If the registry office is performing your ceremony
The NSW Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages can perform your wedding through a registry wedding or micro wedding ceremony. Find out what’s included and how they are different.
Wedding ceremonies performed by the NSW Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages are a simple and affordable option.
All of the planning and legal requirements involved in getting married are taken care of for you.
Book a marriage interview and submit a notice of intended marriage form at least 1 month before you intend to marry.
What is a registry wedding?
A registry wedding is a type of marriage ceremony performed on any date, subject to availability.
You can choose to have the ceremony in a registry office or at a range of scenic venues.
You can invite a small number of guests. The exact number will depend on the wedding venue.
Registry weddings include the ceremony only. If you want a reception or some form of celebration after the wedding ceremony:
- it will need to be planned and paid for separately, or
- opt for a micro wedding performed by the Registry
Learn more about planning a registry wedding.
What is a micro wedding?
A micro wedding performed by the Registry is a type of marriage ceremony held:
- on a specific set date as a one-off event
- at well-known locations and venues
You can invite up to 35 guests, depending on the wedding venue.
You can also choose to include optional extras such as:
- photography
- flowers
- food and beverage packages to enjoy with your guests after the ceremony
Learn more about planning a micro wedding.
The difference between registry weddings and micro weddings
What's included in your registry wedding package will depend on the type of ceremony you choose.
| Inclusions | Registry weddings | Micro weddings |
|---|---|---|
| Fee for notice of intended marriage form | Yes | Yes |
| Celebrant | Yes | Yes |
| Venue | Yes | Yes |
| Choice of date | Yes | No |
| Guests | Yes | Yes |
| Ceremony | Yes | Yes |
| Ceremony fees | From $469 | From $1,199 |
| Venue styling | No | Yes |
| Flowers | No | Optional |
| Photography | No | Optional |
| Wedding reception | No* | Optional |
| Standard marriage certificate | Yes | Yes |
| Commemorative marriage certificate | Yes | Yes |
*A wedding reception are optional extras for Handpicked Cellar Door and Chippendale Registry Office venues only.
Need to change your surname?
You'll receive a standard official marriage certificate as part of your wedding package. This is issued after your marriage is registered. You will need this document to change your name after getting married.
Find out how to change your surname after marriage.