Portsmouth weddings and civil partnerships guide 2013

Weddings and Civil Partnerships in Portsmouth

www.portsmouth.gov.uk

Martin Lewis Photographer

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Martin Lewis Photographer

Portsmouth is one of the oldest naval ports in the country. It offers easy access from the M27 motorway, and its continental ferry port makes it ideal for those couples wishing to sail away for their honeymoon in Europe. The city is rich in history being the home to monuments such as Charles Dickens’ birthplace, Nelson’s ship HMS Victory and Henry VIII’s flagship Mary Rose.

Portsmouth Register Office is situated in Milldam House, a Grade II listed Georgian building. Built in the early 1800s, it has won awards for the renovation work carried out in 1994, when it was restored as much as possible to its original features. The main entrance to the building is dominated by the original wrought iron staircase and is perfect for brides who wish to make a grand entrance. Milldam House has a beautifully landscaped garden and is a perfect setting for your photographs.

There are now two rooms available for ceremonies.

Both rooms have been re-decorated in a style which is in keeping with the period of the building. Situated on the first floor, the Ceremonies Room, which holds a maximum of 45 guests, is fully air-conditioned and is spacious and elegant. This room is available on weekdays and Saturdays.

Downstairs there is an alternative room available for register office ceremonies only. This room holds 16 guests and a very simple ceremony is available in this room on weekdays and Saturdays at 9.30am. Please note: both rooms have been fully equipped with a hearing loop system for use by the hearing impaired.

If you would like to use this facility please let the Registrar know prior to your ceremony.

If you are looking for somewhere different to hold your marriage ceremony we can offer you an extensive range of venues to choose from. We have something for everyone from a ship to a theatre! A full list of our venues can be obtained from the Register Office or via the Portsmouth City Council website.

We hope that this brochure will offer you a full and comprehensive insight into planning your day, covering everything from your preliminary arrangements to the legal requirements.

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Approved premises Once you have provisionally booked with the venue of your choice, you should contact the Superintendent Registrar of the district where it is located. You will need to confirm that registration staff will be able to attend on your chosen date and discuss a time for the ceremony.

A locally set fee is payable for the registration staff to attend. This fee is in addition to any charged by the venue or those paid for the notices of marriage. Full details of these can be obtained from the Register Office or via the Portsmouth City Council website.

Booking your civil ceremony You can have a marriage or civil partnership in any register office or approved premises of your choice in England or Wales.

At Portsmouth Register Office we are happy to take a provisional booking from you up to two years in advance. This allows you to be able to make your other arrangements in plenty of time.

A non-refundable booking fee is applicable when making a provisional booking and this can be done in person or over the telephone by either one of the couple. We are unable to take bookings from friends or relatives unless the couple are overseas.

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Our refund policy In the unfortunate event that you may need to cancel your ceremony with us, Portsmouth Registration Service’s refund policy is as follows: • Twelve weeks or more written notice of cancellation: Full refund • Less than twelve weeks but more than four weeks notice: 50% refund www.kimcollinsphoto.com

• Less than four weeks notice or failure to cancel: No refund

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Martin Lewis Photographer

The legal preliminaries for marriage or civil partnership Before you can marry or have a civil partnership, each of you must give notice of your intention to do so, in person, in the registration district in which you live.

You must both have had your residence in England or Wales for the eight days immediately before giving notice. It does not matter if you move to a different address after the notice is given.

Each of you must give notice in person. The notice is a legal statement signed by you. Your partner, a relative or friend cannot give notice on your behalf.

The notice must be given to the Superintendent Registrar of the district in which you reside, regardless of where the marriage is to take place.

If you live in different registration districts, you must each give notice in your own district.

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If either of you are subject to immigration control you will be required to attend a designated register office together, after eight days residency in any district within England and Wales.

Each notice is valid for 12 months from the date it is given. The date and time of the ceremony may be altered within that year. However, a change to the place of marriage will mean that two new notices must be given.

Many register offices now operate an appointment system for taking notices of marriage, including Portsmouth. Please telephone the relevant office to check whether an appointment is needed and to confirm what documents the Superintendent Registrar will need to see.

Documents we will need to see When you give your notices you will need to show some documents to the Superintendent Registrar.

These documents will be used to verify your details such as name, marital status and nationality.

A current passport is the preferred document for proving your identity and nationality. If you have never held a passport we will need to see a copy of your full birth certificate, and possibly your mother´s full birth certificate, depending on your date of birth.

