A celebrant-led wedding ceremony is quite different to a ceremony officiated by a registrar. It really depends on how you envisage your wedding day and how personal you want it to be.
Can a celebrant legally marry couples?
A celebrant-led ceremony is not legally binding, but an opportunity to say your own vows, choose meaningful readings and have your story told to your nearest and dearest. The legally binding part of the marriage process needs to take place at your local registry office.
Usually, couples head off to the registry office at their local council to complete their legal paperwork along with two witnesses. You might do this a few days before your celebrant-led wedding ceremony (or you can do it afterwards, whichever you prefer). This method is becoming more and more popular, as you can get the paperwork out of the way one day and head out for a celebratory meal afterwards, and then celebrate your big day with friends and family at a venue of your choice with a celebrant whenever it suits you.
What happens at a registry office wedding?
Registrar's offices are a busy spot; you will book a set time for your ceremony based on the registrar's availability; it's likely that there will be ceremonies happening in there before and after yours. For a registrar to marry you, you must attend either a registry office or have them come out to a licensed venue. Your slot will usually last around 15 minutes, during which you'll sign your paperwork. In terms of personalising your registrar's ceremony, you cannot include any religious or spiritual wording.
Check with your registrar's office to see if you are allowed to put up any decorations, as this may depend on how many weddings they have booked in that day.
But I've seen that my local registry office offers a 'celebrant' registrar. What's all that about?
That label is used by registry offices because two registrars must attend your legal ceremony; so, they may label the one hosting the legal ceremony as the 'celebrant registrar' (while the other one completes the paperwork). Don't confuse this with an independent celebrant, who offers you a tailored, unique service and creates a ceremony wherever and whenever you want it to be.
If you like the sound of a celebrant-led wedding, book in your free 15 minute Getting-to-know-you call with Spellbound Ceremonies. I can't wait to celebrate with you!
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