Has anyone had a statutory ceremony

[Mybobowler]

And had their baby or toddler present? While I wait for the registry office to reply, I thought I'd try to figure out how likely it is that we'll be allowed to bring in our toddler (2.5) on the hip and lap of one of our witnesses. There doesn't seem to be any firm guidance on babies or very young children, and I wondered the extent to which it's at the registrar's discretion. I can't see a legal reason why they wouldn't be allowed in?

We'll have to pay an extra £100 for a full ceremony just so we can bring her in (and then face a barrage on questions from our families about why more of them can't attend. Currently just planning on having a parent each to witness) but I'd be heartbroken if she couldn't be with us.

No idea on that sorry. Have they replies to you yet?

My neice was at mine and she was 2.5 years. I didn't even consider that she might not be allowed.

There is discretion. They tried to accommodate our children but couldn’t. Just too small a room
But they bought they as close as they could.

A photographer friend was also allowed in

They offered us a ring exchange too which wasn’t expected.

They were lovely.

We heard back yesterday and she will be allowed in - I'm over the moon, it'll be so special to have us all together.

So we've booked it! Nobody knows yet what we're planning. We've been together for almost a decade and we've finally accepted that we'll never be able to afford or justify the expense of a "proper" wedding.

We're going to ask a parent each to witness (only have one each, so no controversy there!) And we've booked a weekend at a spa hotel. I'm so excited and happy to be doing this! Just hope our families don't get too upset..!

Congratulations in anticipation of your wedding