If either of you has been married or in a civil partnership before we will need to see proof that the marriage or partnership has ended. This will be either a decree absolute or conditional order or a death certificate for your late partner. In some cases the previous marriage or civil partnership certificate may also be required.

If either of you has changed your name by deed poll, change of name deed or statutory declaration, we will need to see the document.

If either of you is under eighteen, we will need to see proof that your parents or guardian agree to the marriage. They will need to complete a consent form, which you must collect from the Register Office before giving your notices of marriage.

Please remember that all documents must be the originals and any translations should be carried out by a third person.

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Martin Lewis Photographer

Your marriage ceremony When you arrive on the day of your ceremony the Registrar will need to see both of you prior to the ceremony in order to complete your marriage certificate.

On Saturdays there will be someone to greet you and your guests at Milldam House, and they will show you the way to the marriage waiting room. The Registrar will collect you from the waiting room and will then take you through to a private interview room, where they will check your details and complete your certificate.

If you are having a ceremony in the downstairs Ceremonies Room at 9.30am, you will be taken into the room together, before your guests enter, to complete your paperwork with the Registrar.

If you are having a ceremony in the upstairs Ceremonies Room, you may be seen separately if you prefer to do so.

The Registrar will take your guests through to the Ceremonies Room, but if you require specific seating arrangements please nominate one of your party to act as an usher. Please note that for health and safety reasons the downstairs Ceremonies Room holds a maximum of 16 guests and the upstairs Ceremonies Room holds a maximum of 45 guests. This includes children aged two and over.

If you are having a ceremony in the upstairs Ceremonies Room you can choose how you wish to make your entrance. Some couples like to enter the room together, whilst others prefer to keep to tradition and the Bride is escorted into the room by a relative or friend.

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The ceremony The ceremony is a simple one during which you will each make two statements. In the first you will each declare that you are free to marry the other person, this is called a declaratory statement. In the second you will each say that you take the other person as your husband/wife, this is called a contracting statement.

There is a choice of three statements for each of these and you will need to decide which two you would like to use. They are: Declaratory words 1. “I do solemnly declare that I know not of any lawful impediment why I .......... may not be joined in matrimony to ..........”, or 2. “I declare that I know of no legal reason why I .......... may not be joined in marriage to ..........”, or 3. By replying “ I am “ to the question “ Are you .......... free lawfully to marry ..........?”

Contracting words 1. “I call upon these persons here present to witness that I .......... do take thee .......... to be my lawful wedded wife/husband”, or 2. “ I .......... take you .......... to be my wedded wife/husband“, or www.kimcollinsphoto.com

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3. “ I ..........take thee .......... to be my wedded wife/husband“

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Exchanging rings The giving and receiving of rings can also form part of the ceremony. The choice of one or two rings is left to the wishes of the bride and groom.

Personalising your ceremony If you are having a ceremony in the upstairs Ceremonies Room you can choose to personalise your ceremony.

There are many ways in which the ceremony can be tailored to be more personal to you. The Superintendent Registrar is able to offer a choice of vows, readings and music, and as it is your special day your own suggestions will be welcome.

However, any additions to the ceremony must not have any religious or spiritual connection and they must be approved by the Superintendent Registrar at least two weeks prior to the ceremony taking place.

Due to time constraints you can choose either one reading or your own vows. If you would like any help planning your ceremony our staff will be happy to offer advice or suggestions.

Please note that these options are not available for ceremonies held in the downstairs Ceremonies Room.

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Signing the register At the end of the ceremony you will be asked to read through the details recorded in the marriage register.

You are asked to check the information carefully as corrections are very difficult to make once the register has been signed.

After you have both signed, the Registrar will ask the witnesses to come forward to sign the register. You are required by law to have two witnesses present at the ceremony who can sign for you. We recommend that your witnesses are eighteen years or over and they must be able to speak and understand English.

Photographs and videos Photography is permitted throughout the ceremony and there will also be an opportunity for your guests to take photographs afterwards. A video recording can also be made throughout the ceremony.

Confetti In order to keep Milldam House looking attractive and tidy for all its users, we would ask that confetti is only used when you are outside the building. Confetti and bubbles are on sale at Milldam House should your guests wish to purchase them.

Martin Lewis Photographer

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Martin Lewis Photographer

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Russell Squires

Your civil partnership ceremony On the day of your civil partnership the Registrar will need to see both of you prior to the ceremony in order to check your details on the schedule. To do this we ask you to arrive fifteen minutes early, however if you would like to be seen separately we can arrange to do so, but we do ask you to let us know before the day.

