Your wedding ceremony is a celebration of your relationship - marriage is the real thing.
My repertoire includes simple, traditional, modern, theme and cultural ceremonies. You may choose from my large range of Vows and Readings or use them as a guide to create your individual ideas.
Renewal of Vows
The time when a married couple may wish to express and renew their love and commitment. The ceremony reflects your journey together to date and your hopes and dreams for the future. This is often celebrated to honour an anniversary of your wedding day. It is similar to a wedding ceremony, celebrated with family and close friends, though without the legalities.
Commitment Ceremony
Designed for couples who may not wish to be legally married and for same sex couples to acknowledge your relationship as one of permanent and continuing commitment. It is similar to a wedding ceremony, shared with family and friends, without legalities.
Naming Ceremony
An alternative to a Christening but traditional in the appointment of Godparents or Guardians. The Naming Ceremony welcomes the child into the family and the community and recognises the guiding role of parents.
Funeral/Memorial Services
A tribute to a life that has been lived.
I offer a number of civil funeral ceremonies and appropriate readings. I work closely with family members to capture the essence of the person to achieve an accurate and respectful service.
Magic Moments:
The Rose Ceremony Butterfly/Dove Release The Sand Ceremony (involves the whole family) Candle Lighting Ceremony (involves the mothers of the Bride & Groom) The Cup Ceremony (involves the Best Man)
Many of these symbols and rituals have their roots in ancient traditions and customs, but today become an unexpected aspect of your ceremony that will delight your guests and make your wedding ceremony personal and unique.
You may also wish to:
Invite someone special to do a reading you have selected or personal words they have written. Pass your rings amongst your guests for their blessings/best wishes Have a ring bearer Have someone sing during the Ceremony Ask all parents to be a part of the ‘Giving Away’ Ceremony Select two witnesses (over 18) who are not part of the Bridal Party
The number of guests, whether you would like to be inside or outside, or whether you wish to have a formal or private and intimate ceremony may determine your choice of venue.
Some options are:
A non denominational Village Chapel Landscaped Gardens
In a pergola above a private resort swimming pool Under a tree in the rainforest
An elegant private retreat
By the tranquil waters of an azure lake
A heritage restaurant
Your own garden
A Chinese Temple
A Crater Lake Cruise Boat
Choosing your outdoor venue:
Waterfalls are lovely but may be a little noisy if we are too close. High-heeled shoes sink in garden settings if ground is damp. Bridal trains may be soiled by our red earth. Insects may also want to attend your wedding. The weather doesn’t know it’s your wedding day.
However, there is nothing we cannot overcome. We'll do it together. Pop onto my blog for ideas.
Did You Know:
Brides are traditionally carried over the threshold of their new home to symbolise the transition from their father’s house.
In ancient times it was the custom for a young woman to be under the authority and protection of the man who was the head of the household – usually her father or elder brother. When she married, the responsibility – and the authority – passed to her husband. This was the origin of the ‘Giving of the Bride’ ceremony.
Your engagement and wedding rings symbolise the hopes and dreams you have for your relationship. The diamond in your engagement ring is virtually indestructible, like you expect your relationship to be. The circular band represents the eternity you plan to spend together.
The ritual of standing on a glass (wrapped in a linen napkin) after the bride and groom have sipped from it demonstrates that just as they have shared the sweetness of the wine, so will they share in any sorrow that comes their way.
Let me make your day beautiful. Phone 0740 916587 or
email me
for a free consultation.
"Welcome to the best day of your life!"
"Thank you so much for being our celebrant. Our wedding was so perfect and the ease with which you led us through the planning stage helped so much. It was such a love filled, relaxed and beautiful ceremony - everyone said so. (Dan & Kerry, Cairns)