Why I Left Hospitality Management to Become a Wedding Celebrant:

The Dream Team - July 2025 - Me at the back and L-R - Emily, Rebecca and Rachel💕

The Marriage System That’s Failing Couples: The moment I realised I was on the wrong side of the wedding industry… ⚡️

From Dream Job to Eye-Opening Realisation - Before I became an Independent Professional Celebrant, I was the Wedding Manager and part of the Senior Leadership Team at a busy hotel and country estate in Yorkshire.

I led a Dream Team of coordinators (hey girlies!!) and we lived and breathed weddings. We knew every detail — who was secretly pregnant and toasting with Nosecco, who had the strictest mother-in-law, and which songs made them sob happy tears.

I thought I had the best job in the world…

Until the moment I realised I was part of a system that was failing the very couples I cared about. 🤯

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When You Know the Couple Inside Out… And Still Hand Them Over to a Stranger

We knew our couples better than anyone. I knew Jess wanted her rescue dog in the ceremony. I knew Tom proposed with his gran’s vintage ring. I knew they met on Tinder but told their mums it was in Waitrose. 🤣

But, just before the ceremony, a registrar would arrive, turn to me and ask:

“Which one is the groom?” 🧐

And I would have to hand over the couple to complete strangers—one to run the ceremony, one to do admin.

The most meaningful part of their day was delivered by someone who didn’t know their names, their vibe, or their story.

Just a copy-and-paste, template script.

It felt wrong.

Every. Single. Time.

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The System That Says “No”

The final straw?

Watching couple after couple be told what they couldn’t do:

• “You can’t walk down the aisle to Ave Maria by Beyoncé — too religious.”

• “You can’t write your own vows — they need pre-approval.”

• “You can’t have the Lord’s Prayer, even if it means the world to your nan.”

• “You can’t exchange Varamala garlands — that’s religious content.”

I once had to orchestrate a garland exchange after the registrar left the building at an Anglo-Indian wedding. It was beautiful. Emotional. A celebration of heritage. And it shouldn’t have needed to be hidden! 😠

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🛑 Think a Registrar Ceremony Includes “The Legal Bit”? Think Again.

Even if you work in the wedding industry — this might surprise you.

There is no public register, no romantic, handwritten in ink certificates anymore.

That all went online in 2021.

So if you’re choosing a registrar-led ceremony because your family wants to witness the legal part — 🛑STOP RIGHT THERE. You need to read this. 👇🏻

Here’s what actually happens now:

• 📝 You sign an A4 sheet of paper called a marriage schedule

• 📦 The paper goes in the registrar’s bag to the next wedding, then the next, and maybe another after that.

• ⏳ They have 7 days to input your details into an online register

• 📬 Only after that can you order your marriage certificate

No register. No calligraphy. No romance. Just admin.

So if you’re under pressure to book a registrar just so “they can see the legal bit”…

Let them know: they won’t.

And that means there’s no reason to settle for:

🚫 Strangers delivering a generic script

🚫 Vows that need censoring

🚫 The 11am time slot with a 5am glam squad call

🚫 Restrictions, cultural erasure, and ceremony content policing

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From Frustrated Manager to Celebrant on a Mission

That’s when it hit me.

I was collecting these gorgeous, personal love stories… and watching them be delivered as lifeless, interchangeable ceremonies.

The registrars weren’t the villains — they were following rules.

But the system?

It was failing couples. Badly.

So I trained as an Independent Celebrant, added In-House Celebrant to my job title… And after a plot-twist, industry shocking redundancy for the Dream Team — I went full-time.✨ Celebrant Led 🧡 was born… and I’ve never looked back.

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Because Your Ceremony Deserves Better

This is your love story.

It should sound like you. Feel like you. Reflect who you are.

🧡 No strangers

🧡 No restrictions

🧡 No soulless 13-minute script

🧡 No pretending your story fits someone else’s template

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From Yorkshire to Destination Weddings — This Is What I Do Now

Whether you’re planning in Yorkshire, Lancashire, Cumbria or halfway across the world…

I’m here for: The rebels, the romantics, and the rule-breakers.

Because when you’ve seen hundreds of love stories watered down…

You don’t just walk away. You change the game.

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Ready to Tell Your Story?

If you’re planning your wedding and choosing between a registrar or celebrant…Let’s talk.

If you’re a venue and want a celebrant on your supplier list, one who totally gets your world… Let’s connect.

This isn’t just my job.

It’s my calling. 🧡

Katie xx

📍 Based in Yorkshire, Lancashire & Cumbria

✈️ Also available for UK & Destination weddings

💌 linktr.ee/celebrantled

TikTok.com/celebrantled

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Do you want to know the best kept secret in the wedding industry?

If you’re planning a wedding one of the most important decisions you'll make is when and where to get married. Most couples will book a licensed wedding venue and then be instructed to book a time slot with the local registrar.

STOP ✋

I’m going to let you into a secret…

Traditional registrars have been the go-to for many years, but the savvy couples know that they have the choice of who performs their marriage ceremony and by choosing a good wedding celebrant it will take your ceremony to another level! It is the best kept secret in the wedding industry and there are so many reasons to consider a celebrant for your special day. Read on…

A Friendly Face to Alleviate Your Nerves or Anxiety

Imagine walking down the aisle and seeing a familiar, friendly face waiting for you—a celebrant who has taken the time to get to know you and your partner. This personal touch creates a relaxed atmosphere that can significantly reduce nerves and anxiety on your big day. The feel of a warm smile and genuine support can make all the difference, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the moment and enjoy the celebration of your love with your family and friends. After all, the rings and vows are the most important part and the bit that everyone wants to see! Your family and friendly are not in the slightest bit interested in the signing of the register, that’s when they all start chatting or taking selfies, trust me I’ve seen hundreds of weddings.

