When it comes to officiating a ceremony, there is a lot of confusion and uncertainty as to what exactly a celebrant is; the services they can perform and the restrictions of their office. A civil celebrant can deliver a variety of celebration ceremonies, including a wedding or a civil partnership ceremony, a renewal of vows or a baby naming
ceremony.
The ceremony can be:
• held on any day of the week, even a Sunday!
• at any time; morning, noon or night
• in any venue, including ones that don’t have a licence
A celebrant ceremony has no restrictions and therefore could take place at any wedding venue or somewhere that is special to the couple, and, unlike a registrar, there is no restriction on the number of guests who can be invited.
The celebrant will meet with the couple information to develop a draft script for the ceremony. This will be totally unique and bespoke to the couple who have total control over the content. A celebrant will provide guidance on readings or poetry. If a prayer or blessing is required, this can be included at your request.
Would you like to write your own personal vows to each other, or perhaps you would like a little help? These vows can be kept secret from each other, with the celebrant on hand in case some support is required on the day. The couple can involve friends or family in the actual ceremony as they wish. A celebrant will normally only deliver one ceremony in a day, so is not rushing to the next appointment if the bride is a little late.
WHAT A CELEBRANT CAN NOT DO:
They cannot complete the legal registration of the marriage or civil partnership, only a registrar can do this. However, most couples attend the registry office some time before or after their ceremony with two witnesses to complete the legal paperwork. They can then look forward to their personal and unique ceremony with all their family and friends.
