Be Careful! Regarding the Signature on the Marriage Certificate. It is reassuring to discuss in advance whether to write your name in kanji or in English.
2022.08.30 published
Should the name on the marriage certificate be in Kanji or in English?
When signing the marriage certificate during the ceremony.
First, the husband writes his name, and then the bride writes hers...
What I want to discuss in advance is
【Whether to write the signature in Kanji or in English】
That's the point!
If you prefer English, definitely…
For example, from the bride's perspective,
"It's a Christian ceremony, and we chose a stylish design for the marriage certificate, so the name has to be in English!"
But if she hasn't shared that thought...
There are many men who would normally write their full names in Kanji, right?
(Just like with marriage registration forms!)
Since the groom signs first, even if you think English would be better, you have to go along with it if he writes in Kanji.
Therefore, it's very important to discuss whether to match in Kanji or in English together.
If using English...
If you're going to keep it in English,
Decide whether to use
- full names
- first names only without the last name
It’s also something to sort out together!
Depending on the design of the marriage certificate, there are many styles with narrow signature fields, so some couples decide to just use names (like Shota or Ayaka).
Moreover, if you want to display it as decor after the ceremony, just using names might look simpler and more stylish! ♡
Cursive (calligraphy) is also recommended
It’s stylish and recommended to challenge yourself by writing the names in English using cursive (calligraphy).
Flowing, smooth letters like those of calligraphy artists are truly admirable, aren’t they? ♡
It would be amazing to be able to write like that!
But even if you can’t write in cursive, you might be able to practice and write your name only?
As a tip, some brides have lightly sketched it in pencil first! (This applies to paper marriage certificates only.)
Then, all you have to do is trace over it, making it less likely to end up in errors! ♡
Important notes about signing the marriage certificate*
So, that was the key points to take note of when signing the marriage certificate*
Whether to write in Kanji or in English can often be influenced by assumptions or misunderstandings about what is usually expected, so it’s definitely something to discuss together.
Brides who have specific preferences or wishes should make sure to communicate them clearly.