Outdoor Ceremonies More flexibility , more choice
YOUR CEREMONY
Outdoor Ceremonies More flexibility , more choice
Photography by : Nicola Dawson Photography
You can now have a legal wedding or civil partnership outdoors at a licensed venue ( Approved Premises ), providing greater flexibility and choice to couples on their special day . Previously ceremonies had to take place in a room within a licensed venue or in a permanent structure outside , couples can now have the whole ceremony outside in the venue ’ s grounds .
Here are some common questions , answered by the Kent Registration Service .
Q . Can I now get married anywhere outside ? Like a beach ?
Although there ’ s greater flexibility with outdoor ceremonies , the law has only changed to allow them to be able to take place within the grounds of an Approved Premises .
Q . I have an existing ceremony booked at an Approved Premises . Can I now have that ceremony outdoors ?
A . You should discuss this with the venue as soon as possible . The law allows ceremonies to take place outdoors in the grounds of the venue . However , whether you can change your ceremony from an approved room at the Approved Premises to a location in the grounds depends on whether the venue is offering outdoor ceremonies . The venue must also first obtain prior confirmation from the local authority that the proposed location for your outdoor ceremony is seemly and dignified . It is important that you discuss your wishes with the venue before making any firm plans .
Q . Can I get married in a marquee ? A . If the marquee is located within the grounds of the Approved Premises then yes . You should discuss this with your venue .
Q . Will I need to change my notice of intention to marry or civil partnership if I have my ceremony in the grounds of the Approved Premises ?
A . No . This will not be necessary unless you are changing to a different venue ( for example , if your current venue has decided not to offer outdoor ceremonies ).
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