As a young ( well I would like to think so!) and modern wedding celebrant based in Richmond Upon Thames, I am here to guide you through the thrilling but sometimes overwhelming world of wedding ceremonies.
The most common question raised is “what exactly is the difference between a registrar and independent wedding celebrant?”. Let us now shed some light upon this mystery.
The Wedding Celebrant: Curating Your Own Personal Love Story
If you’re planning a wedding that reflects your unique personalities and love story, you might be considering a wedding celebrant. But what exactly does a wedding celebrant like myself do?
Traditional weddings often come with a set script and prescribed rituals. A celebrant, however, throws that out the window! We are all about creating a ceremony that is personalised, meaningful and unique.
Expect heartfelt readings, touching vows and rituals such as handfasting that truly resonate with you. No stuffy formalities here! In addition, a celebrant led wedding does not have to be held in a licensed venue. On the contrary, the ceremony can be held anywhere; in a garden, on a beach, in a castle or even in a hot air balloon!
Wedding celebrants are on hand to foster a warm and intimate atmosphere.
For example, as a south west London based wedding celebrant, I will meet with you to get to know you as a couple. Expect deep conversations about your love story, your hopes for the future, and your ideal ceremony style. I will then craft a unique ceremony script that reflects your personalities and values. While I cannot legally marry you, I can guide you through the legal requirements. I am also on hand on the day to support you not only as a celebrant but as a friend to ensure the day runs smoothly.
So in essence, if you are looking for a wedding ceremony that is intimate, personal, meaningful and heartfelt, a celebrant led wedding may be the perfect choice for you!
Registrars: The Conductors of the “Legal Bit”
Registrars are appointed by local authorities to conduct the legal part of your wedding and to ensure the legal formalities are in place and met. Yes their role is important, however, they usually bring a more formal approach to your ceremony void of any personalisation.
For example, the ceremony script will include standardised wording and will be the same for all couples. In addition, your ceremony can only be held at a licensed venue hence there are limitations when it comes to venue choice and timings.
A registrar led ceremony may be for you if you do not mind a precise, regulated and standardised ceremony.
I have included a little summary below which I hope will help you figure out which is the right fit for you and to unravel the ongoing mystery!
Summarizing the Difference
Registrars:
- Who they are: Employed by the local authority (like your council).
- What they do: Legally marry you. They are the only ones who can perform a legally binding civil ceremony.
- Ceremony style: Generally short and formal, following a set script.
- Where they can marry you: In a registry office, approved licensed venues, or sometimes at home (with specific requirements).
Independent Celebrants:
- Who they are: Self-employed professionals who specialize in creating and conducting personalized wedding ceremonies.
- What they do: Conduct a beautiful and meaningful ceremony that reflects your unique love story. They cannot legally marry you.
- Ceremony style: Highly flexible and adaptable to your wishes. You can have a religious, non-religious, or themed ceremony.
- Where they can marry you: Almost anywhere you choose – gardens, beaches, castles, even hot air balloons!
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities and preferences. Do some research, read reviews, and meet with potential registrars and celebrants to find the perfect fit for your wedding.
Tríona x