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Blessing in France - Civil Ceremony Before or After?

by Rosey1983 | 15 July, 2009 - 15:48

Hi,

Hope you can help.....

I am hoping to get married in France next August, but due to French Law I can only have a blessing, not a legally binding wedding.

My question is, can I have the official civil wedding in the UK after the blessing on my return to the UK, or does it have to be done before we go?

I just think i would feel a bit strange going to France, when I am already married. Would prefer to do 'the paperwork' on our return.

Does anyone know if this is possible?

Thanks

Becky

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by Jan Harney | 20 July, 2009 - 09:23
Jan Harney's picture

Hi Becky
A Blessing is actually Prayers of blessing after a Civil Marriage so you would need to be already married with official registers completed.But they can be made into lovely occasions and you may be able to tailor the service to include promises. I'm not sure about France, but in England a blessing can take part anywhere as there are no legal papers to file.

I understand that it feels strange to you but this is standard practice and people who get married abroad often have a blessing when they return home - putting their lovely dress back on etc.so that family and friends can share in it with them.

Some people only 'feel married' after the prayers and simply see the civil ceremony as the 'legal bit'.

Whatever you decide I hope you have 2 wonderful occasions
Jan Harney (Rev'd)
http://www.asineden.co.uk