A civil wedding ceremony in the UK is a non-religious legal union conducted by a registrar or an appointed officiant in an approved venue, such as a register office, hotel, or stately home. Unlike religious ceremonies, civil weddings must adhere to strict legal requirements and may not include religious readings, hymns, or prayers. However, music plays a significant role in personalising and enhancing the ceremony, allowing couples to create a meaningful atmosphere.
This article outlines the typical structure of a civil wedding ceremony and highlights key moments where music can be incorporated.
1. Pre-Ceremony and Guest Arrival
Before the ceremony officially begins, guests arrive at the venue and take their seats. This period, often lasting between 15 to 30 minutes, sets the tone for the wedding.
Music Inclusion:
- A selection of background music can be played to create a welcoming and relaxed ambiance.
- Live musicians, such as a string quartet, acoustic guitarist, or pianist, can perform soft instrumental pieces.
- Couples often choose classical pieces, jazz, or contemporary love songs that are instrumental in nature to avoid any religious connotations.
2. The Processional (Entrance of the Bride)
The processional marks the formal start of the ceremony, as the bride (or sometimes one partner followed by the other) enters the ceremony space. Traditionally, the entrance is a focal moment, capturing the anticipation and excitement of the occasion.
Music Inclusion:
- A carefully chosen processional piece can add a sense of grandeur and emotion.
- Instrumental versions of popular love songs or classical music (e.g., Pachelbel’s “Canon in D” or Elvis Presley’s ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love), can be used. For inspiration please head over to our listen page.
- Some couples opt for live musicians to enhance the moment with a personalised performance.
3. Welcome and Introduction by the Registrar
The registrar welcomes guests and provides an introduction, explaining the legal nature of the ceremony and its significance. This is usually a brief, formal segment.
Music Inclusion:
- Typically, no music is played during this part, but soft background instrumentals may continue if allowed by the venue.
4. The Declaratory and Contracting Words
This is the legally binding part of the ceremony where the couple makes their vows. The registrar will first ask each person if they willingly enter into the marriage (the declaratory words), followed by the contracting words, which legally bind them as a married couple.
Music Inclusion:
- Music is generally not played during this section, as it is the most solemn and legally required element of the ceremony.
- However, after the vows are exchanged, a short instrumental interlude can be played to mark the significance of the moment.
5. Exchange of Rings
Many couples choose to exchange rings as a symbol of their union. While not legally required, this moment holds deep sentimental value.
Music Inclusion:
- A soft musical piece can be played in the background as the rings are exchanged.
- Instrumental renditions of meaningful songs or gentle classical pieces work well here.
- A live musician can provide a personalised performance to make the exchange even more special.
6. Readings and Personal Vows (Optional)
While religious content is prohibited, civil ceremonies can include non-religious readings, poems, or personal vows. This is a deeply personal segment where couples can express their feelings and commitment in their own words.
Music Inclusion:
- Music may be played before or after the readings, serving as a reflective pause.
- A short instrumental piece can bridge the readings and the next section of the ceremony.
7. The Signing of the Register
After the exchange of vows and rings, the couple and their witnesses sign the marriage register, making the union legally binding. This process usually takes a few minutes.
Music Inclusion:
- This is one of the most common points for including music, as guests are watching but there is no formal speaking.
- Couples often choose two to three songs to be played during this time.
- Live music can enhance the experience, or a pre-selected playlist can be used.
8. The Pronouncement of Marriage
The registrar formally announces the couple as legally married. This is often followed by applause and a celebratory moment.
Music Inclusion:
- A triumphant piece can be played to mark the joyful occasion.
- This could be an uplifting instrumental, a classic romantic song, or an upbeat contemporary track.
9. The Recessional (Exit of the Married Couple and Guests)
The recessional signals the end of the ceremony, with the newlyweds leading the way out, followed by their guests.
Music Inclusion:
- A lively and celebratory song is typically played to reflect the joy of the moment.
- Popular choices include upbeat love songs, instrumental compositions, or even a fun and unexpected track that reflects the couple’s personality.
- Live musicians can add an extra celebratory feel to the occasion.
Conclusion
Music is a powerful tool that enhances the emotional depth and atmosphere of a civil wedding ceremony. While restrictions on religious music exist, couples can still personalise their day with carefully selected instrumental or secular pieces. By thoughtfully integrating music at key moments, from the entrance to the signing of the register and the final recessional, a civil wedding ceremony can be made uniquely memorable and meaningful.
JAM Duo can provide music throughout your ceremony and we are very happy to guide couples on choosing the appropriate music to suit the occasion. For musical inspiration please head over to our listen page.
