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Common Questions and Answers

The same questions are frequently asked about celebrant-led ceremonies, so I thought I'd put them, and their answers, right here.  Obviously if you have any other questions that aren't covered, please do get in touch.

Can you legally marry us or formalise our civil partnership?

Unfortunately not, you will need to complete the legal side of the marriage or civil partnership at the register office with a Marriage or Civil Partnership Registration.  You can do this before, or just after, your bespoke ceremony with me.

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If you're in North Northants, this is the link to follow to book your Marriage or Civil Partnership Registration:

https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/weddings-and-civil-partnerships/plan-and-book-your-wedding-or-civil-partnership-ceremony

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For West Northants, follow this link:

https://www.westnorthants.gov.uk/weddings-and-civil-partnerships/plan-your-wedding-or-civil-partnership-ceremony

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How long before a ceremony should we book your services?

When you have decided the date and venue that is the time to book me.  Deciding on your celebrant is a very personal choice, so when you find the right person it is important to book your date in their diary as soon as you can.

Can we have religious or spiritual content in our ceremony?

Absolutely, I am more than happy to include religious, or other cultural content in to your ceremony.  That's the beauty of holding your  ceremony me - it will be truly personal and significant to you.

Are there any restrictions on where or when we can hold our ceremony?

No! You are restricted only by your imagination and the weather!  If you plan to hold your ceremony outdoors, it is a good idea to have a wet weather plan - you don't want soggy guests!

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And you will need to ensure that you have permission from the land or location owner/manager to use the place for your ceremony

Can I have a ceremony if I'm not divorced?

Yes, you can.  There are no legal implications with the ceremonies that I conduct.  My ceremonies enable you celebrate your love and commitment to each other

I'm not good at public speaking, do I have to say anything during the ceremony?

You don't have to say anything, you need to be happy and comfortable with your role in the ceremony. If you are exchanging vows they can be short and sweet and be repeated after me, or on the day, you may feel confident enough to read them from a card..

We're a same sex couple, will you conduct a ceremony for us?

Absolutely!

We'd like to renew our vows, but it isn't a special anniversary - is this ok?

Why not? If you want to re-declare your love for each other there doesn't have to be a landmark anniversary.  You can do it every year of your marriage - it's totally up to you!

Can we write our own vows?

Definitely!  In fact I encourage it because you know better than anyone else how you feel about your partner.  Obviously, if you are struggling I will help you, but I know that you really can do it!

We don't go to church but would like to have a celebration for our baby, is this possible?

 Ooo, yes.  A ceremony that names and welcomes the baby into your circle of family and friends is a beautiful way to celebrate the new arrival. It's also a great time to nominate adults who can help guide your child as they grow into adulthood.

Can we involve our guests in the ceremony?

Yes, there are various ways we can involve your guests, they may do a reading, say a prayer or join in with a symbolic ritual/action.

At a ceremony we attended, they planted a tree. Can we do something special like this?

Yes, there are lots of symbolic actions that we can add into your ceremony - you can even create your own. We'll chat about this when we meet.

What will you wear when you conduct the ceremony?

I usually wear a formal dress BUT I am happy to fit in with the style you've set for your day, and I’m not adverse to a bit of fancy dress! (although additional costs may be incurred if you do want me to wear something that is not in my wardrobe).  My aim is to blend in with your ceremony, not stand out.

What are your rules around photography?

Go for it! Professional photographers generally know where to stand for the best shots without getting in the way.  I usually have a chat with them before hand so they know about any mini-ceremonies etc.

On our ceremony day, what time will you arrive at the location and when do you leave?

Normally I will arrive at least an hour before the start of the ceremony, and will leave when the ceremony has finished, and you have moved on to the next stage of your celebration.

What happens if you are suddenly taken ill, or have an accident and can’t make the ceremony?

I have a network of other professional celebrants who are available to stand in. In the unlikely event of me being unable to attend, I will find a suitable replacement for you.

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