A registrar is a local authority representative who is sent to conduct legally binding ceremonies and officially record them with the local council. Ceremonies have to conform to strict guidelines i.e. wording and length (max 15 minutes). Registrar-led ceremonies can only take place in licensed wedding venues.

In contrast, a humanist celebrant builds a close personal relationship with a couple. They work together to create a totally bespoke and deeply meaningful ceremony with the scope and flexibility to include anything they desire. Humanist ceremonies can also take place at any location. For example, as well as licensed wedding venues, they can be held on a clifftop, beach, back garden or in your favourite pub!

Readings and poems delivered by myself, family or friends, live music (even singalongs!), symbolic rituals - the possibilities are endless, and that’s the beauty of a humanist ceremony. As your celebrant, my job is to advise and make suggestions should you wish me to. After a booking is made, I send couples a range of resources to spark ideas and provide inspiration.

Humanist ceremonies are not yet legal in England and Wales, however in October 2025 the UK government announced its intention to make them legally recognised as part of wider marriage law reform.

A consultation is planned for early 2026, with legislation to follow at a later date.

Yes, humanist ceremonies are inclusive, and featuring religious content is absolutely fine so long as its framed/contextualised in an appropriate way and no acts of collective worship take place. Whatever the instance or concern, I’m sure we can find a solution that makes family members feel comfortable while not compromising your beliefs and values.

Unless your chosen venue/vendors have set a time limit, which rarely happens, the duration is completely up to you. However, in my experience, around 30 minutes is an ideal length of time.

I may be ‘The Northern Wedding Celebrant’, but that doesn’t mean i’m not happy to travel. For weddings further afield, travel and accommodation expenses will be added to the final bill. I charge 45p per mile beyond my 30 minute catchment area. Public transport and overnight stays would also be claimed in full.

In short, the longer the lead time the better as it increases the likelihood that i’ll be available on your chosen date, and makes the ceremony planning/crafting process as relaxed as possible. In saying that, if a tight turnaround is required, and I’m free on your chosen date, that’s completely fine too.

OF COURSE I DO!

Being accredited with Humanists UK means that I have been through a rigorous training process. To maintain accreditation I’m required to develop my awareness and knowledge through ongoing CPD, alongside regular peer review. My work is covered by full public liability and professional indemnity insurance, I have an advanced DBS check and comply with the Data Protection Act.

I am also an accredited funeral celebrant and trained mentor, which allows me to guide and support trainees in my regional network.