Frequently Asked Questions

This is such a lovely question because I genuinely believe that choosing a celebrant is about finding the right person, not simply comparing services.

Before becoming a celebrant, I spent over 34 years working as a paramedic and later as a clinical leader within the NHS. Throughout my career, I met people during some of the happiest and most difficult moments of their lives.

That experience taught me the importance of listening, kindness, compassion and making people feel completely at ease.

Today, those same values sit at the heart of every ceremony I create.

Whether I’m celebrating a wedding, welcoming a new baby, renewing wedding vows or leading a celebration of life, my aim is always the same – to tell your story with warmth, authenticity, gentle humour where appropriate and genuine care.

I often say that no two ceremonies should ever sound the same because no two stories are ever the same.

It all starts with a conversation.

I love hearing people’s stories – how you met, the adventures you’ve shared, the people who have shaped your lives or the memories that make you smile.

Depending on the ceremony, we’ll meet in person, chat online or speak over the phone. I’ll ask lots of gentle questions, and before long the conversation usually feels more like friends chatting over coffee than a formal interview.

Those conversations help me write a ceremony that couldn’t possibly belong to anyone else.

It’s one of my favourite parts of being a celebrant.

Please don’t worry.

In fact, I’d say most people come to me with lots of ideas swirling around in their heads but no real idea how to turn them into a ceremony.

That’s completely normal.

Part of my role is helping you discover what feels right for you.

I’ll guide you through the options, suggest ideas you may never have considered and gently help shape everything into a ceremony that feels natural, meaningful and uniquely yours.

You certainly don’t need to have all the answers before getting in touch.

Then we’ll simply embrace it.

Whether it’s tears during wedding vows, laughter while remembering someone special or happy emotions during a naming ceremony, every feeling is welcome.

Real ceremonies involve real people and real emotions.

There is never any expectation that everything has to be perfect.

If someone needs a moment to gather themselves, we’ll take that moment. If there’s spontaneous laughter, we’ll enjoy it together.

Some of the most memorable ceremonies I’ve ever conducted are the ones where people simply allowed themselves to feel whatever they needed to feel.

Whether you’re worried about speaking in front of guests, walking down the aisle, reading a tribute or simply wondering how you’ll hold everything together emotionally, you’re certainly not alone.

One of the nicest compliments I receive is when couples and families tell me they felt completely at ease once the ceremony began.

I’ll guide you every step of the way, quietly prompting you whenever you need me and making sure you never feel you’re facing the moment on your own.

My job is to help you relax so you can simply enjoy the experience.

Yes.

Although I’m based in Devon, I’m always happy to travel wherever your ceremony takes me.

Over the years I’ve had the privilege of conducting ceremonies across the country, and every new venue brings its own story and atmosphere.

If your chosen location is further away, I’ll simply explain any travel or accommodation costs in advance so there are no surprises.

Yes, and I absolutely love travelling for ceremonies.

Whether you’re planning a wedding overlooking the Mediterranean, renewing your vows on a beautiful beach or celebrating somewhere that’s meaningful to your family, I’d be delighted to travel with you.

I’ve already had the privilege of conducting ceremonies overseas, and destination celebrations really are something special.

They combine beautiful surroundings with the people you love most, creating memories that last a lifetime.

As soon as you have your date if possible.

Popular weekends, particularly during the spring and summer months, can book well over a year in advance.

However, if your ceremony is only a few weeks away, it’s always worth asking.

If I’m available, I’ll do everything I can to help.

Booking couldn’t be easier.

Simply get in touch through my Contact page, by email or by telephone.

We’ll arrange a relaxed chat so I can answer your questions and hear more about your plans.

If you decide I’m the right celebrant for you, I’ll explain the next steps and we’ll begin creating a ceremony that’s completely personal to you.

There is absolutely no pressure, and our first conversation is always without obligation.

Do celebrants conduct legal weddings?
Not in England and Wales. Most couples complete the legal registration separately before or after their personalised celebrant ceremony.
Can we get married outdoors?
Yes. A celebrant-led wedding can take place almost anywhere with the landowner’s permission and a suitable back-up plan for the weather.
Can we include our dog?
Absolutely! Dogs often become some of the most memorable guests at a wedding ceremony.
Can we write our own vows?
Yes. I’ll guide you through the process, or we can use beautifully written vows together if you prefer.
Can we have a completely personalised ceremony?
Yes. Every ceremony I write is created from scratch and tells your unique story.
Do funerals have to be religious?
No. They can be completely non-religious, gently spiritual or include religious elements if that’s what feels right for your family.
Can funerals include laughter?
Definitely. Many of the most meaningful celebrations of life include stories that make everyone smile as well as moments of reflection.
Can we hold a funeral somewhere other than a crematorium?
Yes. Ceremonies can take place in hotels, village halls, gardens, woodland, beaches, family homes and many other meaningful locations.
Can you help write a eulogy?
Of course. I’ll work with you to create a tribute that reflects your loved one’s life with warmth and authenticity.
Can we hold a ceremony after a direct cremation?
Yes. Many families choose to celebrate a loved one’s life days, weeks or even months later.
Are naming ceremonies just for babies?
No. Naming ceremonies can be held for children of any age, adopted children, siblings or blended families.
Are naming ceremonies religious?
No. They’re completely personalised celebrations and can reflect your family’s own beliefs and values.
Can we choose Guide Parents instead of Godparents?
Yes. Many families choose special adults to make promises of love, encouragement and support during the ceremony.
Why do couples renew their vows?
Every couple has their own reason, whether celebrating an anniversary, overcoming challenges or simply wanting to say, “I’d choose you all over again.”
Do you travel outside Devon?
Yes. I regularly travel throughout the UK and also conduct ceremonies overseas.
What makes you different from other celebrants?
I believe every story deserves to be told with warmth, kindness and authenticity. I take time to really get to know the people I work with, so every ceremony feels personal, relaxed and completely unique.