Weddings, Wallets, and What It'll Actually Cost You

It’s one of those things that can feel a bit awkward - but honestly, it shouldn’t be. You’re planning a wedding, not bartering for a second-hand sofa, and it’s important to know what’s what.

So, how much does it cost to be legally married by me?

For weddings in 2026, my fee is £500. For weddings in 2027, my fee is £550.

For ceremonies within one hour of my home, travel time is included in my fee, with mileage charged at £0.55 per mile. For longer journeys, travel is charged at £0.55 per mile plus a travel supplement of £50 per hour or part thereof (the travel supplement is charged one-way only). This will only change if your wedding involves an overnight stay, ferry, flight etc.

In terms of what you need to pay me and when, I'll invoice you for half of my fee when I send you your draft ceremony, approximately three months before your wedding date. The balance and agreed expenses will be due four weeks before the big day itself.

What else do you need to budget for?

Every couple marrying in Scotland needs to pay £100 to the local Registrar when you lodge your Marriage Notice paperwork.

And to book me, you’ll also need to join Humanist Society Scotland, which also costs £100 and covers a two-year membership. You can do that here.

So the full total? £500 (2026) or £550 (2027) (me) + £100 (Registrar) + £100 (HSS membership) = £700 (2026) or £750 (2027)*

*plus travel - don't forget that!

That’s as accurate as it gets today - but some of those fees (like the Registrar’s bit) are out of my hands and might change, and some (like my travel) will vary depending on how far away from me you're planning to get hitched.

So there you have it. Mostly clear and awkward-free. One less thing to stress about - and isn’t that a win?

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