On Saturdays there will be someone to greet you and your guests at Milldam House, and they will show you the way to the waiting room. The Registrar will collect you from the waiting room and will then take you through to a private interview room, where they will check your details on the schedules.

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The Registrar will take your guests through to the ceremonies room, but if you require specific seating arrangements please nominate one of your party to act as an usher. Please note that for health and safety reasons the upstairs Ceremonies Room holds a maximum number of 45 guests, and the downstairs Ceremonies Room holds a maximum of 16 guests.

You can choose how you enter the Ceremonies Room.

Some couples like to enter the room together, whilst others prefer to be escorted by friends or relatives.

The ceremony The ceremony is a simple one during which you will each make two statements. In the first you will each declare that you are free to enter into a civil partnership, this is called a declaratory statement.

In the second you will each say that you take the other person as your civil partner, this is called a contracting statement. The statements used are: Declaratory words “ I declare that I know of no legal reason why I .......... may not register as the civil partner of ..........”

Contracting words “ I call upon these persons here present to witness that I .......... do take .......... to be my lawful civil partner”.

Alternatively you can choose to write your own declarations and vows to each other. Please see the section headed “Personalising your ceremony”.

www.kimcollinsphoto.com

Russell Squires

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Exchanging rings The giving and receiving of rings can also form part of the ceremony. The choice of one or two rings is left to the wishes of the couple.

Personalising your ceremony

Russell Squires

There are many ways in which the ceremony can be tailored to be more personal to you. The Superintendent Registrar is able to offer a choice of vows or readings and music, and as it is your special day your own suggestions will be welcome.

However, any additions to the ceremony must not have any religious or spiritual connection and they must be cleared by the Superintendent Registrar at least two weeks prior to the ceremony taking place.

Please note that, due to time constraints, for a Milldam House ceremony you can choose either one reading or your own vows. If you would like any help planning your ceremony our staff will be happy to offer you advice or suggestions.

Signing the schedule At the end of the ceremony you will be asked to read through the details recorded on the schedule. You are asked to check the information carefully as corrections are very difficult to make once the schedule has been signed.

After you have both signed, the Registrar will ask the witnesses to come forward to sign the schedule.

You are required by law to have two witnesses present at the ceremony who can sign for you. We recommend that your witnesses are eighteen years or over and they must be able to speak and understand English.

Alternatively, if you do not wish to hold a ceremony, then you can opt to have a simple signing of the schedule in front of two witnesses, held in the Superintendent Registrar’s office.

Photographs and videos Photography is permitted throughout the ceremony and there will also be an opportunity for your guests to take photographs afterwards. A video recording can also be made throughout the ceremony.

Confetti In order to keep Milldam House looking attractive and tidy for all its users, we would ask that confetti is only used when you are outside the building. Confetti and bubbles are on sale at Milldam House should your guests wish to purchase them.

Russell Squires

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www.kimcollinsphoto.com

www.kimcollinsphoto.com

Martin Lewis Photographer

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Martin Lewis Photographer

Our facilities Milldam House has its own car park at the rear of the building. Occasionally the car park can become busy, and should this happen parking is available in the surrounding streets.

The main entrance has access for disabled guests and there is a lift to the first floor. Our Ceremonies Room is fully equipped with a hearing loop system for use by the hearing impaired. A parent and baby room and nappy changing facilities are also available. If you have questions about the facilities we have, please contact us for further information.

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Russell Squires

Naming ceremonies These ceremonies have been designed for people who wish to celebrate a special event in their lives, but who may not feel that a religious ceremony is right for them.

The ceremony has no legal status and is simply an opportunity to bring family and friends together to share in a special or significant occasion.

Naming ceremonies give parents the opportunity to pledge themselves to the upbringing of their child and to ask supporting adults to promise their support and commitment to the whole family.

Renewal of vows

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These ceremonies are an opportunity for couples to rededicate themselves to their partner. These are particularly popular with couples who are celebrating a special anniversary or who have recently married abroad. Very often family and friends are unable to travel abroad for a ceremony and many couples want a family celebration when they return as well. A renewal of vows ceremony is ideal for this and offers couples a chance to rededicate their vows to each other in front of their friends and family.

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Civil ceremony venues

Phone: 023 9277 8604 Email: specialevents@hmswarrior.org Website: www.hmswarrior.org For a wedding venue of distinction, discover one of the most sought after locations on the South Coast; the elegant and historic HMS Warrior 1860. Promenade the decks whilst taking in the views and often stunning sunsets over Portsmouth’s historic harbour, as you receive the service and trappings of a 21st century wedding amid and abundance of history and Victorian fittings.

