15.06.2026 11:02
The "rent-a-wedding officiant" practice, which is becoming widespread in the wedding industry, is attracting couples' interest. Fees ranging from 6,000 to 23,000 lira are charged for symbolic ceremonies conducted by actors who do not have official marriage authorization. Couples who want to renew their vows, those having weddings in two different cities, and those who wish to hold a more private ceremony after the official marriage prefer this service.
A new practice that has recently attracted attention in the wedding industry is becoming widespread. The "rental wedding officiant" service offered by event planning companies is particularly popular for hotel weddings and outdoor events. The fee paid for actors who manage symbolic marriage ceremonies can reach up to 23,000 lira.
THEY CONDUCT CEREMONIES LIKE WEDDING OFFICIANTS
Under this new practice, professional actors perform at ceremonies wearing robes and outfits similar to those of wedding officiants. However, these individuals do not perform legal marriages; they only carry out a symbolic and theatrical ceremony.
Emotional or entertaining scenarios can be applied in ceremonies tailored to couples' requests. Event companies meet with couples in advance to plan the ceremony content together.
FEES CAN REACH UP TO 23,000 LIRA
According to a report on NTV, prices for symbolic marriage ceremonies vary depending on the service provided by firms in the industry. While basic packages start at around 6,000 lira, the amount can rise to 23,000 lira for more comprehensive and luxury events.
ALSO PREFERRED BY THOSE ELOPING
Among the customers of this practice are couples who marry without their families' knowledge. Some couples who have a simple legal marriage at the municipality later arrange a symbolic marriage ceremony to experience the wedding atmosphere they dream of. Thus, they hold a second wedding ceremony with their families and close friends.
ALSO FAVORED BY THOSE WANTING TO RENEW THEIR VOWS
The symbolic marriage practice is not limited to newlyweds. Couples who had a legal marriage years ago and want to add a different excitement to their relationship also turn to this service to renew their vows. Additionally, couples who want to have weddings in two different cities often opt for a symbolic ceremony in the second event after the legal marriage.
ALSO COMMON IN EUROPE AND THE USA
Similar practices have been used for a long time in Europe and the USA. In these countries, the individuals performing this role are called "wedding celebrant" or "wedding officiant."
While some couples organize entirely symbolic ceremonies instead of legal marriages, others use this service simply to create an unforgettable memory.
DOES IT CREATE A LEGAL ISSUE?
According to experts, as long as couples understand that a symbolic marriage is not a legal procedure and fake marriage documents are not used in official institutions, the practice does not pose any legal problems. However, if one party leads the other to believe that a real marriage has taken place, the situation may be considered fraud.
EARLY APPLICATION RECOMMENDED DUE TO HIGH DEMAND
With the start of the wedding season, demand for symbolic marriage services is also increasing. Industry representatives advise couples who want to use this service to make a reservation at least one month in advance due to the summer traffic.