Civil Marriage / Civil Partnership: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Your local Registrar's aim is to help you through the process of the preliminary arrangements to the registration of your civil marriage or civil partnership. You will have many questions to ask, this list may help.

Do we have to be resident in Alloa?

Providing both of you are 16 years of age or over and are otherwise not prevented from entering a civil marriage or civil partnership, anyone can arrange to have their ceremony in Clackmannanshire. This extends not only to the whole of Scotland, but includes the rest of the United Kingdom and, providing the qualifications are met, residents from almost any part of the globe.

How much will it cost?

The level of fee for your ceremony is dependent on the service provided. Additional charges may be made depending upon where your ceremony takes place, or the nature and extent of any special requirements you may have. The Registrar will be pleased to discuss charges with you and will confirm the total fee payable in advance.

What time should we arrive?

This depends on the location. For the office, it is sufficient for you and your guests to arrive 10 minutes before the time appointed for your ceremony. Out of consideration for other couples whose ceremonies may come after yours, it is important to arrive not later than the time set for the ceremony. Importantly, guests who arrive after the ceremony has started may not be allowed into the ceremony room.

Should we arrive together?

Whether the principal participants in the ceremony (and guests) arrive together is a choice which is entirely yours. The Registrar will try to accommodate you whatever you decide.

Can I be given away in the Ceremony?

Certainly. Although it is not essential, this can be built into the ceremony if you wish. It would be helpful if you discuss the requirements and intentions with the Registrar at the time of booking your ceremony.

How long does the ceremony take?

This usually depends upon the size of your ceremony party but normally the ceremony will last around 25 minutes. Your Registrar can advise.

Can we advise our guests about parking arrangements near the Registrars office?

There is a large car park behind the Registrars Office which can be used by ceremony guests.

Special arrangements are made to allow the principal participants' car access right up to the door!

Parking for ceremonies held at other locations is by arrangement with the owners of the property.

Are the ceremony guests allowed to throw confetti?

Yes of course, but in the interests of those attending for ceremonies that may be taking place immediately after yours, please use confetti outside only. For any guests who may have forgotten their supply, small boxes of bio-degradable confetti are available within the Registrar's main office.

Is it permissible to smoke within the Registrars Office?

There is a general no smoking policy in public areas in all of our buildings. In the interests of safety, and out of consideration for others, you are asked to observe this requirement.

What information will the Registrar require from me?

Along with the more formal information, your Registrar will need to know some details to help tailor the day to your needs.

For example:

How do you wish to enter the room, and with whom?
Will there be attendants?
What type of recorded music would you prefer? Have you plans for any live music?
Will rings be exchanged?
Would you like a verse or poem incorporated into the ceremony?

How do I contact the Registrar?

Please see the Registration homepage for opening hours and contact details.

When should I make initial contact with the Registrar?

Please take advantage of the opportunity to meet with the Registrar as early as you can. You will have the chance to view our own ceremony rooms, and, regardless of the ceremony location you choose, you can discuss the range of options available to you. You will also have the chance to make a provisional booking to secure the preferred date for your civil ceremony.

Where can I have my photographs taken?

Immediately after the ceremony, the Registrar will allow time for photographs.

Clackmannanshire offers a wealth of locations which are ideal for taking those scenic shots after the ceremony. Regardless of your ceremony location, your photographer will find that any of the many nearby attractions available will provide an exciting backdrop .

If you choose one of our own ceremony rooms, you will find that within one minutes drive from the Registrars Office (3 minutes walk) is the Councils Headquarters Buildings at Greenfield. The park surrounding Greenfield has many seasonal flowering shrubs, mature trees, and other features which make exciting backdrops for photographs.

Cochrane Park in Alva offers similar attractions and the whole of the Hillfoots area from Muckhart to Menstrie offers tremendous photographic settings. For the more adventurous it may be worth considering a visit to Alva Glen, Castle Campbell in Dollar, or Gartmorn Dam at Sauchie your photographer can advise.