Wanaka Marriage Celebrant
October 13, 2009 by bridget
Filed under Latest News
Why I became a Celebrant by Bev Clark Marriage & Civil Union Celebrant
When I am asked “Why did you become a Celebrant?”, it was not a sudden decision but the result of a series of events that lead me down this pathway. In 1989 I attended my first wedding where a Celebrant officiated.
The ceremony was outside in a beautiful garden surrounded by native bush which seemed to enhance the inspiring words and poems the Celebrant used. Words that struck me as normal, natural, meaningful and relevant to modern day living and ideals.( I wonder if they would have had such an impact on me had it been a wet day!)
I have always loved descriptive words and poetry, so it started me thinking about the possibility of becoming a Celebrant. Around that time, a well-known Celebrant in our region passed away unexpectedly and the decision was suddenly made for me. I was approached by a very overworked Celebrant to see if I would consider taking up the challenge to ease the pressure for her, as she believed I had the qualities required. I was fortunate to pass the application/interview process and so my career in this area began in a rush.
I was fortunate to receive very wise counsel and guidance from this experienced Celebrant , although nothing prepared me for all those things that can go wrong, using incorrect names, not having received the legal documentation, signing in the wrong place, being unavoidably late for a service, dysfunctional families and the myriad of other challenging events that I have learned to cope with over the years.
Despite all this, I do not take for granted the fact that I have been given this wonderful opportunity to share in a couple’s most important day in their lives. Each couple I meet, brings an interesting story, a sense of excitement, wonder, and nervousness edged with eager anticipation, providing me with a challenge to make their day unique and memorable.
On the day when the bride walks towards me and after I swallow the lump in my throat and blink back the tears—yes still after all these years I am moved and yes I still get nervous- my hope is that I have created a relaxing and rewarding atmosphere and given the bride and groom confidence to enjoy their ceremony.
Being a Celebrant is a most rewarding profession and one that I feel very privileged to have been given the opportunity of sharing in.
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The importance of choosing your Marriage Celebrant
September 1, 2009 by bridget
Filed under Latest News
When you choose your Marriage Celebrant you are choosing someone who will be directing and steering the very heart of your wedding ceremony.
It is important that you and your celebrant have the same beliefs and ideals andthat you make a connection with him/her on a personal level.
Your celebrant can be instrumental in providing invaluable assistance to ensure your ceremony is everything you desire. Remember this is your very special day and your ceremony will set the benchmark for the rest of the celebrations.
The celebrant will ensure your ceremony flows smoothly, meets all legal requirements and reflects the very unique relationship of the bride andgroom.
Book your Celebrant as soon as you have a confirmed wedding date.
Most celebrants take bookings up to 12 months to 2 years in advance.
A good celebrant will suggest a rehearsal to help you, your wedding partyand your parents feel comfortable and relaxed. He/she will also provide you will sample material i.e. ceremonies, vows, poetry etc. If there is one way to make your ceremony truly yours, it’s the act of writing your personal wedding vows. Personalising your vows allow you to express yourselves as individuals and as partners.
The celebrant should be a good listener and be prepared to provide testimonials from previous ceremonies, assist you with the documentation and be available to answer all your questions. Ask if the celebrant can supply a signing table, microphones, floral displays and other ceremony enhancement packages.
I believe that every couple and every wedding is unique.
Whether your ceremony is a small informal affair or a large traditional celebration I provide all couples with the same level of commitment and professionalism to ensure the romance and wedding traditions are not compromised.
Flexibility and a sense of humour are two very important attributes to assist a couple to de-stress, relax and treasure the experience of their wedding day.
It is my job to make sure that happens. The bottom line is – It is your day. Happy Planning.
By Jools MacKnight, Registered Marriage Celebrant