Licensed for civil ceremonies in the Captains Cabin for up to 25 guests and the Officers Half Deck for up to 100, and able to accommodate from 20 to 288 for formal receptions and 600 buffet style; Warrior offers flexible and spacious surroundings for weddings of any size.

The splendour of the ship as a unique wedding venue is complemented by a friendly, dedicated and professional events team who will co-ordinate every aspect of your special day. www.martinlewis.biz

Spitbank Fort Departure from Solent Forts Departure Lounge, Royal Clarence Marina, Gosport, PO12 1AX Phone: 023 9251 3887 Email: info@spitbankfort.com Website: www.spitbankfort.com Spitbank Fort, castaway from the cares of the every day, is your own personal island in the Solent and it offers a singular experience to all those who are welcomed aboard.

There is nowhere on earth like Spitbank Fort.

If you’re looking for something truly different, then your search is over – ceremonies and celebrations all are hosted in utter privacy and luxury.

The Crow’s Nest, Officer’s Mess, outside fire pit and hot tub combine with fabulous accommodation where every room has a sea view and your personal crew to attend to your every need.

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Unique, unafraid and determined to make a statement, Spitbank Fort has a whole host of facilities available to you that will make your wedding civil ceremony totally magical, held on your own private island.

Queen’s Hotel Phone: 023 9282 2466 Email: events@queenshotelportsmouth.com Website: www.queenshotelportsmouth.com Set on the edge of Southsea Common with an extensive private garden and views across the Solent, The Queen’s Hotel is the perfect wedding venue and we are licenced to hold civil ceremonies for up to 150 guests.

The beautiful Edwardian architecture and Baroque style lends itself perfectly to the sense of occasion. We have a dedicated Events Team who would be delighted to advise and assist you with every detail to make your day truly memorable.

BECAUSE YOUR DAY IS ALL ABOUT THE SMALL DETAILS Be confident your wedding will be just the way you imagined it. From small intimate gatherings to grander celebrations, the Portsmouth Marriott Hotel is picture perfect.

BECAUSE YOUR DAY IS ALL ABOUT THE SMALL DETAILS

Marriott Portsmouth

BECAUSE YOUR DAY IS ALL ABOUT THE SMALL DETAILS

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Southampton Road, Portsmouth, PO6 4SH Phone: 023 9231 6126 Email: emily.tudor@marriotthotels.com Website: www.portsmouthmarriott.co.uk 21

Civil ceremony venues

Spinnaker Tower Phone: 023 9285 7532 Email: hospitality@spinnakertower.co.uk Website: www.spinnakertower.co.uk The Spinnaker Tower makes a unique and truly inspirational venue for weddings and civil partnerships. The stunning views create an idyllic backdrop to set a beautifully romantic scene for your special day.

Photographer: Chris

Giles

Our dedicated wedding coordinator is on hand at every step to ensure every detail is taken care of and you have exclusive use of the tower for the evening.

View Deck 2, located at 105 metres, offers breathtaking views stretching up to 23 miles. This truly unique space can accommodate up to 70 guests for an intimate ceremony with a difference.

After the ceremony, you and your guests have the opportunity to take in the stunning scenery with champagne and canapĂŠs before your evening celebrations.

View Deck 1, located at 100 metres, will be transformed into the perfect setting for your wedding breakfast, with stylish floral arrangements decorating this unique space.

Photographer: Chris Giles

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The Waterfront CafĂŠ at ground level makes the ideal place to dance the night away with space for a DJ or live music.

Innlodge Hotel Phone: 023 9265 0510 Email: candb@greeneking.co.uk The Innlodge Hotel is an approved venue for civil wedding and partnership ceremonies.

The hotel offers two large function suites with capacities of up to 200, along with dedicated and experienced wedding co-ordinators to assist you with every little detail along the way.

Our wedding brochure consists of varieties of food and beverage packages to enable us to suit each individual need and budget.

The hotel itself boasts 74 bedrooms including two honeymoon suites both with jacuzzi baths, which are complimentary with our full day wedding package.

Portsmouth Guildhall Phone: 023 9283 4146 Email: enquiries@portsmouthguildhall.org.uk Website: www.portsmouthguildhall.org.uk/weddings Portsmouth Guildhall, a prestigious venue in the heart of the city, is a stunning location for your special day.

Portsmouth Harbour Yacht Club The Port House, Port Solent, PO6 4TH Phone: 023 9222 2228 Email: phyc@sunsail.com A unique waterside venue with stunning marina backdrop in the heart of Port Solent. Our striking vibrant club house is ideal for your wedding.

