However, the law requires that there is no religious content in a civil ceremony, so you must agree music and readings in advance with the Superintendent Registrar of the district where the wedding is to take place, whose decision is final. Up to date lists of premises in Gloucestershire that have been approved as civil marriage venues are available from Register Offices, Shire Hall, County Information Points, and 'One Stop Shops' run with District Councils. They also appear at the back of this publication. To see the list, click here Register Offices accept bookings for weddings up to 12 months in advance. Each Register Office runs its own appointment system for weddings, and you should contact the Superintendent Registrar of the district where you wish to marry to find out when they are available.
Most offices also run appointment systems to make arrangements for marriages.
You are advised to telephone the office concerned before visiting them. However, mistakes do occur and regulations and local conditions may change, so you should check details with your local Register Office. Before you can be married by a civil ceremony in England or Wales, you must give notice of your intention to marry. You can give up to twelve months notice of your intention to marry. The notice is a legal document that must be given and signed by each person being married, so a friend or relative cannot give notice for you.