The difference between a registrar and a wedding celebrant

Let me start by clearing up a common question: a celebrant doesn’t legally marry couples.

Only a priest or a registrar (a civil servant) has the authority to do that. So, if a traditional church wedding isn’t for you, the registrar is your only legal option.

But here’s the truth: registrar ceremonies are often short, impersonal, and limited in both time and location. You may never even meet them until the moment you sign the contract. That might be legal — but it’s hardly the kind of wedding you’ve dreamed of.

This is where a celebrant-led wedding changes everything.

A professional celebrant creates personal, bespoke ceremonies that reflect you as a couple. Just as you choose your venue, your music, your food, and your style, you also deserve to choose the ceremony that sets the tone for the entire day.

Want something romantic and formal? Casual and lighthearted? Or maybe a ceremony infused with spiritual, cultural, or even pagan elements? With a celebrant, you’re in control.

There are no restrictions, no rigid rules, and no rushing to fit into someone else’s schedule. Instead, you get a ceremony that feels authentic, meaningful, and truly yours.

That’s why wedding planners and venues love working with celebrants — the atmosphere is always relaxed, joyful, and full of energy. I can honestly say: I love what I do, and that joy is felt by everyone. Because it’s not just paperwork. It’s not just a contract. It’s a celebration.

My advice is simple: do what my wife and I did — take care of the legal marriage registration separately — either before or after your wedding day. All it requires is filing the paperwork, having the registrar say the 14 legally required words (yes, only 14!), two witnesses, and your signatures. The whole process can take less than 10 minutes.

Think of it like buying a house: you sign the contract in the notary’s office, but you certainly don’t throw your housewarming party there.

Your real wedding day is the celebration — the moment you wear your wedding dress, cut the cake, drive off in your wedding car, and enjoy the party at your dream venue.

And at the heart of it all is your personal, meaningful ceremony, in the place you’ve always imagined. A ceremony created just for you, filled with memories to treasure for a lifetime — and that’s exactly what I provide as a wedding celebrant in Fuerteventura.

I hope this clears up any doubts! If you have other questions — or even ideas you’d love to see us write about on the blog — I’d love to hear from you!