, are versatile spaces perfect for weddings, corporate events, and milestone celebrations. Both venues offer stunning and unique settings for your special occasion. The Event venue accommodates up to 140 guests, hidden in the woodlands, and features a stunning deck overlooking Priory Bay. For a more relaxed beachfront experience, the Boathouse offers a ‘sand- between-your-toes’ setting. Imagine arriving in style – gliding across the water on a private hovercraft, landing directly on the beach... This exclusive, invitation-only location offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and relaxed sophistication, with a subtle boho vibe that adds a touch of effortless elegance. Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, an anniversary celebration, or your dream wedding day, Events at Priory is more than just a venue – it’s an unforgettable experience. On-site accommodation is for 16 guests, which comprise of two glamping yurts and the charming stone Coach House. Get in touch to plan your viewing soon!
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Commodores House This iconic waterfront property in Cowes offers a truly unique and atmospheric venue. Guests can relax on the waterside terrace, enjoy the harbour views, and wait for your arrival. It can be a spectacular moment if you choose to arrive by boat. The boathouse has room to seat up to 80 people for delicious food, specially prepared by your approved caterer. Steeped in history, this beautifully restored residence provides a characterful setting for your special day.
Events at Priory, Seaview, Isle of Wight PO34 5BU
Commodores House, 74 High Street, Cowes PO31 7AJ
Tel: 07572 749642
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes
Tel: 01983 666410
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes
Email: hello@isleofwight-beachweddings.co.uk
Number of Guests (Boathouse) 50+ Woodland event venue 140
Email: jt@commodoreshouse.co.uk Web: www.commodoreshouse.co.uk
Number of Guests seated 80 – standing 200
Web: www.isleofwight-beachhomes.co.uk IG: eventsatpriory
Accommodation Yes
Accommodation No
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Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard Encapsulated by private woodlands, lakes and manicured lawns with unparalleled riverfront views, Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard offers an award-winning, 24-acre dog-friendly wedding venue in the heart of the Isle of Wight. Overflowing with character, nature and innovation, every detail has been meticulously considered for guest enjoyment whilst framing and nurturing the unique wildlife that calls the estate home. Offering stunning interior design with hi-tech facilities, immersive woodland walks and an organic vineyard, the estate has taken pride in perfecting a unique wedding experience. If bubbles and loafers in the perfect quintessential English setting is the ideal wedding then this is certainly the venue for you. Sleeping 8 guests in residence, and with an option to host a festival style TIPI village in the grounds, there is an abundance of choice. Privacy and ease of travel is part of the package and the estate has a private jetty, security, a golf buggy and helipad too, phew! Having spent years sourcing the finest suppliers, Pinkmead Estate is really proud to showcase world-class talent developing the perfect balance of luxury and environment. With an outstanding reputation for delivering award-winning residencies, their dedicated team are on hand to make your day effortless and truly exceptional. Whether an extravagant or intimate ceremony, your imagination is boundless yet, if you wish to keep things simple, the estate has created a guide for all budgets. Every wedding will have full exclusivity of the grounds including the organic vineyard where you can drink the latest harvest whilst walking the vines. Alongside full estate exclusivity there are four licenced locations for the ceremony including The Poetry Hut, The Studio and the Kitchen Garden which are more suited to smaller intimate gatherings, or there’s The Boathouse and the Vineyard that can accommodate many more guests. Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard is a female-owned family business and proud advocate of the LGBTQ+ family and are open to all to celebrate the glorious range of diversity in this world. They cannot wait to welcome you and discover the Isle of Wight’s newest wedding venue.
Pinkmead Estate & Vineyard, Werrar Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5TU
Tel: 01983 212997
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes
Email: reservations@pinkmeadestate.co.uk
Number of Guests 100+ Accommodation Yes
Web: www.pinkmeadestate.co.uk
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Steve Bryant
Isle Click
Quay Arts This beautiful, fully accessible, Grade II-listed Victorian building is located in the centre of Newport, overlooking the harbour. Combining historic charm and contemporary appeal, Quay Arts offers a choice of versatile spaces for your day. A dedicated, experienced team help make sure everything runs according to plan while the catering team always provide delicious, competitively priced food and drink for all diets and budgets. They look forward to hearing from you!
