Who does not want a storyteller for
a celebrant?!
With a background in theatre I can promise an engaging and skillfully delivered ceremony, full of heart and wit. To create these ceremonies is a labour of love for me and I can guarantee you that the uninvited guests Stiff and Impersonal (who unfortunately often sneak their way into weddings) come no where near them.
As an independent celebrant, I take the time to get to know you, tune in and really understand what you need your ceremony to be and why. Many believe a wedding ceremony has to be shaped in a specific way, but that could not be more untrue. Traditional or alternative, sacred or hilarious — your ceremony can be exactly what you want it to be.
STIFF
IMPERSONAL
"It's hard to describe what a special human Amanda is — but you'll quickly realise when you meet her! She made our wedding day everything we had hoped for and more, and was also a reassuringly warm and calm presence in the weeks beforehand. Her meticulous preparations for the ceremony ensured everything ran smoothly on the day - in a personalised way, without some of the usual formalities we were keen to avoid. But what we loved even more was her energy... She really does radiate love. Thank you Amanda, our wedding wouldn't have been the same without you!"
– Lucia and Will
One of my favourite parts of this job is to sit down with you to hear the in:s and out:s of your relational journey. The funny quirks as well as the challenging times; the things that make your relationship and story unique. These meetings are truly what makes this role so very special.
To then take these gems of experiences and turn them into a ceremony that feels authentic, meaningful and right for you - that is one of my greatest joys. To tell your story back to you, in a way that honours your experience and helps you set your intentions for the future.
Handfastings
The old custom of handfasting, dating back to pre-roman times, has again gained popularity in our modern day and age. Originally a betrothal ceremony, a handfasting bound a couple to a commitment of a year and a day. When this time had passed an evaluation was encouraged, after which they could decide to either wed or break off the engagement. Nowadays the ritual is often used as part of the wedding itself, bringing the qualities of conscious commitment and cultural heritage into the ceremony.
Handfasting can be done in many ways; with different style knots and coloured ribbons, all bearing different symbology to take into consideration. If you would like a handfasting as part of your ceremony, let me know and I would be happy to guide you through it!
Why use an independent celebrant for your wedding?
Working with a celebrant gives you the possibility to have a tailor made, "perfect for you"-ceremony — however and wherever you want. Without the time restriction and legal obligations of a registrar, a celebrant has the time and skill to craft a ceremony that represents you and your intentions and ideas of getting married. Most couples who use a celebrant go to the register office a few days/weeks before the wedding, to have their marriage legally registered. The actual wedding then becomes the day of celebration, and when the couple spiritually and emotionally makes their commitment to one another.
Feeling unsure of the legal procedure?
Just ask and I'm happy to offer guidance and support!
How does it work?
2.
If you feel that I'm the celebrant for you — you book! I ask for a deposit/first installment and secure the date for your wedding in the calendar.
3.
I send you a questionnaire to fill out individually in your own time: questions about your relationship, how you met and your hopes and dreams for the future as well as more in depth questions about your wishes for your wedding day. Answering these questions is a beautiful opportunity to reflect on your relationship and journey together so far as well as properly start the creative process of imagining your wedding.
4.
I interview you separately, either face to face or on Zoom. This might seem a little odd - why not together? But I have found that speaking about your relationship and partner without them around, opens up a different kind of memories and emotions. It also gives me a chance to hear your different perspectives and views on things. It is often a really beautiful practice, leaving you feeling more in love than ever!
In this meeting we'll also go through some of the answers in the questionnaire, checking I've understood your needs and wishes correctly.
5.
I write the script for your ceremony, including all the elements of entrance, readings and symbolic rituals. I ask for the second installment and then send the script over to you to review. Your welcome to make any amendments or requests until we're all happy and convinced that we've reached the final version.
6.
Your ceremony is now set but I'm still available for questions and guidance all the way up to your wedding day. Those wishing for support with their personal vows can also book a private session with me for no extra charge.
7.
If you wish, I will also lead a rehearsal of the ceremony. This is when the wedding party get together to go through the procedure step by step, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and confident in their roles. In this way you will all be able to relax and fully enjoy when the actual ceremony is happening.
8.
It's your big day! I arrive on site early to support where ever needed, before coming together in an unforgettable ceremony.
9.
I ask for the third and last installment and am also very grateful for any photographs you would like to share from the ceremony as well as a testamonial. I send you a beautiful, keep safe copy of your ceremony script together with my warmest well wishes for your new chapter of married life!
1.
You book a free discovery call. We'll get to have a chat and get a feeling for each other as well as your thoughts and wishes for your wedding.
Prices
The price for the service is £900, to be paid in three installments of £300.
Handfastings
Alternative weddings
Unique weddings
Queer wedding celebrant
LGBTQ + wedding celebrant
Wedding celebrant in Pembrokeshire, Wales
Symbolic rituals
Ring warmings
Spiritual celebrant
Storyteller
Celtic wheel of the year
Beltane
Samhain
Storytelling ceremony