What’s the difference between a marriage and a civil partnership?
Marriage
- according to the law of this country, the union of two people of the same or opposite sex, voluntarily entered into, for life, to the exclusion of all others
- formed by saying the prescribed declaratory and contracting words in a legal ceremony
- married couples cannot call themselves civil partners for legal purposes
- cannot be converted into a civil partnership
Civil partnership
- a legal union of two people of the same or opposite sex, made by a formal written declaration
- the declaration can be said out loud or read by the partners before signing the schedule. no ceremony is required, although one can be held after the declaration has been made
- civil partners cannot call themselves married for legal purposes
- same sex couples can currently convert their civil partnership to a marriage
Which should you choose?
Bear in mind:
- both give similar legal rights
- your personal preference, values or future plans may guide your choice
- if you’re unsure which to choose, seek independent legal advice
Want to compare more?
For a detailed comparison, see Compare marriage and civil partnership on GOV.UK . Please note this is subject to update following recent legislation changes.
Organising your day
Here are some ideas for you to consider. You may wish to include music in your ceremony, which can be played at appropriate moments during the ceremony such as while the guests are arriving or during the signing of the schedule.
Readings
We have a selection of readings (PDF 313.2KB) 
which you can choose from. Alternatively, you can supply your own non-religious reading.
Getting married abroad
You will almost certainly be required to provide certain documents and, in some instances, a certificate of no impediment that is available from the register office. Your travel agent will be able to assist you in the first instance. Please e-mail life.events@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk for more information.