The historic building provides a most dramatic backdrop for your banquet or wedding at very affordable rates.

• Variety of beautiful rooms to choose from • Churches, Registry Office, hotels and local transport on the doorstep • Licensed for weddings and civil partnerships • Bespoke bar and catering service

We can tailor your requirements to create a truly individual and memorable occasion. This is matched with fabulous food and great service.

We are licensed to conduct civil ceremonies for up to 80 guests, wedding breakfasts for up to 110 and evening receptions for up to 200.

Call us today to book your special day.

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Civil ceremony venues

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The Royal Maritime Club Phone: 023 9283 5842 Email: info@royalmaritimeclub.co.uk Website: www.royalmaritimeclub.co.uk Portsmouth’s best kept secret – out at last!

A fabulous wedding or civil partnership reception venue situated within minutes of Portsmouth’s Register Office and Historic Dockyard.

The Royal Maritime Club is also fully licensed for the wedding or civil partnership ceremony, with areas seating up to 200 guests.

The two main suites can cater for receptions of all sizes with an enviable reputation for providing great food and ambience. You really are made to feel very special.

Our experienced management team is on hand to offer personal quotations specifically designed to suit your special plans at very competitive prices.

Your guests can stay over in one of our 100 comfortable bedrooms and enjoy reduced rates, a hearty breakfast, our leisure facilities and maybe explore Gunwharf Quays shopping area, only a short walk away.

For details of our packages and a show round, please contact the Events and Banqueting Department.

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BEST WESTERN Royal Beach Hotel St. Helens Parade, Portsmouth PO4 0RN Phone: 023 9273 1281 Email: events@royalbeachhotel.co.uk Website: www.royalbeachhotel.co.uk Situated on the seafront in Southsea with seven function rooms available, we offer a superb location for your wedding ceremony and/or reception. Our experienced, professional team will assist you in every way to ensure you enjoy a happy and successful day.

We have a variety of formal and informal packages to offer but whichever you select, value for money is guaranteed and we extend to you an invitation to view our facilities and discuss your requirements.

Reception venues

Mountbatten Leisure Centre Phone: 023 9262 6505 Website: www.leisurecentre.com The Mountbatten Leisure Centre with its newly refurbished function suites can accommodate up to 300 guests. With both suites having an adjacent balcony, which overlooks the surrounding parkland and the Sails of the South, guests can enjoy a drink in the sunshine, making this an ideal venue for all wedding breakfasts and receptions.

personal, efficient and friendly service. They have also created a variety of sumptuous and elegant menus for your special day, and these are complimented by a range of exciting and flexible beverage packages to suit your style and budget.

We are also happy to announce, new for 2013, that we can now offer all this in conjunction with our Celebrant, Blessing Wedding Ceremonies.

You will also have the opportunity of consulting with the dedicated events team, who pride themselves on offering a

For more information contact Clair or Susan on the number above or visit the website.

The Pyramids

Our events team will happily tailor a package to you whether you choose to spend all or just part of your special day with us.

The Pyramids is a superb seafront location, with three spaces able to cater for 50 to 500 or more guests.

Ideal for your wedding party with wonderful vista views over the Solent.

A variety of bespoke packages are available, including fully catered options.

Please contact us for further details and to arrange a viewing.

Phone: 023 9279 9977 Email: functions@pyramids.co.uk 25

Venues outside of Portsmouth

If you are choosing a venue outside of Portsmouth you will need to contact the Register Office that will attend that venue, in order to book a date and time for your ceremony.

Please note that booking and attendance fees charged by other districts may vary from those of Portsmouth Register Office.

Cams Hall Estate Golf Club Cams Hall Estate, Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 8UP Phone: 01329 827 222 Email: camshall-sales@crown-golf.co.uk Website: www.camshallgolf.co.uk Set amidst 200 picturesque acres lies Cams Hall Estate Golf Club, with its enviable reputation as being one of the most beautiful yet affordable venues on the South Coast.

Its stunning landscaped patio and beautiful lake provide the perfect backdrop for those romantic fairy tale shots.

Extensive menu choices are available for wedding parties of between 20 and 120 day guests and up to 150 for the evening celebration, although the catering team will strive to tailor packages to suit your specific requirements and budget. www.kimcollinsphoto.com

Priddy’s Hard Phone: 07787 503 455 Email: events@pnbpt.com Website: www.explosion.org.uk The Grand Magazine is a truly unique venue for any wedding day. This magnificent Grade 1 listed building, originally built in 1771 as a gunpowder store for the Royal Navy, now sits 26

Superb midweek package offered Sunday to Thursday inclusive and discounted late availability options available upon request.

within a beautiful historic site rich in character and history, a perfect setting for any wedding ceremony and reception.

