“What Even Is a Celebrant?” (And Why You’ll Wish You’d Found One Sooner)

Wondering what a celebrant is? Discover why more couples are choosing celebrant-led weddings that feel personal, relaxed and completely them.

WHAT IS A CELEBRANT?

Dawn Vincent

7/28/20252 min read

“Right, hands up if you’ve heard the word Celebrant and thought... ‘What even is that?’”
Honestly? You wouldn’t be the only one. It’s a question I get asked a lot. And fair enough — celebrant-led weddings are still a bit of a hidden gem, even though they’re growing in popularity across the UK.

So, if you’re planning your wedding and someone’s just dropped the word celebrant into the mix (or you’ve just seen my reel and are thinking “Hang on, this sounds like us”) — let me explain what it’s all about.

So… What Is a Celebrant?

A celebrant is someone who creates and delivers personalised, meaningful wedding ceremonies. Not scripts. Not templates. Not stuffy legal jargon. Just a ceremony that’s relaxed, romantic, full of heart — and completely you.

Unlike a registrar, I’m not tied to a specific script or location. I have the freedom (and joy!) of crafting something from scratch — based on your story, your personalities, and your vision for the day. Whether you want it traditional-with-a-twist or totally unique, we’ll build it together.

Think of me as your ceremony storyteller — the person who sets the tone, brings the warmth, and helps you feel at ease every step of the way.

What Makes a Celebrant-Led Ceremony So Special?

Celebrant-led weddings are…

✅ Personal

No cookie-cutter wording here. Every ceremony I create is tailored to you — from the structure and the tone to the readings, rituals and vows. Want to involve your dog as ring bearer? Share your story like a mini rom-com? Honour your cultures or blended families? Done.

✅ Flexible

Want to get married outdoors, in a woodland glade, a family farm, a tipi in the Yorkshire Dales, or your favourite pub garden? You can. I’m not limited to licensed venues or times — which means your ceremony, your way.

✅ Emotional (in the best way)

This is the bit that really stays with people. Guests laugh, cry, and come away saying “That was so them.” Because it was — and it’s the kind of ceremony you remember forever.

What’s the Difference Between a Celebrant and a Registrar?

This is a biggie — and it often surprises people.

A registrar is employed by the local council to carry out the legal registration of your marriage. They’ll usually read from a standard script and have limited time slots, especially if you’re at a busy venue.

A celebrant (like me) focuses on the celebration. The personal, heartfelt, story-led ceremony that reflects who you are and what you love. It can be longer, warmer, and completely bespoke.

The legal bit and the love bit don’t have to happen at the same time.
Most of my couples do the legal registration quietly at the registry office a few days before (think of it like registering a birth) — and then have the real ceremony with me, in front of their favourite people, in a place they love.

Why Choose Me?

Honestly? Because I take the time to get to know you — not just your wedding plans, but you. Your quirks, your story, your hopes for the day. I’m warm, creative, and a safe pair of hands. I’ll bring ideas, reassurance, humour and heart. And I’ll be right there with you, cheering you on from your first email to the “I do.”

For one couple that might mean, weaving in their favourite walks, a candle ritual for their blended family, and a cheeky nod to their shared love of Yorkshire Tea.

For you? It could mean something totally different — and totally right.

The Ceremony Shouldn’t Be the Bit You Just ‘Get Through’

It should be the highlight.

The moment everyone leans in.
The bit that sets the tone for the whole day.
The reason your guests can’t stop talking about it long after the last dance.

Get in Touch

So if you're looking for a ceremony that reflects you, rather than a copy-and-paste script… then this could be your sign. You can book a no-obligation call with me here.

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