Frequently asked questions
Have questions about how it all works? From what to expect to how we’ll plan your ceremony, you’ll find clear, helpful answers to the most common queries here.
What is a celebrant?
A celebrant is a trained professional who creates and delivers personalised ceremonies that reflect your story, values and wishes. Unlike registrar led services, a celebrant ceremony is not restricted by legal wording, religious content or venue rules meaning your ceremony can be anywhere, anytime, and completely tailored to you.
Are celebrant ceremonies legally binding?
At the moment in England and Wales, celebrant led ceremonies are not legally binding. Most couples choose to complete the legal “signing” at a registry office beforehand or afterwards, which can be done very simply and at low cost. Currently around £46.00 and all you need is 2 witnesses. I can help you with all this. See it as wedding admin!
Your celebrant ceremony is then the main event, the meaningful, personal celebration in front of your loved ones.
Where can we hold our ceremony?
Anywhere you like!
That’s one of the biggest advantages of choosing a celebrant. Barns, gardens, woodland clearings, fields, hotels, lakesides, your family home, the options are endless.
Can we include religious or cultural elements?
Absolutely. Celebrant ceremonies are flexible. You can include faith-based readings, cultural rituals, symbolic moments, or keep everything completely non-religious. The ceremony is built around your preferences.
Do you help us write our vows?
Yes,as much or as little as you need.
I can guide you through the process, offer templates and examples, or help you edit vows you’ve already written. Some couples prefer to keep their vows secret from one another until the day, and I help manage that too!
Will we meet before the ceremony?
Definitely. We’ll have an in depth meeting (in person or online) so I can learn your story, understand your personalities and talk through your ideas. For weddings, we stay in touch regularly throughout the planning process. I’m always just an email or call away.
How long does a celebrant ceremony last?
Most ceremonies last between 20 and 35 minutes, depending on your content and chosen elements. Naming ceremonies and funerals tend to be slightly shorter, but every ceremony is tailored to you.
What happens if you’re ill on the day?
I have trusted celebrant colleagues in the Oxfordshire and Cotswolds network who can step in should an emergency arise. I make sure your script, ceremony details and all personal touches are fully prepared so a backup celebrant could deliver it seamlessly.
Do you offer rehearsals?
Yes. If you’d like a rehearsal, especially for weddings, I’m happy to arrange one at your venue or online. It helps everyone feel relaxed and confident on the day.
How far do you travel?
I’m based in Oxfordshire and regularly work across the Cotswolds and surrounding counties. I’m happy to travel further afield, anywhere with in 30mins drive is free and then I ask for 50p a mile after that. Just ask, and we can discuss travel arrangements.
Can we include family members or friends in the ceremony?
Yes and I encourage it! Readings, music, symbolic rituals, giving blessings, or simply standing with you at key moments all help make the ceremony meaningful and memorable.
What symbolic elements can we include?
Lots of beautiful options, including:
• Handfasting
• Sand ceremonies
• Unity candles
• Ring warming
• Tree planting
• Personal rituals unique to your story
These can be traditional, modern or completely bespoke.
How do you write our ceremony?
I write each ceremony from scratch, based on everything you share with me. I’ll send you a draft in advance so you can make edits or adjustments. Nothing is included without your approval.
Are your ceremonies LGBTQ+ friendly?
Absolutely, wholeheartedly. Every love story and every family is welcome.
How do we book you?
Just get in touch via my contact page, and we can arrange a chat. If the date is available and the service feels right for you, I’ll send a booking form and deposit details to secure your ceremony.
