What happens on the wedding day?
On the day, the registrar or authorised person confirms your identities, the ceremony includes the legally required declarations and contracting words, and you, your partner and at least two witnesses sign the marriage schedule or register. Everything beyond that — readings, music, the reception — is optional and has no legal bearing.
Before the ceremony starts
Bring valid photo ID even though you presented it at notice, as some registrars check again on the day. Arrive with your two witnesses, who must be over 18 and able to understand what they are witnessing.
The legal minimum in the ceremony
Certain declaratory and contracting words are legally required in every civil ceremony, regardless of any other content you add. Religious ceremonies that register marriages must also include the legally required wording somewhere in the service.
Signing the schedule
Immediately after the declarations, you and your witnesses sign the marriage schedule (or register). This signature, not the vows themselves, is what legally completes the marriage.
What this means for you
- A wedding without the legal wording and signing is not a legal marriage, however elaborate it is.
- Choose witnesses who will definitely attend and are comfortable signing an official document on the day.
Official sources
Last reviewed: 17 August 2026 · Next review due 17 November 2026
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Related guides
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.