Question 1

What exactly is a celebrant?

Accepted Answer

A celebrant is someone who creates and conducts personalised ceremonies for life's important moments—weddings, funerals, namings, and other milestones. Unlike registrars or religious officiants, independent celebrants aren't restricted by legal frameworks or religious requirements, which means we can create truly bespoke ceremonies that reflect exactly what you want.

Question 2

What's the difference between a celebrant and a registrar?

Accepted Answer

Registrars conduct legally binding wedding ceremonies, but they must follow set scripts and can only work in licensed venues. Celebrants have complete creative freedom—we can work anywhere, include whatever elements you want, and craft ceremonies that are deeply personal. However, in Wales and England, celebrants can't currently conduct the legal marriage, so couples do a quick signing ceremony at a registry office separately (usually just 10 minutes with two witnesses).

Question 3

Do you work within a specific religion?

Accepted Answer

I'm not ordained in any religion, but I'm happy to incorporate spiritual or religious elements into your ceremony if that's meaningful to you. I work with people of all faiths and none, creating ceremonies that reflect your beliefs and values.

Question 4

Where are you based and where do you work?

Accepted Answer

I'm based in Cwmbran, Torfaen, and work throughout South East Wales including Monmouthshire, Newport, Blaenau Gwent, Vale of Glamorgan, Powys, the Forest of Dean, Wye Valley, and surrounding areas. If your ceremony is a bit further afield, get in touch—I may still be able to help!

Question 5

We love the idea of a celebrant ceremony, but do we still need to get legally married?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in Wales and England you'll need to do your legal paperwork at a registry office—a simple signing ceremony with two witnesses that typically takes about 10 minutes. Most couples do this a few days before or after their celebrant ceremony. The legal bit is administrative; the ceremony with me is where you actually get married in the hearts and minds of everyone present.

Question 6

Can we get married anywhere?

Accepted Answer

Yes! That's one of the best things about celebrant-led ceremonies. You can marry in a barn, woodland clearing, beach, garden, hilltop, pub, family home, or anywhere that's meaningful to you. We just need permission from the landowner and a backup plan if you're outdoors.

Question 7

Can we write our own vows?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Writing your own vows makes the ceremony even more personal. I'll guide you through the process and help you craft words that feel authentic. If you're not confident writers, we can work together on vows that sound like you.

Question 8

What about handfasting or other traditions?

Accepted Answer

I love incorporating traditional rituals! Handfasting, jumping the besom, ring warming, unity candles, cultural traditions from your heritage—tell me what's meaningful to you and we'll weave it into your ceremony.

Question 9

Can our dog be part of the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Many couples include their furry friends as ring bearers, attendants, or just beloved guests. Just make sure someone can look after them if they get excited!

Question 10

What happens if it rains?

Accepted Answer

We'll always have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies. Some of the most magical ceremonies happen in gentle rain with happy couples under umbrellas, but if you prefer, we'll arrange an indoor alternative.

Question 11

How quickly can you arrange a funeral ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Funerals typically happen 1-2 weeks after death, and I'm experienced in creating meaningful ceremonies even with short timelines. Contact me as soon as you know the date, and I'll do everything I can to help.

Question 12

Do you work with funeral directors?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I work closely with funeral directors throughout South Wales and am familiar with all the local crematoriums, cemeteries, and venues. I'll coordinate everything with them to ensure the day runs smoothly.

Question 13

What if we don't know much about the person's life?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes I work with families who were estranged or distant relatives arranging funerals for people they didn't know well. I can still create a dignified, respectful ceremony. We'll focus on universal themes of life, death, and remembrance.

Question 14

Can the ceremony include religious elements?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. While I'm not ordained, I'm happy to include prayers, hymns, or readings from religious texts as part of a broader ceremony that reflects the person's beliefs.

Question 15

Can family members speak at the funeral?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if they wish to. I'll provide guidance on timing and structure, and I'm always there as backup if emotions make it too difficult on the day.

Question 16

What about natural or woodland burials?

Accepted Answer

I love conducting ceremonies at natural burial grounds. These beautiful, peaceful settings are perfect for people who loved nature and wanted an environmentally conscious farewell.

Question 17

When should we have a naming ceremony?

Accepted Answer

There's no "right time"—whenever feels right for you! Many families celebrate when babies are 3-6 months old, but I've created ceremonies for newborns, toddlers, school-age children, and even teenagers. It's never too late.

Question 18

What's the difference between godparents and guideparents?

Accepted Answer

The role is similar—special people who promise to guide and support your child—but "guideparents" is a secular term. You can call them whatever feels right to you!

Question 19

Can we have both a naming ceremony and a christening?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Some families choose to have both, or incorporate elements from different traditions into one ceremony.

Question 20

What about family blending ceremonies?

Accepted Answer

When families come together through new relationships, a family blending ceremony can help acknowledge changes, celebrate new connections, and help children feel valued and included in the new family structure. It's a beautiful way to mark this transition.

Question 21

How do we book you?

Accepted Answer

First, get in touch via email or phone. We'll arrange an initial conversation to discuss your plans and make sure we're a good fit. If you'd like to proceed, I'll send you a booking form and invoice. Once that's returned with a deposit, your date is secured.

Question 22

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

Wedding ceremonies: £320-£800 depending on package
Funerals: £210 (£150 for memorials)
Namings: £280
Full pricing details are on each service page.

Question 23

Do you require a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a deposit of 50% secures your booking, with the balance due two weeks before your ceremony.

Question 24

What's your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Life happens, and I understand plans sometimes change. My cancellation policy is outlined in the booking agreement. If you need to postpone rather than cancel, I'll do my best to accommodate your new date.

Question 25

Do you travel beyond South Wales?

Accepted Answer

My primary area is South East Wales and surrounding regions, but I'm happy to discuss ceremonies further afield. Travel fees may apply for longer distances.

Question 26

What's the process like?

Accepted Answer

After our initial consultation and booking, I'll send you a detailed questionnaire to gather information. We'll then have deeper conversations (in person, by video, or phone) to really understand your story and vision. I'll draft your ceremony script for your review and refinement. On the day, I'll arrive early to coordinate everything and deliver your ceremony with warmth and confidence.

Question 27

How involved are we in writing the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

As involved as you want to be! Some people love being hands-on with every detail; others prefer to trust me with most decisions. I'll always send you drafts to review and make changes together until it's perfect.

Question 28

What if we're not confident public speakers?

Accepted Answer

That's completely fine—I'll guide you through everything and make sure you feel prepared. Most people who worry about this find they're more comfortable than expected on the day. And if you get emotional, that's okay too!

Question 29

Can we meet in person?

Accepted Answer

Yes! While I'm happy to work via video call or phone if that's easier, I always love meeting people face-to-face when possible. We can meet for coffee, at your home, or anywhere convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions about celebrant ceremonies answered

General Questions

Weddings

Funerals

Namings & Family Ceremonies

Booking & Logistics

Working Together

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