What can you say in a civil marriage ceremony?
A civil ceremony must not include religious content of any kind — no hymns, religious readings, or references that could be regarded as religious in nature. You still have flexibility to personalise your vows, choose non-religious readings and music, provided the required legal wording is included.
The secular content rule
By law, a civil ceremony cannot include anything with religious content — this covers readings, music, and any words spoken during the ceremony itself, including personal vows.
Registrars will review any readings or additional wording you want to include beforehand to check they meet this rule.
What you can personalise
Outside the legally required declarations and contracting words, you can usually choose your own non-religious readings, add personal vows that reflect your relationship, and select music, as long as none of it has religious content.
Many register offices provide sample wording and reading suggestions if you are unsure what qualifies.
If you want a religious element
If religious content matters to you, options include marrying in a registered religious building, or holding a civil ceremony followed by a separate religious blessing that carries no legal status.
What this means for you
- Check any reading, song or personal vow wording with your registrar in advance to avoid it being rejected on the day.
- Consider a separate blessing afterwards if religious content matters to you.
Official sources
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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Simply Married is an independent planning service, not a register office or government department. Confirm current requirements and fees with your own register office and on GOV.UK.