Civil Wedding

A civil wedding is a non-religious, legally binding marriage ceremony conducted by a government official (registrar) rather than a religious figure, taking place in a register office or approved venue. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

• Non-Religious:
  Civil weddings are secular ceremonies, meaning they do not involve religious rituals or readings. 

• Legal Binding:
  A civil wedding is a legally recognized marriage, resulting in a marriage certificate. 

• Officiant:
  The ceremony is conducted by a registrar, a government official. 

• Location:
  Civil weddings can take place in a register office or an approved venue licensed for civil ceremonies. 

• Customization:
  While the ceremony must include certain legal requirements, couples can often personalize it with readings, music, and vows. 

• Legal Requirements:
  Couples must exchange vows, including contractual words required by law, and there must be two witnesses present. 

• Notice:
  Couples need to give formal notice to the superintendent registrar of the district where they intend to get married. 

• Civil Partnership:
  Civil partnerships are also conducted by registrars and are similar to civil marriages in that they are secular and legally binding. 

• Example:
  In the UK, couples can choose to have a civil ceremony in a register office or an approved venue, and can include readings, songs, or music, as long as they are not religious.