Weddings and Copyright

In addition to the preparation of the ceremony, there are the wedding invites, music, photography and many other are important things you need to plan. Unfortunately copyright of these items needs consideration

The copyright owner is able to sell, license or transfer the exclusive rights of a copyrighted work via a tangible item such as a book, or tape, or CD, or DVD, but still retains the copyright. This means –

You are able to read the book but, without a licence to do so, may not reproduce any parts of it
You are able to play the tape, CD or DVD for your own enjoyment but, without a licence to so, are not allowed to play it at any public gathering

It is very important that the Copyright Act be adhered to. Substantial penalties apply for any breaches of copyright.

Playing music at your wedding ceremony and reception

‘Layers’ of copyright can exist for one item. As far as music is concerned –

The law allows for music to be played during the wedding ceremony without the need for a licence, but if the ceremony is to be recorded or the lyrics written up in any printed order of ceremony, a licence will be required.
Music cannot be played at the reception without a licence being issued.
A reasonable portion of poetry and other published works can be read in public without needing a licence as long as the author of the work is acknowledged, but if it is written up in any printed order of ceremony, a licence will be required.