Seaview Hotel The Seaview Hotel is situated a stone’s throw from the sea and offers several locations in which you can perform your ceremony. From dawn to dusk you’ll be in the safest of hands, with every detail carefully considered and catered for. The Seaview Hotel is famous for using a unique combination of experience and creativity to provide delicious food for which they have been awarded seven consecutive two AA rosettes. High Street, Seaview, Isle of Wight PO34 5EX Tel: 01983 612711 Email: reception@seaviewhotel.co.uk Web: www.seaviewhotel.co.uk Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests up to 50 Accommodation Yes
East Afton Farmhouse Surrounded by rolling countryside, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, East Afton Farmhouse offers the most idyllic setting for your celebration. Offering everything you need for your big day, these beautiful wedding barns provide versatile indoor space for dreamy year-round weddings. With a choice of three ceremony and events spaces at East Afton Farm, you can plan your day, your way. The modern large barn overlooks a pretty courtyard and has a great mixture of exposed brick and timber cladding with a vaulted ceiling. Large glass windows and doors open onto the stone courtyard, giving a bright and airy feel. This really opens up the space to let the outside in, in your own pocket of countryside. The Barn comes complete with a commercial kitchen, and an 8-metre-long bar and modern facilities. This fantastic location provides space for ceremonies, receptions and evening entertainment, as well as guest accommodation on-site and nearby.
Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5BD
Tel: 01983 822490 Email: info@quayarts.org Web: www.quayarts.org
East Afton Farmhouse, Newport Road, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight PO41 0YJ
Tel: 01983 758729
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests up to 120 Accommodation No
Email: weddings@eastaftonfarmhouse.com Web: www.eastaftonfarmhouse.com
Number of Guests 170 seated/200 standing
Accommodation Yes
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Ventnor Botanic Garden
Barton Manor Barton Manor is one of the most romantic and historic venues on the Isle of Wight. Guests arrive along the glorious tree-lined drive for a ceremony in the extensive formal gardens laid out by King Edward VII, or within one of the licenced farm buildings built by Prince Albert. Couples and their guests can enjoy the yew hedge maze, the pond walk or the ancient woodland. The estate is secluded and private, hosting only a handful of weddings per year.
Your wedding could be set in 22 acres of paradise bursting with exotic, rare and endangered plants at Ventnor Botanic Garden. A wedding venue offering both indoor and outdoor locations for either a ceremony or reception with the option of spending your whole wedding day at the Garden. Small and large ceremonies and receptions can be catered for, from 2 to 400 people with 4 licenced spaces for ceremonies and use of four different reception spaces including the immersive New Zealand Garden.
Sir Max Aitken Museum This historic pink building on the Cowes waterfront provides a venue that is both unique and atmospheric, with a wonderful full-length balcony overlooking the Solent, allowing additional space for your guests to relax and mingle. At high tide, steps also enable access from the water. Inside the 18th-century former sail-loft is a wonderful collection of paintings, memorabilia, trophies and artefacts put together by the late Sir Max Aitken, and which today creates a memorable backdrop for your special day.
Barton Estate Whippingham, Isle of Wight PO32 6LB
Ventnor Botanic Garden, Undercliff Drive, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1UL.
Tel: 01983 280537 Email: bartonmanoriw@gmail.com Web: www.bartonestate.co.uk
Tel: 01983 855397 Email: weddings@botanic.co.uk Web: www.botanic.co.uk
Sir Max Aitken Museum, The Prospect, 83 High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7AJ.
Tel: 01983 293800
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests 180 Accommodation Yes
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests up to 400 Accommodation 13
Email: weddings@sirmaxaitkenmuseum.org Web: www.sirmaxaitkenmuseum.org
Number of Guests up to 80
Accommodation No
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The Birdham at Bembridge The Birdham offers a truly memorable setting for couples looking to celebrate their wedding in style. From the first enquiry to the final toast, the dedicated team works closely with each couple to create a bespoke experience tailored to their vision. Located in the elegant seaside village of Bembridge, this beautifully restored Edwardian hotel blends timeless charm with modern comfort, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable celebration. The ceremony and reception spaces are thoughtfully designed to feel both elegant and inviting, offering a stylish setting that effortlessly complements a range of wedding styles. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or a larger event, the layout provides flexibility without compromising on atmosphere. The Birdham can accommodate up to 90 guests for the ceremony and wedding breakfast, with space for an additional 90 for evening festivities. Guests can stay and relax in comfort, making the most of a magical occasion. Say ‘I do’ at The Birdham, Bembridge.
Robin Hill A Magical Celebration Awaits Robin Hill is set within 88 acres of open parkland, ancient woodland and beautifully landscaped gardens; offering a truly exceptional wedding experience. You have a number of distinctive areas to choose from to host your dream ceremony. Nestled in the heart of Woodlands Ponds, their exclusive private space provides an enchanting setting for your wedding party. Featuring a stunning circular bar, enhanced with one of their bespoke marquees, you and your guests will be immersed in the splendour of the forest glow with a breathtaking display of lights and lasers. Excitingly, 8 new treehouses will open in late 2025, providing luxurious accommodation for your special guests. Paired with a choice of premium catering options, including the renowned Heron Smoke House, Robin Hill is the ultimate destination to celebrate your special day. Let their dedicated team bring your dream wedding to life.