The Explosion Museum, Priddy’s Hard, Gosport sits on the edge of a delightful camber basin on the western shores of Portsmouth Harbour, with stunning views across to Portchester Castle and The Spinnaker Tower.

This is an ideal backdrop for photographs which you will treasure for the rest of your lives together.

Set on a working farm in the stunning West Sussex countryside, the restored barns and beautiful surroundings are built and run using the latest environmentally sustainable technology.

As well as its appealing green credentials, the venue is also unique in its rural setting with its luxurious, high-spec design which features concrete polished floors and landscaped gardens.

The barn complex consists of a fully licensed ceremonies barn, a 200-year-old Threshing Barn for evening receptions and a luxurious bridal suite. There is also ample outdoor space with sumptuous sofas and fire pits for creating a truly magical evening setting.

Southend Barns Phone: 01243 641247 Email: enquiries@southendfarms.co.uk Website: www.southendfarms.co.uk

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Caterers and cakes

Cakes o’Licious Phone: 023 9271 6951 or 07932 424 691 Email: cakesolicious@virginmedia.com Website: www.cakesolicious.co.uk www.facebook.com/Cakesolicious We understand that each couple’s needs are different, and our creations can be tailored to meet your specific requirements in budget, taste and design. We specialise in bespoke yet affordable wedding cakes and emphasis is placed on tailormade designs, expertly skilled sugar craft and delicious flavours.

During your free, no obligation consultation at Cakes o’Licious we will be able to create the perfect wedding cake for your big day, making it forever memorable.

Not only will it look fantastic but it will taste just as great.

A beautiful focal point of your wedding day.

We deliver within a 50 mile radius of our workshop in Cosham.

Delivery to venues within 10 miles of the studio is free!

Buffet Connections Catering for your Special Day Phone: 023 9281 8880 Email: buffetconnections@yahoo.co.uk Website: www.buffetconnections.co.uk We are a family business providing excellent quality catering for reasonable prices.

Our buffets range from a basic finger buffet at £4 per person up to a luxury fork buffet at £15 per person.

All of our buffets are fully customisable. Please contact us directly with your exact requirements for a quote.

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Transport

Craneswater Wedding Cars Ltd Phone: 023 9287 6984 Email: enquiries@craneswaterweddingcars.co.uk Website: www.craneswaterweddingcars.co.uk Craneswater Wedding Cars is a small family owned company with over 26 years of wedding car experience. We are able to offer Vintage Rolls Royce’s, Rolls Royce Silver Shadows or modern saloons, all of which are chauffeur driven by our trained staff.

We provide a professional service to high quality standard for your special day. Coloured ribbons can be arranged as well as champagne to make your day complete. Prices start from just £145.

Unit 12-13 Partnership Business Park, Rodney Road, Milton, Portsmouth, PO4 8DF Phone: 023 9278 7666 Website: www.aquacars.co.uk Make your wedding day extra special.

Choose from a 1933 Vintage Replica Asquith Taxi, Rolls Royce, Bentley or a Mercedes.

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Martin Lewis Photogra

Hamilton Wedding Cars Phone: 023 9278 0095 / 07955 577 729 Email: admin@hamiltonweddingcars.com Website: www.hamiltonweddingcars.com We are a family business covering Portsmouth, Southampton, Chichester, Petersfield and all surrounding areas. We aim to provide a luxury car hire service for all occasions: weddings, proms, anniversaries, birthdays etc.

JM Wedding Cars Phone: 023 9282 7897 Email: jmweddingcars@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.jmweddingcars.com We are an independet family-run Portsmouth based business offering beautiful, well-loved classic cars for that special occasion at affordable prices. Be it transport for the bride, bridesmaids, groom or a civil partnership ceremony, we will be happy to provide a unique experience for that special day.

Choose from beautiful 1930s style Beaufords in 3 colours, Chrysler 300cs, white Rolls Royce or even an 8 seater Asquith Bus! We provide suited chauffeurs and also your choice of coloured ribbons to decorate your chosen car accordingly.

We look forward to hearing from you and wish you all the best for your up-coming special occasion.

No job is too far – call us for a quote!

If you are planning a vintage, classic or rustic wedding then our 1950s & 60s romantic, beautiful saloons have all the classic charm to fit in with these trends.

