31/10/2025
Is there a difference? ….
Absolutely! Don’t make the mistake of thinking that both offer the same service.
It is confusing so let’s be really clear ……..
Independent Celebrants create personalised wedding ceremonies written from scratch for each couple they work with.
Independent Celebrants have all the time in the world to get to know the couples they work with. This can be in person, by phone, online meetings, WhatsApp- in fact any way that suits you. Talking to a couple’s wider family and friendship group is often part of the process
Independent Celebrants can offer blended ceremonies that reflect different faiths and cultures.
Independent Celebrants offer complete flexibility over time and location.
Independent Celebrants can offer lots of assistance with vow writing, wedding anxiety etc.
For couples who are part of the LGBTQ + or neurodiverse community, being able to personally choose the Celebrant who best suits them is often of huge importance.
I believe these differences are key to
understanding the two different roles
Registrars do a great job of registering marriage and these days, in their marriage ceremonies, they offer more choice than they ever did before. But, they simply do not have the time and resources to offer the choice and flexibility that an Independent Celebrant does.
Whatever they decide to call themselves they will continue to be bound by Government rules and regulations- Independent Celebrants are not.
I want all couples to be able to make an informed choice - just make sure if you are planning a wedding you know the difference !
Book a simple statutory registration ceremony for you and 2 witnesses at your local Register Office - complete the legal paperwork for your marriage - and then focus on creating the perfect wedding day ceremony with a Celebrant.
If you want a Celebrant not a Registrar for your wedding in the Cotswolds dm me for more information- I’m always happy to clarify any confusion.
