Renewing your Vows and Commitment

Renewal ceremonies are for any couple, of any age and married or in a civil partnership for any length of time who wish to celebrate their union in a unique and personal ceremony.

How can we book a renewal ceremony?

Please telephone Wirral Register Office on (0151) 606 2020 (Monday – Friday).
For approved premises and Licenced venues – please check availability with venue first before contacting us. View a list of approved premises in Wirral.

Can we have a renewal ceremony if the original ceremony took place abroad?

Yes, many couples who have their original ceremony abroad choose to renew their vows or commitment in a special event for family and friends on their return home.

What does the ceremony include?

The renewal ceremony is as individual as the couple arranging the celebration. The ceremony can be used to involve children, renew vows and commitment, re-dedicate rings or give new rings. It can also include readings and speeches from the couple or their guests.

Is the ceremony legally recognised?

No, they have no legal status and are purely ceremonial.

Who can arrange a ceremony?

The couple together or one of the married parties can arrange a ceremony as a surprise – unlike a marriage or civil partnership this is possible as it is not a legal ceremony.

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony usually lasts about 15 to 30 minutes depending on the readings and number of options you select.

Will we receive a certificate?

Yes, at the end of the ceremony the couple will be asked by the celebrant to come forward and sign a record of renewal, which will be presented to them.

Do we have to produce any documents?

Yes, a copy of the marriage or civil partnership certificate must be produced when booking the ceremony.

Who conducts the ceremony?

The ceremony is conducted by a fully trained professional celebrant from Wirral Register Office.

Where can the Ceremony be held?

The ceremony can be held at either Birkenhead Town Hall or Wallasey Town Hall. Ceremonies can also be held at venues in Wirral licensed for Civil Weddings or Civil Partnerships or at other venues like sports and social clubs or community halls, if agreed by the celebrant.

View a list of approved premises in Wirral.

How much notice do we need to give?

As the ceremonies are non-statutory (they have no legal status) there is no set time limit. However, you may need around a month to compose the ceremony, organise a celebrant to preside and invite any guests.

Can I only renew in the area I live in?

No, you can renew your vows anywhere in the country, but you need to inform the Register Office in the district where the celebration is to take place.

What is the cost?

Please telephone (0151) 606 2020 for details.

What time can we have the Ceremony?

Ceremonies at Wirral Register Office in Birkenhead Town Hall and at Wallasey Town Hall are held:

  -  Monday to Friday (9.00am to 11.30am and 2.00pm to 3.30pm)
  -  Saturday (10.00am to 12.30pm)

Timings at other approved premises and licenced venues are more flexible and ceremonies can be held up to early evening with the agreement of the celebrant.

These ceremonies are offered as a partnership between Wirral Council and Civil Ceremonies Limited.