Let's Talk About Fees
There’s a great story of how Picasso was sitting in a Paris Café one day, when a man approached him, expressing admiration for his work and asking if he’d quickly sketch something on a napkin. Picasso obliged, but when he handed it over, he said, "That will be 1,000 Francs".. The man was outraged... “What? 1,000 Francs! It only took you 30 seconds!!”
To which Picasso replied…
“No… it took me 40 years.”
Now, whether or not this story is true, the message is clear. Most practising celebrants have invested a huge amount of time, money, and effort into their craft... years of training, workshops, practice, and refining their skills so they can create something truly meaningful and unique for you.
But here’s the thing... more often than not, when people first reach out, the email simply says:
“How much do you charge?”
We get it... budget matters. But choosing a celebrant isn’t like picking a cake or booking a DJ. A great ceremony isn’t just something you buy; it’s something you co-create with a skilled, experienced celebrant who will guide you through the process, shape the ceremony to truly reflect your love, and hold space for one of the most significant moments of your life.
So, how much does a celebrant cost?
Most celebrants charge somewhere between £500 and £1000 for a wedding ceremony, with fees varying based on experience, location, and the level of personalisation involved. At Rites & Rituals Scotland, our celebrants set their own fees based on their experience and the depth of work they bring to the process. Some of our newer celebrants may charge a little less, while those with years of experience will likely be at the higher end of the scale.
When you book a Rites & Rituals celebrant, you’re not just booking a 20-minute ceremony. You’re getting months of care and attention... Zoom calls, face-to-face meetings, access to resources, drafts and re-drafts, deep discussions about what truly matters to you as a couple. You’re getting guidance on the emotional and spiritual significance of your vows, advice on how to be fully present, and thoughtful touches like handfastings, ring stones, quaichs, music, storytelling, and guest involvement.
What we do isn’t just about words, it’s about energy, presence, and connection. It’s about crafting a moment that feels effortless but has taken years of experience and hours of work to create. And when it’s done right, you’ll hear your guests say,
"That was the most beautiful ceremony I’ve ever been to."
And if it’s a legal wedding? Then your celebrant is the one person you cannot do without. If every guest, every supplier, and even the weather lets you down, you can still get married. But if your celebrant isn’t there? There’s no wedding.
So if you’re planning on booking a celebrant, we invite you to think beyond just “how much does it cost?” and instead ask,
“What kind of ceremony do I want to create?”
Because when you choose the right celebrant, you’re not just paying for a service... you’re investing in a moment you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
