Church, Celebrant or Registrar?

Planning your wedding can bring a lot of questions: Should it be in a church? At the local registry office? With a registrar at an approved venue? Or somewhere completely personal, with a celebrant leading a ceremony just for you?

Every couple’s vision is different, and knowing your options is the first step to creating a day that truly feels like yours.

CHURCH

Many couples choose their local church, while others may pick a church that holds special significance through family or personal connections. There’s something truly magical about exchanging your vows in a place of worship, surrounded by the blessing of God. You can include music of your choice, as well as religious or non-religious readings and poems. If you’ve been divorced, there may be some restrictions, but it’s worth speaking with your local vicar or priest to explore the possibilities.

REGISTRY OFFICE

A registry office is a simple, legal way to get married. It requires just two witnesses, with no music or readings, making it the most affordable option (currently £68.50). Some registry offices also offer alternative ceremonies with different guest options — check your local council’s website for more details.

REGISTRAR VISIT

If you have a specific venue in mind, you can ask if it’s licensed for legal weddings. A registrar will attend and lead your ceremony, often using standard wording with some opportunities for personalisation. Planning can usually be done online. In North Yorkshire, the fee is currently £575. You won’t know exactly which registrar will be present, but they will legally marry you at your chosen venue.

CELEBRANT-LED CEREMONY

If you want a fully personalised ceremony in any venue — a barn, a lakeside spot, a garden, or a hotel — a celebrant-led ceremony could be perfect. While celebrants cannot currently legally marry couples in England and Wales (unlike Scotland or some European countries), many couples choose a two-stage approach: a legal registry office service, followed by a bespoke ceremony with family and friends.

Celebrants work closely with you in the months leading up to your wedding. Often, couples form a real friendship with their celebrant, which allows them to feel completely at ease. You can personalise every element — vows, music, readings, prayers, poems, or even guest participation like raising a toast. There are also unique traditions to explore, such as hand-fasting, sand ceremonies, or “Jump the Broom.” Fees vary, so it’s worth chatting to a few celebrants to find someone who matches your style and budget.

YOUR DAY. YOUR CHOICE.

Think about what will make your ceremony truly yours. Do you want traditional vows, or would you like to write your own? Indoors or outdoors? Music, readings, poems? Something unconventional like hand-fasting? There’s no right or wrong answer — it’s about what you both want and what will make your day special and unforgettable.