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Here’s What You Really Need to Know
This is one of the most common questions I get asked by couples:
“Do we need a registrar if we have a celebrant?”
And honestly? It’s a good one.
There’s no quick yes or no. So, let’s talk it through — simply, clearly, and without the fluff.
Where Are You in Your Wedding Planning?
You’ve picked your date, booked your venue, maybe even started dress shopping — and now it’s time to figure out the legal side. That’s when you’ll probably come across this celebrant vs. registrar decision.
Let’s break down what each one actually does.
So, What Does a Registrar Do?
A registrar is the officiant who legally marries you. They’re authorised by the local Council to complete the legal formalities — that means checking you are who you say you are, signing the paperwork and saying the legally required words.
This can happen at the registry office, or they come to your licensed venue (usually for a higher fee). The ceremony itself tends to be short and standard, a few set words, and job done. You may be allowed some readings or music but these will have to be agreed with the registrar beforehand.
Perfectly valid. But not very personal. You will have met a registrar when you visited to present your paperwork and book the date, but you will not have met the registrar who will be officiating at your marriage.
And, What Does a Celebrant Do?
Now here’s where things get exciting.
A celebrant - me - creates a ceremony that’s all about you — your story, your personalities, the way you want the day to feel.
There’s time to include personal vows, readings, symbolic rituals, a few laughs, and even space to remember loved ones. The whole experience is created with you, from scratch, with as much or as little input as you like.
The only thing a celebrant can’t do is the legal part.
But don’t worry — I’ve got that covered.
How to Make It Work: The Best of Both Worlds
Think of it as a two-part process
Do the legal part at the registry office.
Pop in on a weekday with two witnesses. Sign the paperwork, say the legal words, and you’re married in the eyes of the law. It can take about 15 minutes, you don’t have to exchange rings and can cost as little as £60.
Then have your personal, celebrant-led ceremony wherever you want
This is the good bit. You can get married at a wedding venue or hotel, woodland, your nan’s garden, a field with a tipi… wherever feels right.
Your ceremony can be relaxed, fun, meaningful, and totally unique to you. And I’ll be there, not just to lead it, but to make sure your ceremony runs smoothly on the day.
You Can Do Both on the Same Day (But…)
It is possible to have both a registrar and a celebrant at the same licensed venue on the same day.
But just so that you know — it can be expensive. You’d be paying for both of us, and registrars charge more to come out to venues. If you're looking for something truly personal without the extra cost, doing the legal part separately makes so much more sense.
Why Do Couples Choose a Celebrant?
If you want:
A ceremony that tells your story and not have to choose a generic script
Flexibility with timings and location
A relaxed vibe with the option to include family, pets, or personal rituals
A ceremony that actually feels like you
…then a celebrant-led ceremony is probably the one for you.
Now let’s now come back to the original question
Do You Need a Registrar?
Yes — for the legal paperwork. You can do that part either before or after your celebrant-led wedding.
What you don’t need is a registrar-led ceremony if what you’re really looking for is something personal and memorable.
The Bottom Line
For a ceremony that makes your guests laugh, cry, and say “that was so them” — then go for a celebrant.
And if you’re leaning that way already... well, I know someone who’d love to help.