Choosing the perfect celebrant for your special day can be, at times, an overwhelming experience.  There are so many celebrants to choose from.  Indeed in Australia there are over 11,000 registered marriage celebrants. Not that long ago the number of civil celebrants was almost a tenth of what it is today.   Each civil celebrant offers their unique style, presentation and importantly how they connect with you and your wedding guests.  A professional and experienced celebrant will set the tone for the rest of your wedding celebration.  Having been involved in the wedding industry for over 20 years I have attended countless wedding ceremonies.  Like you, I have sat there as a guest.  Some celebrants have stood out for all the right reasons and others not.

 

So what makes a good celebrant an awesome celebrant?

 

An awesome celebrant will take the time to really know the couple they are marrying.  They will ask questions about your relationship, what your family and friends mean to you, your proposal, your hopes and dreams for the future as husband and wife.  I always ask my couples what they truly love, adore and even tolerate about each other (always guaranteed a laugh!).   An awesome celebrant will always arrive at your ceremony early. They won’t forget names, they will conduct your ceremony like you have been friends for years.  They will look and speak to all of your family and friends and not forget to acknowledge your beautiful bridal party.  Your guests will not be spectators at the ceremony  – they will be part of your celebration.  They will always put you at ease and have everything in place before you walk down the aisle.    An awesome celebrant will work closely with your photographer, making sure they are getting perfect shot every time during your ceremony.  They won’t jam a microphone in the front of your face when you are exchanging your once in a lifetime vow to your partner – a special moment that your photographer will want to capture.  They won’t be looking at their watch wondering if they are going to make their next appointment or ceremony.  They will be professional and experienced enough to acknowledge that sometimes a ceremony can start a little late – that’s life after all.  They will schedule ceremonies to allow for unplanned situations that may pop up from time to time.  Changes in weather, transport or traffic to your ceremony all play a part that no one has control over.  And most importantly an awesome celebrant will conduct your marriage ceremony in accordance with the Marriage Act to ensure it is valid – a small detail I know!

 

When choosing the right celebrant you may wish to ask how many ceremonies they book in one day.  Confirm whether they are affiliated with any recognised celebrant association here or internationally.  As part of their service do they include a rehearsal, signing table and a quality PA system?  Ask the celebrant whether they have any referrals or testimonials from past clients or other wedding suppliers.  Finally a consideration which is often overlooked is what should happen if the celebrant is unable to officiate your ceremony due to an unforeseen circumstance such as illness – I hope I haven’t just jinxed myself!

 

For your once in a lifetime ceremony make sure you choose a celebrant who is experienced, contemporary, personal and trusted.

You can contact me anytime through my 24/7 chat room by visiting my website marriedbysimon.com.au.

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  • We couldn’t have ask for a more intimate and loving ceremony. Simon’s kind words, readings and professionalism were greatly appreciated. All went to plan, better than we imagined! He was very helpful and considerate when it came to our request. Thank you once again Simon.

    Michael and Maria

  • We just want to thank you Simon for really helping Lincoln and I along the way.  You really helped in every way possible and made us feel so comfortable.  Our guests are still telling us how good of a celebrant you were, so don’t be surprised if you get some calls!  Couldn’t be happier with the service you provided.  Best celebrant (insert smiley face!).

    Melina and Lincoln

  • There is no possible way to thank you for the effort that you went to, to make our ceremony as personal and perfect as it was.  Almost two months on people are still talking about how wonderful you and our ceremony was.  Thank you so much Simon from the bottom of our hearts.  You made our day perfect.

    Jason and Shantelle

  • Thank you Simon, for your overwhelming enthusiasm for our wedding with a difference. We couldn’t believe how dedicated and supportive you were in making it something we will never forget. To see you walking down the aisle as Lord Darth Vader was an image that will remain with us forever. Your kind words, your sense of humour and your willingness to do whatever it took to make our day just the way we imagined. Your personal service and professional commitment was unwavering and it was our honour to have you preside over our marriage… We would most highly recommend you to anyone. May the force be with you! And that’s no word of a lie!!!

    Mick and Kirrily

  • Thank you for everything you did leading up to and during our ceremony.  Your friendly and confident approach made us feel very comfortable and at ease on the big day and you played a big part in that we just wanted to say thank you very much.

    Rohan and Simone

  • We would like to thank you for the great job you did at our beach wedding. You were so professional and caring about everything and everyone. You had all the equipment set up on the beach and everyone was able to hear you clearly. You made our day so special and stress free. We have been to a lot of weddings and the celebrants don’t come anywhere near your presentation. At the end of the ceremony everyone was commenting on how personal the ceremony was and how modern you presented yourself at the ceremony. We highly recommend having Simon for your wedding. As a celebrant you would not find a more professional, caring, honest, young and touching one like him. Thanks Simon.

    Angela and Lucas