Types of ceremonies

Civil marriage ceremonies

A civil marriage is a non-religious ceremony carried out by a registrar.

You can book a ceremony with us and we will confirm availability. Ceremonies can be simple, personal or traditional — it is your choice.

Before the ceremony

You are encouraged to meet with the registrar to discuss your ceremony. You can include:

  • music (live or recorded)
  • personal vows
  • readings
  • symbolic gestures such as handfasting or lighting a unity candle

Read more about ways to personalise your ceremony.

Where you can have your ceremony

You can get married anywhere in Highland, including:

  • hotels, castles, halls or other venues
  • ceremony rooms in our registration offices

When you can have your ceremony

Ceremony times are agreed between you and the registrar. We do not offer ceremonies on 25 or 26 December, or 1 or 2 January.

Costs

The cost will depend on the location, the day and the number of guests attending.

View our fees

Book a registrar for your ceremony

Page last modified: 23 February 2026