Ceremonies By Sally

You have a date in the diary, a venue too, but there is still so much to think about, and importantly who do you want to create and deliver your ceremony? Choosing between a celebrant and a registrar for your wedding day can be difficult. Your options for your wedding ceremony are not always clearly explained by venues or the registration service.

So let me explain the difference…

Firstly, the registration service

The registration service is affiliated to local councils, and registrars are employees who register births, deaths and marriages. Venues which hold a licence can have two registrars attend to conduct a ‘legal’ wedding, but this brings limitations. It will be formulaic, little personalisation is allowed, and you will also have to answer questions and check details individually with the registrars, about 30 minutes before your ceremony – in the middle of hair and make-up in some cases! Registrars often manage multiple weddings in a day, so timing and venue options are limited. You may not meet the registrar conducting your ceremony until the day of the event. There are rules too, such as no alcohol in the ceremony area, and no religious content. You will exchange declaratory and contracting vows which are all part of the verbal legal contract during the ceremony. Of course the upside is you have no further steps to fulfil any legal requirements…

A celebrant wedding ceremony (and getting the legal bit done too)

A celebrant is an individual trained to conduct weddings and other ceremonies, working closely with a couple to create a unique, heartfelt experience. Giving more flexibility and personalisation. Unlike a registrar, a celebrant has no legal restrictions, meaning the couple can have their ceremony anywhere, from a secluded beach to their family garden. Celebrants can incorporate symbolic rituals, religious or spiritual, for example hand fasting, as well as cultural elements – making them ideal for couples who want a more customised and meaningful ceremony.
One key difference is that celebrant ceremonies are not legally binding. Couples choosing a celebrant will typically arrange a quick registry office visit beforehand to complete the legal paperwork. All register offices offer these and they should only cost between £50 – £80 as a rule. This legal requirement is a minor step for many couples, who feel the personal, meaningful ceremony they get with a celebrant is worth the extra effort.

Which option is right for you?

If you want a legally binding ceremony, a registrar may be the right choice. But if you envision a unique, personalised ceremony reflecting your story, values, and the energy level you want to feel on the day, a celebrant wedding ceremony is a far better fit. Many couples find the extra step for legal formalities worthwhile for the intimate, memorable experience that celebrants offer. Ultimately, the choice between a registrar and a celebrant depends on how you want your ceremony to feel — structured or free-flowing, traditional or uniquely yours.

So get in touch, ask me questions – I’m here to help

https://www.sally-smitherharvey.co.uk/contact/

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