The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act was passed in 2013 and implemented in 2014. The first same-sex marriages took place on 29th March 2014. Any premises licenced for civil marriages and civil partnerships were automatically licensed to hold marriages for same-sex couples from that date.
Couples having already booked civil partnerships, may choose to go through a marriage instead. We welcome gay couples and same sex marriages and offer a unique and flexible approach to planning your special day ensuring that each civil partnership celebration benefits from our many years of experience.
A civil partnership is formed once both individuals have signed the civil partnership document in the presence of a registrar and two witnesses. Before registration, each party will have to give notice to the appropriate authority.
As a popular wedding venue, we are happy to share our wealth of experience with you to make your day one to remember.
Being a gay-friendly (LGBTQ+) Wedding Venue we welcome gay couples and same sex marriages and offer a unique and flexible approach to planning your special day ensuring that each celebration benefits from our many years of experience.
A civil partnership is formed once both individuals have signed the civil partnership document in the presence of a registrar and two witnesses. Before registration, each party will have to give notice to the appropriate authority.
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From 31st December 2019, civil partnerships have been made available to opposite sex couples. We are licensed to host these ceremonies as well as same sex civil partnerships.
So you ask.. what is the difference between a marriage and a civil partnership?
This is our understanding - you should always check with the relevant authority to help you decide which is best for you.
The ceremony - there is a difference for those in a civil partnership. A marriage is formed when a couple exchange spoken words, whereas a civil partnership is when the second civil partner signs the relevant document. Marriage is often taken in the form of a religious or civil ceremony. However a civil partnership is entirely a civil process and there is no requirement for a ceremony to take place. However, to mark this important celebration with your family and friends, you can do so here in one of our beautiful ceremony rooms or in our grounds.
Ending a relationship - If married, a couple who are living together can separate informally and there is no need for intervention of the court. However, if you’re in a civil partnership, you will need to go to court because although you can separate informally, you need officials to dissolve the partnership. Even then, you must have lasted for a year before you can apply. The only other way is to get the partnership annulled, or obtain a separation order - you don’t have a time scale on that.
Marriage is a historic institution that is recognised around the world as being legally binding, something that is quite different compared to civil partnerships. Despite being legally recognised in a number of countries, there are some destinations where a civil partnership is not. This can cause issues if you’re attempting to emigrate, or in the case of an emergency.
In England, Wales and Scotland, both opposite sex and same-sex couples can marry in a civil or religious marriage ceremony. All couples may marry if they are above 16. They must also be free to marry, ie single, widowed or divorced. Meanwhile, a civil partnership is defined as a legally-recognised union of a couple. The couple have rights that are basically identical to those of marriage.
To arrange your civil partnership or same sex marriage ceremony at the Glen Yr Afon House Hotel, you should firstly make contact with The Monmouthshire Registration Service who will guide you through the process of giving notice of your intention to form a civil partnership or same-sex mariage. They can be contacted on 01873 735435. You will then need to wait for fifteen days, the official notice period. On the day of your partnership, you will both be required to sign the registration together with your two witnesses.
After your civil partnership ceremony or same sex marriage in either the Ballroom, Oak-panelled Dining Room or Library, you can enjoy a red-carpet drinks reception served in our well-maintained gardens with the backdrop of our unique hotel framing your photographs. Your guests can then enjoy a sumptuous meal from our extensive wedding breakfast menus.
Licensed Ceremony Rooms
We have a choice of four licensed rooms so are able to accommodate groups of all sizes.
A civil marriage ceremony does not include any religious content, and you have the option to include readings, poems, vows and commitments to reflect your own feelings and desired atmosphere at your partnership ceremony. Whether you want a large and lavish celebration or more intimate gathering, you can be assured that your special day will be remembered for the rest of your lives.
A wide selection of menus are on offer for your wedding reception before your special day concludes with entertainment of your choice.
To discuss your requirements for a same-sex marriage or civil partnership venue in South Wales, please contact Carol Knight on 01291 674819 (direct line) or 01291 672302 (main reception).
Our wedding co-ordinator will be happy to discuss your individual requirements with you.
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