What if one or both of us is divorced/widowed?
This is not a problem, although we recommend submitting the m10 forms earlier, at least 6 weeks before the wedding date, in case of complications. You will have to show decrees or divorce/death before your new marriage schedule can be drawn up. Please note, a minister is still more than happy to marry you if you have been divorced.
Can we Renew Our Vows/ Blessing Ceremony
Yes we can arrange a renewal of vows service for you at any of the Gretna wedding venues. The cost of the hire of the venue/ministers fee would be the same as for a wedding, but there are no legal fees of course.
What are the legal costs?
The registration office charge is £60.50 for their paperwork with the marriage notice papers/Certificate (Ministers ceremony only). This is payable direct to the registry office when you submit your forms.
Minister/Registrar?
The vows spoken during a civil ceremony are fairly brief, with both parties making straightforward declarations. A ministers service is a religious ceremony and is more personable, incorporating some of the Gretna Green traditions and personal touches. A ministers fee is around £100, payable directly to the minister on the day. A registrars fee differs depending on which day of the week you are to marry; £170 (weekdays) £246(Saturday) £285(Sunday)and this includes the Marriage notice/certificate fee.(Prices as of 1st April 2007)
Do we have to pay everything now?
No, with our Customised Package option, we would only require the venue hire fee to secure your chosen date/time, all other services can be paid at a later date to suit you. With our Complete Package we would only require a deposit of £700 in order to secure all the services for you.
How soon can we marry?
We recommend giving 4 weeks notice, but it is possible to complete the legalities in 15 days.
How soon should we book?
As soon as you have decided on the date... for Saturdays we recommend as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
How long does the ceremony last?
This depends on whether your ceremony is being performed by a minister of religion or a registrar. Typically, a minister's service will be longer, lasting around 25 minutes, however each minister's ceremony differs slightly. A registrar will take around 15 minutes to perform the ceremony. Once the ceremony is complete, you and your witnesses must sign the marriage schedule. This can take from 5 to 10 minutes for all parties to complete the necessary legal documentation. The marriage Schedule is a legal document and is the same whether you choose a minister or registrar to perform the ceremony.
Do we have to reside in Scotland before the wedding?
No, so long as your m10 forms are received by the registration office at least 15 working days before the wedding date, you do not need to physically be in Scotland until the day of the wedding.
Can we marry on a Sunday?
Yes you can marry on any day of the week in Scotland.
Can I arrange a 'surprise' wedding for my partner?
By law both parties have to fill out separate marriage notice forms prior to the wedding. This means that both parties must be aware of the wedding beforehand, however we can keep the details of what you have booked a secret, pipers, cars, accommodation etc.
Recognized in?
A Scottish wedding is recognized as legal in all countries.
What does a Scotsman wear under his kilt?
;-)