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Transport

Barringtons Limousines Ltd Vice-Chairman of www.wed-suppliers.co.uk Phone: 01329 221 784 or 07931 786 321 Website: www.barringtonslimousines.co.uk When only the best will do!

• 30 cars available. (Pairs available for all models) • Family business established over 30 years.

• Vintage, convertible, Rolls Royces, classic Jaguars, Mercedes, Stretch Limousines.

• Weddings and anniversaries.

• Airport transfers.

• West End shows.

• Business travel.

• Birthday parties.

• Shopping trips.

• Kids days.

• Proms.

• Valentines Day. • Sporting events.

Call for an updated list of cars.

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Approved by

Portsmouth Wedding Taxis

Portsmouth Wedding Taxis Phone: 07713 480 988 / 023 9226 4461 Email: pwt2@btinternet.com Website: www.portsmouthweddingtaxis.com At Portsmouth Wedding Taxis we understand the need for a quality service at a great price, we also understand it’s the bride and groom’s big day so we will do our best to make sure it’s very special.

We have three 5 seater London Taxis and our London taxi limousine, which is the only one of its kind in the UK! The taxis are painted in an old English white with deep red

leather interiors – perfect for adding a vintage charm to your wedding day, our taxis are also wheelchair accessible.

Our prices start at £99 and are frozen until 2015 and we have special package deals if 2 taxis or more are required.

We are a proud member of National Association of Wedding Car Professionals (NAWCP).

Looking for a Great British icon?

Then look no further...

Nominated for the Wedding Industry Awards 2014 Photographers

Kim Collins Photography Phone: 023 9238 2400 Email: info@kimcollinsphoto.com Website: www.kimcollinsphoto.com Kim Collins has over 25 years experience photographing weddings on four continents, although she has always been based in the Portsmouth area and is familiar and respected in the most popular wedding locations.

She puts her success down to her personal yet professional approach and is happy to capture the day with her unique style, whether it is a church or registry office wedding, a civil partnership, blessing or renewal of vows.

Japics Phone: 023 9259 5222

07711 192 892 Email: clicks@japics.co.uk Website: www.japics.co.uk Japics are two ladies who are loving the work they do!

Penny has 25 years experience in the photographic business.

Based at her studio in Horndean, she covers Hampshire & the surrounding areas.

Through unobtrusive photography Penny will create memories that last forever. The day will be captured through a mixture of contemporary reportage and classic style photography, including the details you have given very careful thought to.

She will provide you with the whole story of your wedding day in a beautiful coffee table book of 200 images, for you to treasure for the rest of your lives together.

Photography 31

Photographers

Martin Lewis Photographer

Blitz Photography

Phone: 01243 389 803 Mob: 07761 157 296 Email: info@martinlewis.biz Website: www.martinlewis.biz

Phone: 023 9250 1291 Email: info@blitzphotography.co.uk Website: www.blitzphotography.co.uk www.facebook.com/BlitzPhotographyLtd

Stylish, creative and relaxed photography, combining a FUN approach with affordable pricing. Qualified with the MPA, experienced and popular local wedding photography specialist, Martin Lewis is very familiar with many Portsmouth venues.

Stylish coffee table or traditional albums, or high res images on DVD – flexible options and discounts for mid week weddings, starting from as little as £295.

Blitz Photography blend traditional wedding photography with a contemporary reportage style. With 25 years experience in the newspaper industry, chief photographer Steve Reid has the skills to tell your story. We tailor our coverage to fit in with you so that you can enjoy your wedding day.

Packages include a complimentary pre-wedding consultation, venue visit and one or two photographers. We will supply a disc with 300 images from which you can choose the pictures for your wedding album which we design and layout.

Please contact me to get full details and to check my availability for your special day.

You are welcome to visit our studio in Gosport anytime.

Make Light Work Phone: 023 9234 8444 Email: info@makelightwork.com Website: www.makelightwork.com A husband and wife team who simply love weddings.

Our mission: to create contemporary wedding photography which beautifully captures the essence of your day. Tell us what’s important and unique to you – we love to hear your ideas so we can understand your vision and translate this into creating fabulous natural images.

All of your images will be carefully edited and colour corrected to make sure you look your best.

Martin Lewis Photographer

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Photographers

Co-operative Florist Central Square Lakeside, Western Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 3FE Phone: 023 9288 3556 Website: www.co-opflorists.co.uk The Co-operative Florist team will help make your day the beautiful dream you’ll always remember.

