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.