The Signing of the Marriage Register usually takes place after a couple have exchanged their vows, have shared their first kiss as a married couple and can finally relax, take a deep breath and say “we did it!” before signing all the legal documents.

You can do this as soon as you have shared your first kiss as a married couple, or right at the very end of the ceremony before you walk out, or even in private after all of your guests have exited the ceremony space! As long as you have declared your legal declaration first, you are welcome to sign the register at any time you choose.

Sitting down to sign the register also gives the couple a moment to finally breathe normally again and get a high five from me for keeping it all together and doing a brilliant job in getting through all those nerves!

It’s also a great time to debrief and discuss the sometimes funny unfolding of events of the ceremony, and where 99% of couples almost always say “that went so fast!”.
Yes, after all the planning, waiting, and exciting lead up to the big day, it really does go incredibly fast, so my biggest piece of advice is to BE PRESENT.

Really take notice of every moment as it happens.
Don’t think about someone you saw in the third row, don’t think about whether the sky is changing, and don’t think about that first glass of champagne you’re really looking forward to.

Be present and ENJOY EVERY MOMENT.

Contribute spontaneously in any way that feels right, notice the tears, the emotion, the glint of mischief and love in your partner’s eyes as you exchange vows, and enjoy that blissfully joyous first kiss to claps and cheers from your family + friends.

Sign the register, smile for photos and take a big breath as you step forward for the first time as a legally married couple! Then enjoy the memories you made forever. x

Oh, and to answer to the number one question I get asked by most couples “what name do I sign on the marriage certificate?” Your usual name that you have always gone by!
You have to actually sign the certificates before you can be considered legally married and eligible for a change of name!

You may wish to see some more of my Top 10 most asked questions HERE!