What is your most memorable wedding?
My first one! An intimate gathering for a couple who decided to tie the knot after 25 years together. They wanted a relaxed but sincere ceremony, and the emotion in the room was palpable as we reflected on everything that had brought them to that point - they had stood by each other through so much in life and their ceremony was a beautiful celebration of the strength and depth of their love. I feel so privileged to be a part of every wedding, but this first one was a real pinch-me moment, realising that being a part of people's story and one of the most joyful days of their lives was my job now! Lucky, lucky me.
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Approachable, authentic, personal, meaningful and great craic!
What about your business are you most proud of?
Each time I create and deliver a bespoke script to a couple, and they reply saying they love it, I feel so chuffed and happy. Knowing that I've captured the essence of their love and relationship by choosing the right words and creating a ceremony that flows seamlessy between elements is so fulfilling.
What is your No. 1 wedding planning tip for couples?
The only thing you truly need to get married is the two of you and someone to make it legal. Everything else is extra! Viewing your wedding this way will let you think about what is important to you as a couple and what you want to have as part of your wedding, not what you think you need to have because it's "expected". Have the big bash if you want to, or do it in your back garden - anything goes as long as it makes you happy! If something's creating more stress than happiness, ditch it.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
The "speech" section was actually made up of creative "gifts" to the couple, including bespoke medleys of songs, flash mobs, voice messages from people who couldn't be there, poems and everything in between. It was so fun, meaningful and so THEM.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
My process really varies couple to couple, depending on their preferred communication style and how close to their wedding they are when they're booking, but first up I always offer a non obligation Zoom or meeting, so they can get a good feel for who I am and my vibe. It's really important you gel with your celebrant and feel like they understand you as a couple, as the more comfortable you feel sharing bits about yourself with your celebrant, the more YOU your ceremony will be.
We'll get the paperwork ball rolling if they're getting legally married, and then we'll meet a few months before the wedding day to start chatting about their vision for the ceremony. From this point the process is very bespoke, but will include me finding out lots about you as a couple so I can tell your story in a way that fits your personalities. I can also offer help with creating personal vows, choosing poems or readings, including cultural or symbolic rituals and even with organising little surprises for your partner or your guest!
You'll get to sign off on your finalised ceremony script a few weeks before your wedding, then in most cases we'll get a wee rehearsal at your venue to ease off any pre wedding jitters! On the day I will be there nice and early to catch up with you both before the ceremony, to prepare your guests and then to kick off your celebrations in style!
What is the most unusual thing you’ve been asked to plan?
Nothing too crazy but `I have enjoyed a few unconvential "themes"!
How do you ensure a stress-free wedding?
I really passionately believe that stress and wedding planning should not be synonymous. Yes, there is unavoidable stress that comes with being alive! But I think a lot of couples feel that if they're not stressed they're not being productive. I think that with good organisation and most importantly, patient, clear and kind communication, your wedding dreams can come to life in a relaxed way. (Picking good vendors helps too!)
What do you love most about your job?
Hearing people's stories. How they found each other, what's kept them together, what they're hoping for their future - I find the intricacies and individualities of everyday life pretty extraordinary, and all of my couples inspire me in some way or open my eyes to something new. And I love seeing couples opt for a humanist wedding where their love is the most important thing in the room!
What is your favourite moment at a wedding?
The pronouncement - getting to announce you to the world as a newly married couple is so special and is always such a jubilant moment. As we say in Belfast, Yeeeoo!