MARRIAGE CELEBRANT

This is the one ceremony which can only be conducted by an authorised person subject to regulation by the federal Attorney General. There are two elements which are required by law, such as the mandatory vows, but otherwise the event in terms of timing, location, structure and style are up to you.

While this is an exciting palate to work with, it can also be a trap for ‘young players’ with the temptations of wanting to include too much. I believe the best wedding ceremonies should not be too long or overblown or complicated. Less can undoubtedly be more. That said there’s a range of options such as rituals (Jumping the Broomstick is a favourite), readings and music which can make the event even more special.

FuneraLS and FAREWELLS

I have never shied away from death. As a reporter I have covered too much of it, I have been privileged to write a number of obituaries of those famous and less so, and I sit on a government board reforming the funeral industry.

A celebrant can bring so much to the proper send-off of a loved. It might be composing or delivering the eulogy, or help others to do likewise; it might be encouraging the speakers at the wake to say their piece, or it could be structuring a farewell ceremony which honestly reflects the individual and their legacy. There’s always sadness and grief to accept and manage, but every life is also worthy of celebration and joy whatever caused its ending. In the most trying of circumstances and worst of days, a celebrant can help families both navigate and make the most of any funeral or wake.

mc reception and events

I have much experience in conducting events large and small and ensuring they: move along in time with coordination and clarity, everyone knows their role, and when to perform it, the audience feel included and amused (where suitable). I have witnessed many occasions where imprecise introductions, poor control over the clock and too many or too long speeches have distracted from what should be the unqualified delight of those gathered. With an MC who knows their work, these risks are minimised, and the possibilities magnified.

baby naming

Many years as a reporter has given me a respect for and love of the beautiful range of names by which we are all known. As Church baptisms became less frequent, many parents want to celebrate their offspring with a naming ceremony shared with family and friends. It can be a straightforward yet moving ceremony, often in backyards, which sets the young person on their way with their ‘unique’ signifier of an energetic and suitable name.

renewal of vows

You don’t have to have broken or forgotten your marriage vows to want to make them again!  Couples can choose a relevant anniversary to remind each other of the commitments they made to each other at their wedding. They may repeat their original vows verbatim or add new and loving words for each other.

Marriage is not always easy, and they may choose to gather before loved one to draw on the undoubted energy and support, making a vow in public can provide. You can be old or young, and vows are timeless and forever but reminding yourselves, and others of what they are and what they mean to you can be a wonderful experience.

life stage ceremonies

Engagement, graduation and even divorce. People mind meaning in ceremonies to mark occasions be they the birth of something new and special or the loss and end of one stage of their life. An understanding of the role and power of ceremony can help these significant transitions have more meaning and context. The right celebrant helps them become even more real.