We are experienced at creating the highest quality Bridal bouquets whether in a traditional, modern or contemporary style. Our team of Wedding florists will discuss with you your ideas for the big day, and will suggest a variety of options and choices in a range of styles.

From the bridal bouquet through to thank you flowers, our skilled florists are full of ideas for the bride and groom to create the perfect wedding and reception designs.

You can also complete your wedding package and choose one of our luxurious limousines, finished with ribbons and flowers of your choosing.

Come and visit our shop at 1000 Lakeside, Western Road, Portsmouth and see our wide range of beautiful fresh flowers, vases, chocolates, ribbons, balloons and much, much more.

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Suppliers

Phone: 07557 735 995 Email: weddings1606@yahoo.co.uk Website: www.flowersbylucy.org.uk We believe beautiful flowers needn’t cost a fortune, and we never sacrifice quality.

We know that planning your event is an exciting time and we will ensure that the function room is dressed to your express wishes so all your ideas are realised.

Our enthusiasm for our work is always apparent and we simply love flowers with all their incredible colours and textures, the way they can transform a room or event into something spectacular, and their ability to make people smile!

Arona Creations Phone: 07767 640 177 Website: search ‘Arona Bridal’ on Facebook Portsmouth’s only one-stop shop for everything weddings!

From beautiful gowns and accessories to venue styling and flowers, photographers, cakes and fun little extras like candy carts and starlight backdrops, Arona has it all covered.

Fast expanding, with a long list of satisfied customers, Arona has supplied venue styling to The News’ Business Awards for 2 years running and is constantly adding new items and ideas to make your special day unforgettable.

We dress your venue and return the next day to collect everything so you can get on with your celebrations in style!

Martin Lewis Photographer

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Entertainment

The Wedding Crashers Singing waiters, chefs and secret guests Phone: 023 9261 4212 / 07760 177 579 Email: grace@eventcrashers.co.uk Website: www.eventcrashers.co.uk

Giggle Booth Phone: 014 8958 8865 / 07811 118 423 Email: hello@giggleboothhampshire.co.uk Website: www.giggleboothhampshire.co.uk 5 STEPS TO HAVING A GIGGLE: 1. Your guests choose their props 2. Enter the booth and use the interactive touch screen

Give your wedding the “WOW” factor when our hidden staff and secret guests suddenly give an impromptu performance during your wedding breakfast.

Astound your guests with this surprise act, which will have your family and friends crying, laughing and dancing in the aisles!

For more entertainment options please see www.mgproductions.co.uk

3. Six seconds later two copies of the print, each with four photos pops out 4. One copy gets stuck in the book and your guest writes a personal message – the perfect alternative to a traditional guest book, that will bring a smile to your face each time you look at it 5. The other copy is taken away by your guest, printed with the name of the bride and groom and wedding date for them to stick on their fridge or mantlepiece, to remember your special day forever!

The Party Hosts Phone: Gary 07722 282 037

Paul 07973 617 153

Alan 07887 870 192 Email: info@thepartyhosts.co.uk Website: www.thepartyhosts.co.uk Do you want your wedding to be unique and personal to you, and not just the same old thing everybody’s seen before?

Witnessing a couple’s love for each other is a fantastic experience but for it to really leave a lasting memory you need to plan carefully. To make it a really special day for your guests as well as yourselves, they need to feel engaged in what’s happening. Finding ways to make it personal and sharing elements of your love story so that everyone understands how special your day is can really make your celebration stand out.

As you plan your wedding, put your own personal mark on every single aspect – put your fingerprints on every page.

You choose colours, flowers, dresses and the like, and the soundtrack to your big day should be as individual as you are.

The whole day can be enriched by music, not just the evening reception party. You can select the music for your arrivals, wedding ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast, early evening as well as the party.

For more creative ideas to make your wedding entertainment and disco totally unique contact Gary, Paul and Alan: The Party Hosts.

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The Register Office Milldam House Burnaby Road Portsmouth PO1 3AF

Designed by: design@portsmouthcc.gov.uk Front cover: Martin Lewis Photography

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You can get this Portsmouth City Council information in large print, Braille, audio or in another language by calling 023 9282 9041. www.portsmouth.gov.uk

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of advertisements or sponsorship in this publication, Portsmouth City Council cannot accept any liability for errors and omissions. We will not accept any responsibility for claims made by advertisers and their inclusion in this brochure, and this should not be taken as an endorsement by Portsmouth City Council.

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Published July 2013

Telephone: 023 9282 9041 Email: registrars@portsmouthcc.gov.uk