Frequently asked Questions
What is a Celebrant?
A trained individual who can officiate personalised weddings, funerals, naming ceremonies, and other life events.
What are the benefits of having a celebrant?
A celebrant led ceremony is more tailored and personalised. We want to get to know the real person and create celebrations of love and meaning.
Are you trained and certified?
Yes. I had the honour of training with The Academy of Professional Celebrants where I am certified. I can show my certificates upon request.
Are your wedding ceremonies legally binding?
No, celebrant-led weddings aren’t legally recognised in England and Wales at the moment. If you want to make things legal, all you need to do is pop down to a register office for a simple ceremony (it may be known as a statutory ceremony or a 2+2 ceremony). The cost varies but is usually fairly low, around £50-60. A lot of people choose to do this before the celebrant-led wedding, but you can also do it after if you prefer. I can help you figure out where and when you want to do this.
What's the difference between a celebrant and a registrar?
Registrars are employed by the council and provide legally binding ceremonies. Ceremonies can only take place within designated rooms at the council buildings, or at licenced wedding venues. Registrars are unlikely to meet with you beforehand, and ceremonies offer very little personalisation.
Independent celebrants can’t do the legal bit, but what they can do is spend time getting to know you so they can craft a ceremony uniquely for you that expresses your individuality and tells your love story to your guests. Maybe you want more freedom and control over your ceremony? Like getting married in a place that isn’t a licenced venue? Or incorporating spiritual or cultural traditions, and symbolic rituals? Then a celebrant-led ceremony is what you’re looking for!
What should I consider for the content of the service?
As part of the service I will carry out a home visit where I will ask questions to attain information, stories and memories. Some areas you may wish to think for about funeral include.
-Where the deceased was born and grew up
-Siblings and family members they grew up with
-School days and childhood stories
-Partners, children, grandchildren and other family members
-Closest friends
-Armed forces/National Service
-Career plans and places of work
-Groups and societies belonged to
-Interests and achievements
-Favourite memories
-Musical tastes
-Significant events
-Sayings and stories
-What will you most remember them for?
-Did the deceased make any personal requests about their own funeral?
-Will anybody else be speaking at/participating in the service?
For weddings I want to create the best love story for YOU. Part of this will include a fun questionnaire given to couples separately. This enables me to create some fun moments and add extra special touches.
Can I have a service/ceremony without having to go the crematorium?
Yes, I can hold a service or celebration of life wherever you wish it to be.
Still not sure? Ask me anything
I am always happy to talk with you further and answer any questions you might have