Introduction

Congratulations! You’re joining the first wave of same-sex couples in the United Kingdom to become civil partners. It’s uncharted territory, and while there has been plenty of newspaper coverage devoted to the debate over whether you should be ‘allowed’ the same rights that heterosexual couples enjoy (and a fair bit to David and Elton’s wedding, too), this is the first gay and lesbian wedding guidebook to help prospective civil partners in the UK plan their big day.

Planning for your civil partnership or wedding – call it what you will – can seem about as attractive as scaling a mountain in a snowstorm. But don’t panic! With a little help to guide you through the pathways, it’s straightforward to plan and budget for the registry, ceremony and celebration of your civil partnership from today right through to your honeymoon.