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Naming and Renewal Ceremonies

Naming Ceremonies

Naming Ceremonies offer parents a chance to celebrate the arrival of their new child into their family. It gives both friends and family the opportunity to gather together and show their support for the child. Alternatively a naming ceremony can be used as a way of bonding families together, such as stepchildren into a new family. Naming ceremonies are not just for babies, children of any age can have a ceremony either individually or as a family.

This ceremony has been designed for people who wish to celebrate a special event in their lives, but may feel that a religious ceremony is not for them. The ceremony has no legal status and is simply an opportunity to bring together family and friends to share this special or significant occasion.

Renewal of Vows Ceremonies

This ceremony is for any married couple who wishes to celebrate the renewing of their wedding vows. Often these ceremonies are associated with a special wedding anniversary, but the ceremony is appropriate for couples at any stage of their marriage. Many couples who choose to get married abroad renew their marriage vows in a special event held for friend and family upon their return.

Booking a Ceremony

The ceremony will be lead by a fully trained Celebrant from Portsmouth City Council. There is a basic structure to both ceremonies but parents/couples also make choices about the important aspects of the ceremony, such as promises they will make to their child or each other. A basic ceremony will last approximately 15-20 minutes, whilst a more detailed ceremony will run for 30-35 minutes. In either case the ceremony is very personal to you, making your special occasion unique!

The ceremony can be held either at Milldam House or at one of our licensed venues. Fees vary according to the day of the week and size of the room required. If you would like to view either of our ceremony rooms before making a decision please feel free to call us and we will be happy to arrange a suitable time with you.

If you would like to make a provisional booking, arrange to view either of our rooms, discuss fees or have any further questions please feel free to contact:

The Ceremonies Co-ordinator
The Register Office
Milldam House
Burnaby Road
Portsmouth
PO1 3AF

Tel: 023 9282 9041

The office opening hours are 9.00am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday