52nd Edition·September 12–13, 2026·Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall
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Event Planning · Before I Do Bridal Fair

How to Plan
Your Civil Wedding

Getting married doesn't have to be elaborate to be meaningful. A guide from Simply Beautiful Events on planning a simple, intentional civil wedding.

Civil wedding ceremony

Let's face it — it is every couple's dream to get married with style. But getting married can be expensive, and if you're practical, you might prefer an intimate ceremony with just your closest family and friends, or even just a civil wedding with two witnesses.

Our friends from Simply Beautiful Events shared a guide on how to plan a simple yet meaningful wedding. The good news? There are only three things you actually need to get married:

A Marriage License — make sure to have all your requirements ready before applying.
A Solemnizing Officer
Two Witnesses — to stand by your side

That's all you really need. Just accomplish those three things and you're almost there.

Who Can Solemnize Your Marriage?

Any incumbent member of the judiciary — within their court's jurisdiction (e.g., a Supreme Court justice can solemnize marriages anywhere in the Philippines)
Any ship captain or airplane chief — only in cases of marriages in articulo mortis between passengers or crew
Any military commander of a unit to which a chaplain is assigned — in the absence of the chaplain or during a military operation
Any consul-general, consul, or vice-consul — in the case of marriages between Filipino citizens abroad
Civil wedding ceremony

Photo: Liz Rañola Photography

Other Things to Consider

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When and Where

Pin your date and book a venue where you can have both your ceremony and reception — this is the most economical option. Coordinate with your solemnizing officer about the date and location.

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Wedding Bands

Simple wedding bands will do to symbolize your union. You don't need to go elaborate — what matters is what they represent.

👥

Guests

It's entirely up to you whether you have just you and your witnesses, a small group of family and friends, or something in between. Celebrate your union at a nearby restaurant or at home — whatever feels right.

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Nice-to-Haves (Not Essentials)

A gown, a bouquet, souvenirs — none of these are essential, but they're all wonderful touches that can make your civil wedding feel special and personal.

Remember: Regardless of the type of wedding ceremony you're having, you will undergo the same process of getting married. The marriage is what counts — the celebration is how you honour it.