One of the first questions couples ask when they start planning is how much the ceremony itself actually costs. If you’re going the registry office route, here’s what you’re looking at.
Registry office wedding costs at a glance
The average registry office wedding in the UK costs around £1,342. But it can be much less than that. Some registry offices offer a basic ceremony with room hire for as little as £57.
Here’s what makes up the total:
| Average total cost | £1,342 |
| Basic ceremony rate | From £57 |
| Ceremony room hire | Around £200 |
| Giving notice fee | £35 per person |
| Marriage certificates | £11 each |
| Admin and postage fees | From £10 |
Prices vary by council area, so check with your local registry office for exact figures. These smaller fees add up, so it’s worth knowing about them before you set your budget.
How much does a registrar cost?
Whether you’re getting married at a town hall, hotel, or another licensed venue, you’ll need a registrar. The average cost is around £300, but it depends on when you’re getting married.
Weekday vs weekend
Weekday ceremonies during office hours are the cheapest option. Expect to pay £300 to £400 for a weekday registrar.
- Saturday: around £500
- Sunday: up to £550
Bank holidays and special dates
Getting married on Valentine’s Day, Christmas Eve, or New Year’s Eve? Those dates come with higher fees.
- Bank holidays: around £525
- High-demand dates (Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve): £600 to £650
How to keep registrar costs down
- Pick a weekday during office hours
- Avoid Saturdays if you can
- Skip bank holidays and peak celebration dates
- Book early. Popular dates fill up fast and some councils charge more for late bookings
Being flexible on your date and time can save you a few hundred pounds. That’s money you can put towards photos, food, or the honeymoon.
What affects the price
1. Location
Every council sets its own fees. A ceremony in central London will cost more than one in a smaller town. Check your local authority’s website for their current price list.
2. Date and time
Saturday afternoons are the most expensive slots. Weekday mornings are the cheapest. If budget matters more than the day of the week, a Tuesday or Wednesday ceremony can save you a lot.
3. Season
Spring and summer are peak wedding season. Higher demand can mean higher prices at some registry offices during these months.
4. Guest count
Registry offices have limited space. If you want more guests, you might need a larger room, which usually costs more. Some offices charge extra for this.
5. Personal touches
Most registry offices allow you to include a reading or a piece of music. Some allow personal vows. These are usually included in the ceremony fee, but check with your registrar beforehand.
6. Everything else
The ceremony might be inexpensive, but don’t forget the other costs that come with the day:
- Photographer or videographer
- Flowers
- Outfits
- Transport
- Reception (if you’re celebrating separately afterwards)
These add up fast. A registry office ceremony might cost under £500, but the full day could still come to several thousand depending on what you add around it.
Common questions
Do we need witnesses?
Yes. You need at least two witnesses who are over 16. They can be anyone you choose. Friends, family, even your photographer if you’re keeping it small.
Can we personalise a registry office ceremony?
To a degree. Most offices let you choose a reading and a piece of music. Some allow personal vows. It’s a shorter ceremony than a church wedding, but you can still make it feel like yours. Check with your local office on what’s allowed.
A registry office wedding can still look incredible
Some of the best weddings we’ve shot have been registry office ceremonies. Smaller guest lists, less pressure, and couples who are completely relaxed. The photos and films from those days are always full of real emotion.
If you’re planning a registry office wedding and want a team who knows how to capture it properly, check your date with us.