Registry office wedding cost – All you need to know

Weddings are one of the biggest days of your life. They’re a chance to formally announce your love to each other and celebrate. They are also a very personal day that you can celebrate any way you want. Some people prefer to have a small and intimate ceremony with just their closest friends and family. Others prefer a huge blowout with everyone they know. The choice is completely down to you and what you feel defines you best. If decide on something more low-key, chances are you’ve looked at a registry office – but you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed. Here we take a look at a registry office wedding cost and what you need to consider. 

How much does a registry office wedding cost?

Things to think about

• Having a wedding registry for people to choose gifts from 
• Leaving enough time to get married on your selected date
• How many people you would like to invite 
• Your budget
• If it will be part of a larger celebration

What is a registry office wedding?

Registry offices are government offices that are licensed for marriage (as well as things such as adoptions and birth registrations.) They can differ in size from small and contemporary to larger and more historical depending on the building. The size of the room you wed in can differ depending on how many people are in attendance and your personal preference. 

Registry office weddings are often favoured by those wanting something low-key. Others choose it if wanting a legal ceremony in the UK then a celebration abroad. You can get married in any registry office in England or Wales. Just make sure you plan with enough time to ensure there is availability on your chosen date. Note that while you can get married in any registry office, you will need to give notice at your local office.

How much does a registry office wedding cost?

When getting married in a registry office, there are a few different costs you need to factor in. You will need to pay to rent the room which depends on the venue. This can range from around £60-£350 but can be more or less depending on where you’re getting married. Other things that can also impact a registry office wedding cost are whether you are getting hitched on a weekend and the time of year. Busier times can be pricier.

You will also need to pay for:

• Giving notice of marriage. This is around £35 per person if you live in the UK but can be more if you are from outside the EU. You may also need to apply for a visa so be sure to research your own specific requirements first.
• Your wedding certificate – This costs £6 and a lot of registry offices include it in their price. Ask about this when you book.

When you add up the total of these things, registry office wedding costs can start from around £100 all in. Because of this, it’s a great choice for those on a budget to save costs on their wedding. 

Do you get gifts at a registry office wedding?

Just because you’re having a low-key wedding doesn’t mean people won’t want to give you a gift to celebrate! One of the best ways of getting gifts you want is to use a gift registry such as Amazon. They make it easier than ever to collate a wish list, with plenty of suggestions for you to add. Once you have done so, you can share a link in your wedding invites – or why not send in a Whatsapp? This way you won’t end up with ten sets of egg cups and can get gifts you appreciate and will use. This works out better both for you and the person giving the gift who’ll want to know they’ve given something useful!

You can sign up to make a wedding gift list for free here. 

What is a civil ceremony?

Put simply, a civil ceremony is a wedding that is recognised by a government official and performed by a registrar. They can include things such as readings and music but are not religious. You can’t include things like readings from the bible or hymns as part of the ceremony.

Do you need witnesses?

As with any wedding, you will need witnesses at your registry office wedding. This needs to be two people of your choice and can be someone such as a friend or family member. Many choose one parent from both the bride and groom’s sides but the choice is up to you. They will be there to listen to the legalities of the ceremony and then to sign your wedding certificate. 

Can you still have a party if you get married at a registry office?

Of course you can! This is another registry office wedding cost you will need to think of, even though it doesn’t directly relate to the registry office. Many people decide to get married at a registry office and then hire out somewhere locally to have a party or dinner. You could decide to hire out a local town hall and throw a buffet dinner and drinks. You might decide to rent out a private room in a restaurant for a celebratory meal, or perhaps you’ll head to your local park, beach, or your own house for a celebration together if you want to continue the low key vibe. 

What else should I consider for a registry office wedding cost?

• Your outfits! Registry office weddings tend to be less formal than other weddings but you’ll still want to get a special outfit for the big day. Some people choose to go all out with a wedding dress, while others go more casual. 
• Bridesmaid and groomsmen outfits if this is something you’re opting for
• Flowers! You could pick your own or go to your local florist.
• Decorations for your after-party venue
• If you are getting your hair and makeup done
• A wedding car
• Your honeymoon
• Your cake 

These are just a few things to consider when it comes to registry office wedding costs. Why not make a spreadsheet of everything to calculate the total cost? This can help ensure you don’t overspend and keep track of what’s in your account. 

This should sum up what a registry office wedding cost is in the UK and help you to make an informed decision. Have any questions about getting married or want some more advice? Let us know your questions in the comments below!