Is booking a wedding celebrant worth it? Should we just ask a friend?
J & D are celebrated by all their loved ones as they walk back down the aisle.
I had a really interesting chat with a couple at a Wedding Fair recently. They were weighing up whether to book a trained Wedding Celebrant like me, or to ask their friend to lead their ceremony.
Unsurprisingly, I recommended booking a professional wedding celebrant, chatting to them about how a celebrant does more before, during, and after your ceremony than simply public speaking on the day. I thought I'd share my answer, in more detail, here. Just in case you've been wondering the same…
Have you been wondering if booking a celebrant is worth it?
It makes sense that you might first think of asking a friend to lead your ceremony. After all, who better than someone you already know and love to stand beside you on one of the most emotional, joy-filled days of your life?
Maybe you’re nervous about being the centre of attention and want someone reassuring to gently guide you through.
Perhaps you have a gloriously complex family and don’t want to worry about names being muddled, or about wrangling that one uncle before things begin.
Maybe you know your child has complex needs, and will squeal with delight in the middle of your vows, and you want someone who’ll embrace it as part of the story.
All perfectly understandable. You want someone who “gets it”, who knows you, your story, your quirks. The great thing is that’s exactly what I do as your celebrant, while also bringing years of experience and accredited training.
A good Wedding Celebrant will have spent time getting to know you, bringing friendly warmth alongside professional experience and understanding.
To deliberately misquote Claudia Winkleman, I do more on the day than 'read out loud’. Celebrants like me:
Suggest meaningful ideas for readings, rituals and special moments that reflect your values while shaping your ceremony.
Expertly organise logistical aspects of your ceremony space, so you don't have to think of them.
Gently choreograph each part of the ceremony so you feel comfortable and confident.
Liaise with your suppliers (and recommend brilliant ones when you’re stuck).
Create a calm yet expectant, warm and inclusive atmosphere so everyone feels welcome.
Handle any last-minute changes or worries!
Because I’ve guided many ceremonies before, I’m ready for anything: runaway ring-bearers, microphone mishaps, emotional pauses, even sudden weather shifts.
You don’t have to choose between a familiar, friendly face and a professional, experienced celebrant!
Instead of choosing between the warmth of a friend and the reassurance of an experienced professional, you get both in one. You get a celebrant who gives you the familiarity and warmth of a friend, who also brings the calm confidence of someone who’s seen it all before!
Making sure your ceremony is seamless, joyful, and completely you.
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