Do I need to book a registrar for my wedding?

For a civil ceremony, a registrar is legally required and cannot be replaced by a friend or family member. You book the registrar through the register office where you gave notice. The office will confirm the date, time and location, which can be the office itself, an approved venue or, since 2022, outdoors within the grounds of an approved venue. If you are marrying in a religious building, an authorised person such as a priest or minister usually conducts the service, but you still need to ensure the building is registered for marriages and that the legal requirements are met. In Scotland, registrars or approved religious and belief celebrants can conduct the ceremony, and in Northern Ireland, registrars or authorised celebrants are needed. Always check the specific rules for your area on GOV.UK or with your local register office.