Frequently Asked Questions
General Services
What is a celebrant and how is it different from a registrar?
A celebrant creates completely personalised ceremonies that can include any elements meaningful to you – religious, spiritual, cultural, or entirely secular. Unlike registrar ceremonies, celebrant-led ceremonies aren't legally binding in England, so couples complete a brief legal signing separately (usually a few days before). This gives you complete freedom to create the ceremony of your dreams without legal restrictions.
What types of ceremonies do you offer?
Currently, I offer weddings (from £750), civil partnerships (from +£750), vow renewals and elopements (from £700), and pet ceremonies (from £250). I am expanding my services to include funeral services (including living funerals), naming and re-naming ceremonies, and citizenship celebrations in 2026. Each ceremony is completely bespoke and reflects your unique story and style.
How far will you travel?
My base rate includes travel up to 75 miles from Blackpool, covering Lancashire, southern Cumbria, Manchester, Liverpool, the Lake District, and more. Beyond 75 miles, I charge £25 for each additional 50-miles (in full or part), though this can be negotiated at our Tea & Biscuits meeting. I am happy to travel anywhere in the UK for the right celebration.
How far in advance should we book?
For wedding ceremonies I recommend 3-6 months to allow time for our collaborative planning process, but I can often accommodate shorter timelines. Every couple's situation is different, so get in touch regardless of your timeline. For funerals and renaming ceremonies please contact me as soon as possible, and we can discuss appropriate timescales.
Do you offer pet sitting services for your ceremonies?
If pets are either coming to a ceremony or are active participants within one (such as a pet wedding), then their welfare is very important. I do not offer pet sitting services myself; However if one is required I can arrange one. Please note, there will be an additional fee for pet sitting services.
Planning Process
What does the planning process involve?
We start with a relaxed "tea and biscuit moment" where we discuss your vision. Over up to two months, we'll have three planning meetings (online or in-person), and I'll create your ceremony script with up to three revisions included. Depending on your interests and location, I might arrange special planning sessions involving cocktail making, natural cosmetics demonstrations, or hairdressing.
Can we have input into the ceremony content?
Absolutely! This is your ceremony, and I want it to authentically reflect who you are. We'll work together to incorporate your stories, values, cultural traditions, shared interests, and any special elements that matter to you. The more involved you are, the more personal and meaningful your ceremony becomes.
Do you work with our other suppliers?
Yes! I arrive 90 minutes early on your day to coordinate with photographers, florists, musicians, and venue staff. I'm happy to suggest suppliers if you need recommendations, and I work to ensure your ceremony integrates seamlessly with all other elements of your celebration.
What if we want something completely unconventional?
Perfect! I love helping couples create ceremonies that don't fit traditional moulds. Whether you're inspired by literature, music, science, historical periods, or entirely original ideas, I'm excited to help bring your vision to life.
Ceremony Details
What's included in your ceremony packages?
All packages include travel within 75 miles of Blackpool, planning meetings, rehearsal, script revisions, and a ceremony folder. Wedding and civil partnership packages (£750) include three meetings and three script revisions. Elopement and vow renewal packages (£750) include three meetings and two revisions. Pet ceremonies (£250) include two meetings and two revisions. Optional hard-cover folders with personalisation available for additional £40.
Can you incorporate our cultural or religious traditions?
Absolutely! I love researching and respectfully incorporating traditions from different cultural and religious backgrounds. In my training, I created a ceremony beautifully blending South African and English traditions, and I'm excited to explore whatever heritage elements are meaningful to you.
What happens if it rains for an outdoor ceremony?
We'll always discuss weather contingency plans during our planning process. I'm experienced in adapting ceremonies for different weather conditions, and often rain can create surprisingly magical moments. We'll ensure you have backup plans that maintain the spirit of your intended celebration.
Do you officiate at any type of venue?
Yes! As an independent celebrant, I can officiate anywhere you can legally hold a gathering. I particularly love historic buildings, ruins, quirky venues with character, beautiful outdoor settings, and anywhere that contributes to your ceremony's personality.
Specialities
Do you specialise in LGBTQIA+ ceremonies?
Yes! Having served as an LGBTQIA+ staff representative for five years, I'm passionate about creating inclusive, celebratory ceremonies for the queer community. I understand the importance of ceremonies that truly honour and celebrate diverse love stories and identities.
What makes your approach different?
With my background in theatre, academia, and community arts, I bring storytelling, performance, and creativity to every ceremony. I focus on building genuine rapport (hence the company name!) so your ceremony feels like it's being led by a friend who truly understands and celebrates who you are. I love incorporating alternative themes, creative elements, and meaningful personal touches.
Can you help with venue selection?
Absolutely! I'm happy to accompany you on venue visits and can suggest locations throughout Lancashire, the Lake District, Manchester, Liverpool, and beyond. I particularly love historic venues, spaces with character, and locations that contribute to your ceremony's atmosphere.
What about ceremonies for older couples or second marriages?
I love working with couples at every stage of life! Whether you're celebrating a first marriage later in life, a second chance at love, or renewing vows after decades together, every love story deserves celebration. Age is absolutely not a relevant factor – openness to joy and creativity is what matters.