As a Reverend, I am qualified through FuturFaith Ministry, HSE approved to Solemnise Legal Ceremonies in the Republic of Ireland and NI Direct in Northern Ireland. Even though I am a recognised Reverend, I am Faith Neutral; meaning I respect and welcome people of All Faiths, Mixed Faiths, Semi-Faith and No Faith. Your unique ceremony will be tailored to suit your personal style, beliefs, wishes and of course, love. 

What do I need to get married in Ireland?

Below is an overview of the legal process to get married in the Republic of Ireland. 
  • You must be over 18 years of age and have a minimum of three months' notice of your Intent to Marry with the HSE, they will give you a Marriage Notification Appointment. For example, if you plan to have your wedding day on 31st December, a minimum notice is required, no later than 25th September. Remember, the offices work different days and hours. 
  • If everything is in order, you both are present, your ID, Fee, etc. at this appointment; the Registrar will give you a Marriage Registration Form (MRF) - sometimes called a Marriage Licence or "The Green Folder". This is the document you will sign at the legal part of your wedding, so do not leave it at home on the day! Check out the HSE information website for an exact list of details required. 
  • For your marriage to be legal, you ensure you have my full title details, Rev. Vanessa Cooney, the Reverend who performs your ceremony. Your registrar will require these details. I am on the HSE Register of Solemnisers under FuturFaith Ministry, and I will sign the documentation that legalises your marriage.
  • The legal signing is done by you, the couple, your two witnesses who must also be over 18 and me, Rev. Vanessa Cooney, on your wedding day, in an appropriate setting, coherent, as defined and approved by the HSE.

Below is an overview of the legal process to get married in Northern Ireland. 
  • Worth checking out the following link for the list of District Registrars in Northern Ireland who are responsible for the registrations of all life events. Some offices may use an appointment system, so it's best to call by phone before visiting the office you choose. 
  • You must be over 16 years of age. Notice for all marriages must be given in the 12-month period before the date of the marriage , and there is a minimum of 28 days' notice. If you are under 18 years of age, your marriage will not be legally recognised in the Republic of Ireland. 
  • To give notice, you can download the following Marriage Notice Form. You will also need your Fees per Notice Form, Long Birth Certificate and Passport. It is worth your while to check out the how and when to give notice webpage to clearly define what you need. 
  • For your marriage to be legal, you ensure you have my full title details, Rev. Vanessa Cooney, the Reverend who performs your ceremony. Your registrar will require these details. I have been authorised by the Registrar General's office to conduct a legally binding marriage, nominated by FuturFaith Ministry, and I will sign the documentation that legalises your marriage.

Useful Links 
Republic of Ireland 
www2.hse.ie/services/births-deaths-and-marriages/getting-married/how/
www2.hse.ie/services/births-deaths-and-marriages/getting-married/book-appointment/
​www.gov.ie/en/publication/077ce8-register-of-solemnisers/

Northern Ireland
www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/how-and-when-give-notice-marriage
www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/district-registrars-northern-ireland
www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/marriage-notice-form
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