What is a celebrant?
A celebrant is able to design and deliver a bespoke ceremony for all of your special occasions including weddings, namings, anniversaries and funerals. Whatever you wish to celebrate there is a ceremony for you.
I have been professionally trained by the UK based International College of Professional Celebrants (ICPC) although not all celebrants are trained!
Can a celebrant conduct a marriage?
A celebrant can officiate for all weddings but under current law, a couple can only be legally married by a minister of a recognised faith or a registrar. However, your choices of locations and style may be limited. You can have the legally binding marriage at a register office in advance (and often with greater choice of dates) and then have the celebrant led wedding ceremony at a time and place of your choice. Couples often choose to attend the register office the day or a couple of days before their ceremony but you can also do so afterwards if this works better for you.
Where can I hold my ceremony?
Where ever you want...within reason! A celebrant is not restricted to using only licenesed venues. As long as it is safe and legal, your ceremony could be in a hotel or your home, a boat or a plane, a hilltop or a cave, a safari park or a beach! But do think about the weather too!
Can we include any religious or cultural elements?
Yes! The beauty of a celebrant led ceremony is that you can include whatever you would like. When uniting a couple, joining together two families or reflecting a person's heritage and background, using religious or cultural elements is a wonderful way to make everyone feel included and to make the ceremony individual and personal.
How much does it cost?
I offer a free and no obligation telephone consultation and an initial meeting before you make your decision. The total price I give will be completely transparent and it will be all inclusive to cover the meetings, planning, liaision and delivering the ceremony.
What does the logo mean?
The infinity sign is used to symbolise eternity and limitlessness; it reflects the endlessness of love; It encapsulates how our lives are intertwined with each other, how at times our journeys cross and at others they continue alongside each other.
The colours reflect kindness, creativity, health, healing and encouragement.
Can the ceremony include other friends and family?
Yes! Many people wish to have close friends or family playing a special part in the ceremony. There are many different ways in which they can be included from choosing readings and music, bearing particular gifts or ceremonial items, being a part of chosen rituals and making promises as 'guide' or 'god' parents. This can be a wonderful opportunity to include children, siblings and BFFs!
Can pets and animals be included?
Yes! Pets are often just as much a family member as everyone else! But remember that they can be unpredictable and will need someone to look after them. I'd rather not do a ceremony that includes parrots though! Don't ask!!!
Can I include musicians?
Yes! Music can often bring a great deal of meaning and fun to a ceremony. Please note however, that you would be responsible for any PA systems or licensing of live music.
Can you help with the writing of vows or promises?
Yes! You may already have in mind what you would like to say or have no idea! I can help you to write them, edit them and advise you as much as you would like or need. I want you to be able to enjoy your moment.
What if the ceremony is not in the UK?
That's not a problem. Whether you are planning to hold your ceremony abroad, or maybe you live abroad and are having the ceremony in the UK, I can support you. I am able to meet with you 'virtually' and liaise with the venue if it is outside the UK. Some couples may choose to get married abroad and then to have a celebration for their family and friends when they get home too!
How much notice is needed?
It is always a good idea to be able to confirm a booking as far in advance as possible. That way more time is available to create your ceremony, make sure everyone is happy with the plans and it fits into the rest of your day of celebration. It also means that the date is kept available for you in my diary.