Registry Office vs Celebrant: What you should know before you go...

Looking for something low fuss?

Doing a destination wedding and just want the legals covered first?

Planning a big party, but don’t want to splurge on the ceremony?

If any of these sound like your situation, you may be toying with the idea of a Registry office wedding. So here are some things you should know before you head down that route.

1. It isn’t necessarily cheaper

“Don't make the mistake of thinking that a Registry Office wedding will save you money!”

Often couples who are just after the legal paperwork think going down the Registry route will be cheaper and easier. With fees in Sydney starting from $442 on a weekday before 4pm and starting from $557 on Friday evenings and weekends, it won’t necessarily save you money.

Many Celebrants, including myself, will offer a Legals Only ceremony option. Which essentially gives you the same service as a Registry office. Often this price will be competitive or even cheaper with the fees charged for a Registry ceremony.

2. You will have to fit in with their schedule

Like most government services, you obviously need to work around their opening hours and book an appointment slot. So your ideal day and time may not be available. By choosing a Celebrant, you can obviously find someone who is available on your day of choice.

3. There are limited location choices and capacity limits

Although you do get to have some of your loved ones witness your Registry Office wedding should you wish, you are limited to room capacity limits, which can be as low as 12. This includes you, your witnesses, the person officiating and any photographer you have. That only allows 6 additional people!

A Celebrant will often be happy to accommodate a greater volume of guests, and you are likely only limited by the location you choose to hold the ceremony in. With so many fantastic vantage points around Sydney, why be limited to solemnising your marriage in a room when you could have harbour views.

You can still make it personal

If you are just after the paperwork, why not explore my Legals Only ceremony option. I would be very happy to help you make sure you still have a wonderful intimate and personal experience worth remembering.