Choosing the right celebrant is very important, people remember how you made them feel so you and your guests want a celebrant who makes you feel amazing because they have created a very special ceremony for you. You need to choose a celebrant who you feel a genuine connection with, you’ll need to feel comfortable with them and feel confident that they can create and perform the ceremony as you would expect.

What are the different types of celebrants?
There are several different types, but the two main ones are Humanist celebrants and independent celebrants.

An independent celebrant gives you real freedom of ceremony content, choice and options because a Humanist celebrant has certain beliefs which mean you are more restricted in your ceremony content. So, for example an independent celebrant can incorporate any religious or spiritual belief or will do a non-religious ceremony whereas a humanist celebrant will not incorporate any religion at all in their ceremonies. So, for a totally unrestricted ceremony choose an independent celebrant, and when you do an internet search for ‘celebrant’ – it’s a good starting point before you narrow down the options.

Are celebrants trained to do wedding ceremonies?

Celebrant’s often have nationally recognised qualifications, are members of professional associations and have business insurance. However, don’t assume they all have these important features, if you don’t see it on their website make sure you ask.

Choosing a celebrant – Who are they?

Research their social media, do they seem genuine or do they change, are they “modern” on one site and “traditional” on another. Follow celebrants, interact and see if what we are posting appeals to you. What are their beliefs and values in terms of their business, these are part of what they do and should be reflected by what you see?  For example, I believe in ceremonies without limits, honesty, integrity and transparency, one area you can see this is the fact that my website is very clear and detailed with all the prices visible. https://www.amandasceremonies.com/wedding-ceremonies/

 

When looking at their website can you get an idea of their personality, have they got photos/videos and reviews? Have they got blogs on their website where they share their knowledge and expertise? Celebrants who are just starting out won’t some of these things but don’t discount them just because of that, they may be right for you.

Try and get recommendations from those who have been to a celebrant ceremony and ask suppliers especially photographers as they work closely with celebrants.  

If suppliers mention celebrants on their social media or have them listed on their websites as recommended suppliers, that’s a good sign! See an example here https://lottiephotography.com/wedding-stories/my-friends/

Do you feel a connection with them, this is important because your relationship is very important. You want someone who you feel you can trust, and who is approachable and open minded. After all, you are trusting them with one of the most important aspects of your day, the ceremony.

Arrange a call with them, preferably on zoom and have a chat, do they seem confident and knowledgeable or assertive and inflexible, there’s a big difference.

What sort of wedding ceremonies can I have with a celebrant?

Some celebrants choose to specialise in one style of ceremony which can be great if you know exactly what you want. However, I believe that a celebrant with a range of ceremony choices and prices really puts you first, they want you to have freedom of choice, this is a good sign.

It also means they know about different ceremonies and are open minded about creating and adapting ceremonies to suit you.

When you discuss ceremonies the more adaptable, they are the better it is for you. Generally, it means they have had good training so have a wide range of expertise which is exactly what you should be looking for. See my range of ceremony choices here https://www.amandasceremonies.com/wedding-ceremonies/

Do celebrants do more than one ceremony a day?

This is important for you to find out. In terms of exclusivity choose a celebrant who will only perform one ceremony a day, so they are focused on your day and won’t be rushing to or from another ceremony. This is important because for example if their first ceremony overruns then they may be late or stressed when they arrive to be with you. In terms of your wedding day, it’s all about you so I only do one ceremony a day, so when things happen there’s never an issue.

For example, at one wedding the best man was delayed so we waited for him, on another it was raining for an outdoor ceremony so again, we waited for the rain to pass.

If your preferred celebrant isn’t based in your area this may incur extra costs. If this is a concern seek clarification, and if you need a celebrant closer to home ask for a recommendation. Many celebrants are in professional associations so will probably be able to recommend a celebrant nearer to you.

For example, at one wedding the best man was delayed so we waited for him, on another it was raining for an outdoor ceremony so again, we waited for the rain to pass.

If your preferred celebrant isn’t based in your area this may incur extra costs. If this is a concern seek clarification, and if you need a celebrant closer to home ask for a recommendation. Many celebrants are in professional associations so will probably be able to recommend a celebrant nearer to you.

About the author

I’m Amanda a modern celebrant who helps couples have the ceremony they deserve with real freedom of choice and personalisation. As a friendly award-winning celebrant, you’ll be guaranteed of a professional and stress-free approach to your big day. I have been featured in several newspapers and regularly write/blog for wedding magazines. To find out more check out my website https://www.amandasceremonies.com/