Getting Married at Shire Hall Gloucester: Why a Registry Office Wedding Might Be Perfect

When my wife and I planned our wedding, we knew we wanted something a little different. We chose to have our legal ceremony at Shire Hall in Gloucester before heading off to celebrate at Manor by the Lake. Looking back, it was the perfect balance between simplicity and personal meaning.

One of the biggest advantages of a Shire Hall wedding is the freedom it gives you. Because the legal part is sorted at the registry office, you can celebrate however you like afterwards. For us, that meant having a close family friend as our celebrant during our wedding celebration – something that made the day feel truly ours.

Yet, many couples still feel there’s a stigma attached to registry office weddings in Gloucestershire. But the reality is, they can be just as beautiful and meaningful as any other venue.

Why Choose a Shire Hall Wedding in Gloucester?

✅ Stress-Free Simplicity

Shire Hall weddings are straightforward and organised. You don’t need to worry about complicated restrictions, big guest numbers or hidden costs.

✅ Budget-Friendly Option

If you’d rather spend more on your honeymoon, a celebration meal or other priorities, having your wedding at Gloucester registry office is a smart choice.

✅ Beautiful Backdrops for Photos

Shire Hall itself has gorgeous architecture that looks fantastic in your wedding photos, especially when you add a little confetti outside. Even better, Gloucester Cathedral is just across the road – offering incredible photo opportunities with its historic stonework and sweeping views.

✅ Flexibility to Celebrate Your Way

You can have a short, intimate ceremony and then move on to any venue you choose – from a rustic barn to a luxury manor house.

Do You Need a Wedding Photographer for a Short Shire Hall Ceremony?

A lot of couples feel unsure about booking a professional wedding photographer if they’re only planning a short registry office ceremony. The good news? You absolutely can – and you should.

I live just 15 minutes from Shire Hall, so I’m always happy to capture small weddings, weekday ceremonies, or even last-minute elopements. Whether you want photography for just an hour or coverage that continues on to your reception venue, I can tailor everything to suit your plans.

Having photographed weddings at Shire Hall many times, I know exactly where to capture the best moments – from the entrance steps to the Cathedral courtyard. You deserve beautiful memories of your day, no matter how simple or elaborate your plans are.

Let’s Plan Your Shire Hall Wedding Photography

If you’re planning a wedding at Shire Hall in Gloucester and want natural, relaxed photos that reflect who you are, get in touch. We can chat about your ideas, timings and exactly what you’d love captured.

No two weddings are the same – and that’s exactly how it should be.

Captured by Chris – Candid Wedding Photography in Gloucester

📸 Covering Shire Hall weddings, registry office ceremonies and celebrations across Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds.