If you’re dreaming of a small, intimate wedding, a registry office ceremony is a perfect choice. Whether you’re keeping things simple, eloping, or planning a private celebration with close family and friends, a registry office wedding allows you to focus on what truly matters—your love and commitment.
What to Expect from a Registry Office Wedding
A civil ceremony at a registry office in South Wales is a straightforward and elegant way to get married. Here’s what you need to know:
✔️ Legal Simplicity – You’ll need to give notice at least 29 days before your wedding and choose two witnesses (TIP: for true elopements, your photographer can be a witness!)
✔️ Short & Sweet Ceremony – Most registry office ceremonies last 15–30 minutes, with simple vows and the legal signing of the register.
✔️ Guest Numbers – Some registry offices allow just two witnesses, while others can accommodate up to 30+ guests.
✔️ Personal Touches – While civil ceremonies are non-religious, you can include personal vows, readings, or music to make it special.
Things to Be Aware of When Booking
While registry office weddings are simple to plan, there are a few important details to check:
⚠️ Photographer Restrictions – If you book a “witness-only” ceremony, only you, your partner, and two witnesses are allowed inside—meaning your photographer won’t be able to attend unless they are one of your witnesses. If you want professional photos of your ceremony, check with the registry office when booking.
⚠️ Confetti Rules – Some registry offices don’t allow confetti outside the building, so check their policy or consider biodegradable alternatives like dried petals.
⚠️ Timing for Photos – If your ceremony is late in the day, consider how much natural light will be available for outdoor portraits, especially in autumn and winter. You’ll want to set aside approximately 1 hour for photographs after your ceremony. My 2 hour package is perfectly timed to cover this
How to Make a Registry Office Wedding Feel Special
Just because you’re having a small wedding doesn’t mean it can’t feel magical. Here are some ways to make the day unforgettable:
💐 Dress How You Want – Whether you choose a wedding dress, a chic jumpsuit, or a smart suit, wear something that makes you feel amazing.
📍 Choose a Beautiful Location – You DO NOT need to get married at the registry office for the area you live in. My favourite offices in South Wales include Swansea, which is right on the beach, Carmarthen with a gorgeous old library for ceremonies, and Cardiff’s Insole Court
🎉 Add a Personal Celebration – After the ceremony, celebrate with a meal at your favourite restaurant, an intimate garden party, or even a weekend getaway. Or if you’re beach lovers like I am, why not pack your favourite picnic and head to the beach straight after?
📸 Capture the Moment – A short photography session ensures you have gorgeous images to remember the day. Each week I capture registry office ceremonies and formal photos, and I even act as a witness on a regular basis. You can check out my Mini Wedding Photography Package right here
Do You Need a Wedding Photographer?
Even small weddings deserve beautiful memories. My 2-hour micro wedding photography package is perfectly designed for registry office weddings, covering:
✨ Arrivals & Pre-Ceremony Moments
💍 The Ceremony
🎊 Confetti & Family Photos
❤️ Relaxed Newlywed Portraits
All for just £350, and available all across South & West Wales (other locations available upon request)
If you’re planning a registry office wedding in Swansea or South Wales, I’d love to help capture your special day.
📩 Let’s chat about your wedding plans!
Photos include:
– Swansea Civic Centre/Swansea Register Office
– Brangwyn Hall wedding, Swansea
– Cardiff City Hall
– Insole Court wedding
– Carmarthen Register Office wedding
– Pontypridd Register Office wedding
