Press Release - New Marriage Law

New Marriage Law creates opportunities for Alderney

The Bailiwick's new Marriage Law that comes into effect from March 1st will allow couples
freedom to marry at any venue on Alderney - including the island's beaches - once the
coronavirus restrictions have been lifted.

Last year Her Majesty in Council gave Royal Sanction to the Projet de Loi of the States of
Guernsey, entitled the Marriage (Bailiwick of Guernsey) Law 2020, which was then
registered in the Royal Court of Guernsey.

The new Law replaces the current Marriage Law which was considered outdated and did not
meet the requirements of modern society. It has simplified the administrative procedure
required before a couple are married, whilst ensuring that the necessary safeguards are in
place to prevent illegal marriages.

Under the new Law couples can choose to be married in the same way that is available
today or choose a number of different venues around the island, including hotels. It will also
be permitted to be married outside, be that in the garden of a house or hotel, on the cliffs
or on the beach.

There will also be a new category of Civil Celebrant licenced to solemnise marriages. Civil
Celebrants will undergo training arranged by the Registrar General of Marriages so that they
can help arrange the marriage and conduct a legal, recognised marriage ceremony. They will
operate in a private capacity, either self-employed or through one of the Island's businesses
that provide wedding services.r

"Couples don't need to be resident in Alderney before the wedding, so couples from
Guernsey, Jersey, France, the UK and beyond can visit Alderney with their guests for their
beautiful island wedding," said the Greffier, David Knight. "This is an exciting opportunity for
people to come forward as wedding celebrants, to provide bespoke Alderney weddings."

Anyone in Alderney that is interested in applying to become a Civil Celebrant should contact
the Alderney Court Office on 01481 820050 to discuss the opportunity before registering
with the Guernsey Registrar-General.