Celebrant vs Registrar: Your Ceremony, Your Way

Planning a non-religious wedding in England or Wales?
You have two main options for your ceremony: a registrar or a celebrant. Understanding the difference can help you choose the experience that’s right for you.

When planning your wedding, one of the most important decisions is who will lead your ceremony. If you’re not having a religious service, your two main options in England and Wales are a registrar or a celebrant. But what’s the difference — and why does it matter?

Legal vs Personal: Understanding the Basics

Celebrants cannot legally marry couples in England and Wales. To be legally married or form a civil partnership, you must attend a separate civil ceremony at a register office or licensed venue, in the presence of two witnesses and one or two registrars.

Registrar-led ceremonies are legally binding and must follow prescribed wording. They can only take place at approved venues, such as register offices, licensed premises, or religious buildings registered for marriage. The only exceptions are marriages under the Jewish faith or the Society of Friends (Quakers), which may take place anywhere.

The Celebrant-Led Ceremony: Freedom to Personalise

A celebrant-led ceremony offers complete flexibility—you choose the time, location, format, and tone. Whether you want to include symbolic rituals like handfasting, write your own vows, or involve family and friends, a celebrant will work with you to craft a ceremony that reflects your personalities and values.

Building a Relationship with Your Celebrant

Couples typically meet their celebrant well in advance, building a rapport that helps create a relaxed, meaningful atmosphere on the day. Most celebrants only book one ceremony per day, giving you their full attention.

Ideal for Unique Venues and Destination Weddings

Celebrant-led ceremonies are ideal for:

- - Couples who want a personally designed, heartfelt experience
  - Those marrying abroad but celebrating at home
  - Anyone seeking a ceremony outside traditional venues

The Registrar-Led Ceremony: Legal and Limited

Registrar ceremonies are legally recognised, but they come with constraints. You won’t meet your registrar until shortly before the ceremony, often just 10 minutes beforehand, and the format is fixed.

Limitations

- - Readings must be non-religious,
  - Ceremony must include specific legal wording.
  - Symbolic elements are not permitted
  - Registrars may be scheduled for multiple ceremonies in one day, which can feel rushed or impersonal
  - You don’t get to choose your registrar, and continuity isn’t guaranteed

Why Registrars Aren’t Your Only Option

— Couples often hear about registrars first, but celebrants open up a world of choice

Many couples are told to “secure the registrar” as soon as they book their venue. The option of a celebrant is rarely mentioned, even though it offers a more personalised alternative. What isn’t always explained is that the legal and ceremonial parts of a wedding can be separated — giving you flexibility and choice

Separating the Legal and Ceremonial Steps

— Your celebrant ensures the ceremony feels authentic, whatever order the legal steps take.

Here’s how it works in practice:

- - You attend a short legal ceremony at your local register office before your wedding day.
  - You then enjoy your celebrant-led celebration wherever and whenever you choose, crafted personally for you.
  - In some areas, the legal ceremony may only be available after your chosen wedding day. Your celebrant will guide you in choosing the wording that feels right for you — whether that’s traditional phrases like “husband and wife” or language that reflects a commitment until the legal registration is completed. This way, your celebration is still personal and authentic, with the legal step following shortly afterwards.

— The best of both worlds: legal recognition and a ceremony that feels truly yours.

Celebrant‑Led Ceremonies: Designed Around You

— Every word, every moment, shaped to reflect your story.

Unlike registrar ceremonies, which follow a set script, a celebrant‑led ceremony is written with you, for you. From the opening words to the closing vows, your celebrant ensures the tone, structure, and symbolism feel authentic to your relationship.

Flexibility in Venue and Timing

— Your celebration, wherever and whenever you choose.

Whether it’s a woodland setting, a family garden, or a historic hall, celebrant ceremonies aren’t restricted by licensed venues. You decide the setting, the timing, and the atmosphere — your celebrant brings it to life.

— Your venue, your timing, your story.

Making the Right Choice for Your Ceremony

Questions to Ask Yourself

- - Do you want to write your own vows?
  - Would you like to include symbolic or cultural elements?
  - Do you want to feel relaxed and connected with the person leading your ceremony?

Final Thoughts

There’s no right or wrong answer — only what feels right for you. But if you value freedom, personalisation, and connection, a celebrant-led ceremony might be the perfect fit.

Your ceremony should be the heart of your wedding day — not just a legal formality. Whether you choose a registrar, a celebrant, or a religious service, make sure it reflects who you are and what you love.

— Make it personal. Make it memorable. Make it yours.