Do you need witnesses to elope? It is one of the most common questions I hear, usually from couples who want it to be just the two of them. The answer depends on which part of your marriage we are talking about.
I'm Leon, an accredited celebrant and photographer based in Llandudno. Here is how witnesses work when you elope in Wales.
Your Legal Ceremony Needs Two
In England and Wales, a civil ceremony must have at least two witnesses, as GOV.UK explains. This is the short register office ceremony that makes your marriage legal, often called a "2+2".
Your Elopement Ceremony Needs None
A celebrant-led ceremony is not the legal part, so it needs no witnesses at all. That is where your story, your vows and your chosen place come in, and it can be just the two of you. Is eloping legal in Wales? explains the two parts in full.
Who Can Be Your Witnesses
Many couples ask a parent, sibling or close friend. Others ask two friends to meet them at the register office, then head off alone afterwards. Your register office will confirm who can act as a witness, so check with them when you give notice.
If You Do Not Want Anyone There
Some couples do the legal part quietly a day or two before, then elope alone. You keep the heart of the day completely private.
Bringing Your Closest Few
If you would like loved ones at your elopement too, we keep it as small as possible. Kids and dogs are welcome.
Packages
The Signature is £3,250 and the Ultimate is £4,950 on the packages page, each with a ceremony written from scratch, photography, Polaroids and keepsakes. Both include a year of The Love Story Collection, and the Ultimate adds a free Twilight Ceremonies Renewal of Vows, while the Signature gives 15% off Twilight.
Anywhere You Choose
You can choose anywhere for your elopement ceremony: home, your garden, elsewhere in the UK or abroad.
Two witnesses for the paperwork, and as few or as many as you like for the part that matters most. Enquire about your elopement and we will plan both parts together.