Sworn & Appointed Wedding Officiant (BABS)

So, how does this actually work? I am officially appointed and sworn in as a BABS (Buitengewoon Ambtenaar van de Burgerlijke Stand – Civil Registrar) by the Municipality of Diemen. This means that I have been sworn in by the court and appointed to officiate municipal weddings in Diemen. For all other weddings, I work as an independent wedding officiant in different municipalities.

Independent wedding officiant

As a sworn BABS, I am authorized to officiate weddings in any municipality. However, for each municipality where I am not officially employed, I need to apply for a temporary appointment.

The process and costs for this appointment vary per municipality. In some municipalities, the couple can apply for it themselves, either online or in person. In others, I have to submit the application myself.

It is important to note that this application, signed by both the couple and me, must generally be submitted to the municipality at least 2 to 4 months before the wedding!

The costs for my appointment as a BABS vary depending on the municipality, ranging from €69 to €289 (excluding VAT). These costs are in addition to the fees you pay to the municipality for getting married at your chosen location, as well as the venue costs.

Find out more about my working method & rate.

Ceremonial weddings are an option too!

Want to avoid these extra costs? You can also opt for a ceremonial wedding! Many couples choose to sign the legal paperwork at the town hall on a Monday morning, making it a simple yet special moment.

Think about what matters most to you—do you want to be legally married on the same day as your big celebration, or would you prefer to handle the paperwork earlier (or even later!) with just your witnesses? This can actually be a fun and intimate moment, and you can even keep it a secret from your guests!

On your “real” wedding day, nothing will feel different from a legal wedding—you’ll exchange vows, say “I do,” exchange rings, and even sign a (symbolic) marriage certificate!

Want to know more about ceremonial weddings? Check out my blog on the topic! 😊