Registry Style Weddings

I am one of the few Celebrants in New Zealand who is registered by Births Deaths and Marriages to officiate at a REGISTRY STYLE MARRIAGE Ceremony.

Registry style ceremonies can be held at venues of the couples choosing; reception lounges, halls, parks, the beach, their own home, my home; I have even married a couple in their Milking shed surrounded by 100 cows and 10 family members.

Couples can still have a formal wedding with wedding gowns and suits, brides maids and groomsmen; or they can be much more informal followed by a afternoon tea, Barbeque, or a gathering at your club or pub.

What is your Celebrant Fee to officiate at a Registry style marriage?
My Celebrants Fee is $90 for a Registry style Ceremony which is paid to me once the documents are signed. The Marriage document fee is paid to BDM and they send me the marriage forms by email.

What do you provide for the cost of your services?
My fee includes initial consultation and performing the ceremony. It is my responsibility to send the signed documents to BDM in Wellington.

How many people can attend a Registry Style Service?
You need a minimum of two people to act as your witnesses and sign the forms. If necessary I can arrange two witnesses for a small fee. The maximum number depends on the venue. I will ask you how many guests will be at the service when we talk over your Plan.

How long does a normal Registry style ceremony take?
The average length of a ceremony is 10-15 minutes.

Do we have to know our vows by heart, and do we have to write them ourselves?
No, it is not a requirement to remember the vows. There is only one service available for a Registry ceremony and I have a copy of it.

Can we get married at a place we wish to?
You are given the option of two choices on your Licence application and I am legally bound to conduct the ceremony at either of those places. The choice of two venues provides for a wet weather option if needed.                                                                                                                                      

What happens to the Marriage documents once we have signed them?
There are two marriage documents and we all sign both copies. At the conclusion of the Ceremony I give one signed copy to the couple and I take the other signed copy, scan it and send it to Births Deaths and Marriages in Wellington to be formally recorded.