What is an independent civil celebrant?
An independent civil celebrant can write and deliver non-religious, spiritual, or religious bespoke ceremonies. Unlike a Humanist celebrant, who does not officiate at services with any kind of religious or spiritual references, an independent celebrant can combine both spiritual and non-religious references, words, readings and prayers into your service.
How do you create our wedding or civil partnership ceremony?
Firstly, we have an initial video call – that way you won’t need to spend on travelling and you can tell if I’m the right person to conduct your ceremony. We can have a chat about what your ideas are for your big day.
After our meeting, if you feel that I’m the right person to officiate at your wedding, you can confirm the booking and I’ll ask for a deposit to secure my services for your date.
The next step is for us to meet in person (Covid-19 restrictions permitting). I’ll ask you questions so that I get to know you and your love story – that way I can make some suggestions for what to include in your ceremony.
I will then write a first draft of your bespoke ceremony using your ideas and considering your values and beliefs. This will be sent to you once the balance of the fee is paid a month before the wedding. We can then fine-tune the wording until you’re confident and happy, and feel prepared for your big day. You can call or email me, and we can meet again before the date to talk through the ceremony and make sure you feel confident that everything will run smoothly.
On the day, I will get there early to make sure everyone involved in the ceremony knows exactly what they are doing, where they need to be and when they need to be there.
Once the ceremony is over and you’re enjoying the beginning of the rest of your lives together, I will present you with a special copy of the script to have as a keepsake.
Do you deliver ceremonies for the LGBTQ+ community?
Absolutely, though it seems a bit weird that I feel I need to state that.
Can you help with our vows?
Yes, I would be delighted to help you find the right words to express your commitment to one another.
We know what generally happens, but what can we do to make our ceremony different?
Good question! This is what makes being a celebrant such a great job – creating moments that suit you as a couple and shows everyone there how committed you are to each other. They can also be a lot of fun!
You could include a mini-ceremony involving a unity candle, the mixing of sands, a hand fasting (literally ‘tying the knot’) or have a more pagan aspect and jump the broomstick together. Whatever you like.
You could also be more traditional and have a certificate of marriage I have prepared that we can sign during the ceremony. It’s rather like signing the register, but is simply commemorative rather than legal. It’s a good moment for some photograph taking too.
Can you marry us legally?
No, that has to be done by a Registrar, as there are specific words you must say to make it legal. You can have a simple 10-minute meeting at your local Registry Office with just the two of you and two witnesses (often known as a ‘two plus two’) costing from £57. You don’t even have to exchange rings at that meeting, so that when you are standing in front of your friends and family later, everyone can witness that special moment.
Do you do themed or spiritual/pagan ceremonies?
Absolutely. Whatever way you want to express yourselves, I’m up for it. That’s what makes your day unique, special and unforgettable. Remember, you aren’t tied to any legal wording or formalities so you can have as much fun as you like while still marking those moments where you commit to one another.
What else can you offer?
As a trained singer, if you would like me to sing something during your ceremony, I would be honoured to do so. Additionally, if you would like someone to manage proceedings throughout the day, such as making sure people are in the right place for speeches, making announcements and introductions - a master of ceremonies - I would be very happy to be there for you.
How much does it cost?
Weddings and civil partnerships are £750.
Vow renewals, namings and family ceremonies are £425.
Funerals are £275.
Ceremonies outside the UK are £1,000.
The materials for the mini-ceremonies are extra, but not expensive – ribbons, bespoke candles, certificates etc.
There would be an additional fee if you would like me to sing or be master of ceremonies.
I am based in North London and will only charge extra for travel/accommodation if your ceremony is outside the M25 – we can discuss this during our many conversations.
For all ceremonies, you will be given a presentation copy of the script as a keepsake.
How much deposit do we need to pay?
A non-refundable deposit of 50% (subject to the 14-days statutory cooling off period) is due to secure the date. This covers meetings, travel and the first draft etc.
When is the balance due?
The balance is due 28 days before the date of your ceremony. Once this is paid, I will send you the first draft of the ceremony.