Downend Road, Downend, Newport PO30 2NU
1 Steyne Road, Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5UH
Tel: 01983 527352
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests up to 700
Tel: 01983 872840
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes
Email: events@robin-hill.com
Email: weddings@thebirdhambembridge.co.uk Web: www.thebirdhambembridge.co.uk
Number of Guests 90 All day guests / 180 Evening guests
Web: robin-hill.com
Accommodation Yes
Accommodation 14 Rooms
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New Barn Farm New Barn Farm is the perfect setting for your unique country wedding. Situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the edge of rolling chalk downland, within a 10 minute drive of Newport. The traditional stone barns are set overlooking the gardens of the listed Georgian farmhouse and make a superb setting for a relaxed wedding. The barn’s high-vaulted ceiling with ancient exposed timbers create a great atmosphere, whilst French doors open to a largely lawned formal garden beyond where guests can mingle. Exclusively for the use of the wedding, the garden is a great spot for games and photographs. A separate stone barn forms a dedicated space for ceremonies where guests can congregate in the adjacent courtyard.
New Holmwood Hotel The New Holmwood Hotel is perfectly situated at Egypt Point, West Cowes enjoying panoramic views of the internationally renowned sailing waters of the Solent. They are proud to assist with planning and advice for your special day drawing on their 20 years of experience. Friendly and professional staff, the highest levels of cuisine, and their purpose-built ceremony room, the Commodores Suite, make them the perfect choice. New Holmwood Hotel, Queens Road, Egypt Point, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 8BW Tel: 01983 292508 Email: julian.thomas@newholmwoodhotel.co.uk Web: www.newholmwoodhotel.co.uk Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests 60 Accommodation 52
Island Sailing Club The Island Sailing Club in the heart of Cowes offers a perfect location for boutique smaller weddings of up to 60 people. With stunning panoramic views of the Solent from the top terrace and marquee, it makes the perfect backdrop for your special day. The Club offers different dining options from 3-course sit down meals to BBQs. There is a wedding planner on site to help plan the big day from start to finish and their friendly staff are passionate about making your day all about you and your guests.
The Bargeman’s Rest Situated on Newport Quay, a few moments from the town centre, is The Bargeman’s Rest. The Bargeman’s Rest offers a separate upstairs function room which caters for up to 100 guests and has its own entrance, bar and dancefloor, plus a large balcony which offers spectacular river views – perfect for summer weddings! This attractive quayside pub also boasts an extensive wine list and selection of local ales as well as a varied homemade menu which can be tailored to requirement for your special day.
Island Sailing Club, 70 High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight PO31 7RE
New Barn Farm, Sun Hill, Calbourne Road Calbourne, Isle of Wight PO30 4JA
The Bargeman’s Rest, Little London, Newport PO30 5BS
Tel: 01983 296621 Email: admin@islandsc.org.uk Web: www.islandsc.org.uk
Tel: 07920 780647 Email: newbarnfarmiow@gmail.com Web: www.newbarnfarmiow.co.uk
Tel: 01983 525828 Email: info@bargemansrest.com Web: www.bargemansrest.com
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests 60 Accommodation Yes
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests up to 120 Accommodation No
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Yes Number of Guests up to 100 Accommodation No
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Newclose Hidden away within acres of picturesque countryside, just a mile outside Newport, is Newclose. Its central location and ample parking make Newclose an easily accessible venue for all. The Pavilion, available all year round, can comfortably seat 80 guests. Prices start at £900. The stunning Marquee is available from April to September and can hold 300 people with prices starting at £2,000. Both the Pavilion and the Marquee provide facilities for alternative caterers; get in touch with the events manager who will be delighted to talk you through all the options available.
The Riverside Centre Affordable and flexible, our centrally located community venue on Newport Quay is only a short five- minute walk from the register office along Newport Harbour. With in-house catering offering a choice of grazing menus, a fully licenced bar and stage, the spacious interconnecting rooms can cater for up to 300 guests. Built in Bluetooth audio, ample parking and excellent public transport links make this the venue of choice for larger, cost-conscious celebrations.
Newclose County Cricket Ground Blackwater Road, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 3BD
Tel: 01983 824 570 Email: weddings@newclose.org Web: www.newclose.org/weddings
The Riverside Centre, The Quay, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 2QR
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies No Number of Guests up to 300 Accommodation No
Tel: 01983 594400
Licenced for Civil Ceremonies No
Email: hello@theriversidecentre.org.uk Web: www.theriversidecentre.org.uk
Number of Guests 300 Accommodation No
www.sjjonesphotography.co.uk
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