When planning your wedding, one of the first decisions you'll make is how to say your "I do's." While some couples opt for a registrar or a religious ceremony, others are discovering the beauty and flexibility of celebrant-led weddings.
Hertfordshire couples, in particular, are embracing this modern and personal approach. But what exactly is a celebrant wedding, and why are so many couples choosing this option?
What Is a Celebrant?
A celebrant is a trained professional who creates and leads personalised ceremonies. Unlike registrars, who follow a set script and are restricted to legal wording, celebrants have the freedom to craft a ceremony entirely tailored to you.
A celebrant is there to tell your story, highlight your values, and help you celebrate in a way that feels meaningful and memorable.
Celebrant weddings can be spiritual, secular, romantic, quirky, or anything in between – the only limit is your imagination. Planning a celebrant wedding in Hertfordshire or abroad? Learn more about how I can help!
Celebrant Weddings vs. Registrar Weddings
Celebrant-led weddings are fundamentally different from registrar-led ceremonies. Registrars must follow a standardised format approved by law and cannot include religious elements such as prayers, hymns, or blessings. Celebrant ceremonies, however, have no such restrictions. You can include anything from heartfelt readings and cultural traditions to unique rituals like handfasting, group shots, or even planting a tree.
The only thing to keep in mind is that celebrant ceremonies in England are not currently legally binding, so you'll need to register your marriage separately at your local registry office. Many couples choose to do this before or after their celebrant wedding – often a quick, low-key visit – leaving their celebrant-led ceremony as the main celebration.Â
Why Choose a Celebrant Wedding?
Here’s why celebrant weddings are growing in popularity, both in Hertfordshire and for destination weddings:
Unparalleled Personalisation: Every detail of your ceremony is designed to reflect your personality, love story, and values. From the script to the readings and rituals, it's all about you.
Flexibility in Location: Unlike registrars, who are limited to licensed venues, celebrants can officiate ceremonies anywhere – whether that's in a woodland, a family garden, or atop a mountain. (Fun fact, I love scuba diving and it’s a dream of mine to officiate a wedding under the sea!)
Inclusion of Any Elements You Want: Celebrant weddings allow for complete creative freedom. Want to incorporate a cultural or religious tradition, get guests involved in your ceremony, or have your dog as the ring bearer? Your celebrant will make it happen.
A Unique Atmosphere: Celebrant-led ceremonies feel deeply personal and often set the tone for the rest of the day. Whether you want it lighthearted, deeply romantic, or full of laughter, a celebrant creates the perfect vibe.
Time to Enjoy the Moment: Unlike registrars, who often have back-to-back appointments, celebrants dedicate their time entirely to you. There’s no rush, just a relaxed and meaningful ceremony.
Click here to discover what sets me apart from other celebrants and let’s create a your personal, heartfelt and unforgettable Hertfordshire or destination wedding ceremony together!
What Happens During a Celebrant Wedding Ceremony?
A celebrant wedding is entirely bespoke, but here’s an example of what it might include:
Pre-ceremony announcements to share any important announcements, such as the request for an unplugged ceremony.
A warm welcome and introduction by the celebrant.
Your unique love story, written and shared by the celebrant.
Personalised vows (optional but encouraged!).
The inclusion of rituals, readings, or cultural elements.
Exchange of rings or other symbols of commitment.
A declaration of marriage and celebration of you!
Interested in a celebrant wedding in Hertfordshire or abroad? Explore my services here!
Who Is a Celebrant Wedding For?
Celebrant weddings are perfect for couples who:
Want a ceremony that feels deeply personal and meaningful.
Are planning to marry in a non-traditional or unlicensed venue.
Want to include religious, spiritual, or cultural elements that registrars cannot offer.
Prefer a ceremony that reflects their unique relationship and story.
Want to build a relationship with their officiant before their wedding day
You’re having a destination weddingÂ
Don’t take my word for it! Check out my testimonials and see why couples love their celebrant weddingsÂ
How Do You Make It Legal?
While celebrant weddings in England aren’t legally binding, making your marriage official is straightforward.
You’ll simply need to book a legal signing appointment at your local registry office, which takes around 15 minutes and costs as little as £56. Many couples treat this as a formality, allowing their celebrant ceremony to take centre stage.
For couples based in Hertfordshire, legal ceremonies are priced at £56 and can be held at any Hertfordshire register office. Visit Hitched in Herts for more information.
Ready to Plan Your Celebrant Wedding?
A celebrant wedding gives you the freedom to design a ceremony as unique as your love story.
Whether you're dreaming of a celebration with family and friends in Hertfordshire, a destination wedding, or something in between, a celebrant ensures your big day feels truly special.
If you're ready to create a wedding ceremony that’s all about your story, values and relationship, I’d love to help bring your vision to life.
Get in touch with me today to start planning your personal, heartfelt and unforgettable celebrant-led ceremony!
Photo credits: Alex Tenters Photography, Photos by Rachel Wood, Daniel Ackerley Photography, Lauren Stacey Photography, Weddings by Emma and Sam
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