Rutland Registration Service is now able to carry out weddings and civil partnerships in line with government guidance.
We must stress that, due to the existing restrictions, your ceremony will look and feel a little different to what was originally planned.
Government guidelines currently allow ceremonies of up to 15 people, which includes the couple, witnesses & guests (including children) but doesn’t include anyone ‘working’ such as the Registrars or photographer.
However, the actual number of people allowed will depend on the size of the ceremony room and each venue will have a plan of how many people it can safely accommodate under Covid-Secure guidelines. These numbers cannot be exceeded.
Rutland Register Office accommodates the couple and 2 witnesses only – we regret that social distancing does not allow for a photographer.
Catmose Cottage accommodates the couple, 2 witnesses, 6 guests plus one photographer.
Please contact our other Licensed Venuesdirect to establish their capacity.
It is now a legal requirement for all ceremony guests to wear a face covering on our premises and during the ceremony unless they have a valid exemption. Whilst it is not mandatory for the couple to wear a mask, we politely request that they do so for the sake of all present; the couple may remover their masks to speak their vows.
Social distancing rules between households must be observed. There is no option to be accompanied into the room by anyone not in your household. Guests may take photos from their seats & photographers must remain stationary throughout the ceremony.
Ceremonies will be reduced to the legal minimum; they will not be able to contain readings, promises or music. Couples will still be allowed to exchange rings but must hold the rings themselves.
For further information on how to book a wedding or to seek clarification please call 01572 758370 or email registrars@rutland.gov.uk.
Government guidance for small marriages and civil partnerships can be found here
