The Importance Of Choosing The Right Celebrant

While the legalities of getting married are important, the celebrant plays a much bigger role. They are the heart and soul of your ceremony, setting the tone and guiding you through this momentous occasion. Choosing the right celebrant ensures a ceremony that reflects your unique personalities, values, and vision for your special day.

How Your Celebrant Shapes Your Ceremony

Your celebrant can make or break your ceremony. A celebrant who doesn’t listen to your ideas, disregards your requests or tries to impose their beliefs can create frustration and stress during the planning process and even embarrass you during the ceremony.

A great celebrant takes the time to get to know you and your partner as a couple. They weave your unique love story, personalities, and values into the ceremony script, incorporating special details that resonate with you and your guests. This personal touch creates a ceremony that feels genuine and emotionally impactful.

Setting the tone: From light-hearted and whimsical to romantic and traditional, your celebrant’s style sets the overall mood of the ceremony. Do you envision a heartfelt exchange with personal anecdotes or a more formal and classic approach?

Crafting your script: A skilled celebrant doesn’t just recite a generic script. They work closely with you to create a personalised ceremony that incorporates elements that hold significance to you and your partner. This could include readings from loved ones, cultural traditions, or even a unique vow exchange.

Delivery with heart: A good celebrant doesn’t just read the script; they deliver it with warmth, sincerity, and a touch of humour (if that’s your style). They connect with you and your guests, creating a touching and memorable experience.

Compatibility is Key

Finding the right celebrant goes beyond ticking boxes on a checklist. It’s about finding someone you feel comfortable with, someone who understands your vision, and someone who can easily guide you through the process.

Communication and trust: The planning process involves open communication and a sense of trust. You want a celebrant who actively listens to your ideas, respects your wishes, and offers creative suggestions that align with your vision.

Personality match: Your celebrant will be a central figure during your ceremony. Their personality should complement yours and your partner’s. Do you prefer someone warm and approachable or someone more formal and authoritative?

Chemistry matters: Imagine feeling nervous and awkward during your first meeting with your celebrant. Not ideal! There should be a natural rapport and comfort level that allows you to express yourselves freely.

What to Ask Your Potential Celebrant

The initial meeting with a celebrant is your chance to assess their experience, style, and personality. Here are some key questions to ask to help you find the perfect match:

Experience and Qualifications:

· How long have you been a celebrant?

· What types of ceremonies do you typically perform (traditional, religious, non-religious, etc.)?

· Can you share some examples of past ceremonies you’ve officiated? (testimonials or portfolio examples can also be helpful)

Personalisation and Flexibility:

· Do you work collaboratively with couples to personalise their ceremonies?

· Are you open to incorporating cultural traditions or readings from loved ones?

· How flexible are you with the structure of the ceremony (e.g., vow exchange format, ceremony length)?

· Can you offer assistance with writing our wedding vows?

· Can we read over the ceremony before the day?

Logistics and Fees:

· What is your availability on our wedding date?

· What does your fee include (rehearsal, travel, etc.)?

· Do you have a PA system and microphone?

· What happens in case of unforeseen circumstances (e.g., illness)?

· Are you willing to do a ceremony rehearsal?

Bonus Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask about their process! How do they work with couples during the planning stages? What resources do they provide to help you craft your ceremony?

Photo by Paul Wilson Weddings
www.paulwilsonweddings.com

Celebrant: Hitched By Britt
www.hitchbybritt.co.nz