Capture the Moments, Not the Restrictions

Photographers absolutely love celebrant led weddings, go ask one if you don’t believe me! We conduct the wedding ceremony as you’d expect, but weave in little personal bits about your love story which means the photographers get a little longer to capture those all important ceremony shots.

The relaxed vibe that a celebrant brings to your ceremony translates into the photographs. It’s much easier to photograph someone who is relaxed and happy walking down the aisle than it is to capture the rigid and fearful expressions of those approaching an officious-looking stranger. The result? Your photographs slay!

Photographers love working with us because we aren’t bound by the restrictions that registrars impose. Registrars often limit where photographers can stand and how the photos can be taken, particularly around the official register. With a celebrant, you still have the option to sign a certificate with your witnesses. This means your photographer can capture all the candid moments and stunning shots without any limitations, resulting in a beautiful collection of memories from your day.

Flexibility for a Relaxed Timeline

Wedding venue staff love celebrant led weddings, they see a huge difference and know that a relaxed ceremony sets the whole vibe for the day. I dedicate myself to one wedding ceremony per day, which means I won’t be annoyed with you if there’s a last minute technical hitch, or you are fashionably late. I am not rushing off to conduct multiple identical ceremonies in different locations, it’s your day, I’m there for you. This flexibility allows you to take your time, enjoy the moment, and ensure everything goes smoothly without the pressure of a strict timeline. You can also choose a time that suits your vibe, instead of being told you can have your ceremony at 11am, because the 1pm slot has already booked to someone else. Who wants a 5am start for hair and MUA?!

Choose a Celebrant That Matches Your Vibe

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a celebrant is the ability to choose someone who aligns with your personal style and vibe. Whether you're looking for someone with a fun, quirky personality or a more traditional approach, I can fit your vision. Our connection will elevate your ceremony, making it feel personal, authentic and uniquely yours.

Personalised Clothing Style

Another perk of working with a celebrant is the opportunity to select their clothing style and colors. You can’t choose your registrar, so you can’t vet their dress sense. We’ll have discussions around decor, theme, colour schemes and I’ll dress in a way that complements your wedding theme.

Separating the Legal Process from the Ceremony

Choosing a celebrant means you just separate the legal paperwork from your ceremony, have the wedding ceremony with me and do the legal paperwork in the registrars office.  It’s a really simple process with the registrar and costs around £46. This process is akin to registering a baby’s birth—nothing elaborate or ceremonial, you can save the rings and vows for your wedding ceremony. For more details on this process, feel free to check out my FAQ page, where I explain everything you need to know.

The Secret is Out!

Choosing a celebrant to officiate your wedding ceremony offers a personalised, relaxed, and memorable experience. With the added benefits of images that slay, a ceremony time that works for you and a celebrant that resonates with your style and vibe, it’s clear why so many couples are making the switch!

**What does a typical wedding timeline look like? **

A Simple Wedding Timeline for a 13:00PM Ceremony

Planning a wedding can be an exhilarating yet overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to developing the perfect timeline. Whilst reading wedding planning posts on social media, I’ve noticed people are struggling to plan their wedding day without the knowledge of how long each part takes. So here is an example schedule for a wedding taking place at 13:00PM in a hotel venue where the ceremony, wedding breakfast, and evening reception all take place, it's essential to create a smooth flow of events. Above is a straightforward timeline to guide you through your day and below are some hints and tips from someone who’s planned and delivered hundreds of successful weddings.

Pre-wedding - Hair and MUA

When it comes to choosing your bridal party, less is more. Having six bridesmaids, the bride, and two mums can create an early-morning frenzy, with hair and makeup artists arriving as early as 05:00AM. While the excitement of the day can make it hard to sleep, waking up at such an ungodly hour can lead to exhaustion by the time the evening reception rolls around.

Additionally, with a larger group, there’s potential for squabbles as each bridesmaid tries to prove she’s the closest to the bride, which can add unnecessary drama to an already busy day. Consider a smaller group to ensure a more relaxed morning and let everyone enjoy the celebrations without the stress of an overly long day and I wouldn’t recommend a ceremony start time before 12:00PM.

The Ceremony

Live music during the ceremony and drinks reception make for an electric atmosphere and then there’s the unforgettable goosebumps moment of anticipation when the first note is played. A skilled musician can manipulate the timings; if there's a technical hitch, a shy flower girl or a late arrival, they can easily repeat a verse without anyone noticing. Unlike recorded music, which can’t be manipulated, a live musician provides a level of flexibility that massively enhances the experience for both you and your guests.

Drinks Reception, Canapés, Confetti, Photographs - group shots.

During the drinks reception, having a musician is pretty essential for keeping your guests engaged while you’re busy with photos. Doubling up on drinks ensures they're not tempted to wander off to the nearest bar to watch sport on tv or check into their rooms, you don’t want to waste time looking for them for your family group shots and they will disappear if given the chance. Keeping your guests in one place is crucial, as it can feel like herding cats when trying to gather everyone for the wedding breakfast (it’s called a breakfast, even though it’s usually a three course dinner, because it’s your first married meal, it confuses lots of people!) and you don’t want the food to spoil.

Introductions

As you plan your big day, it’s important to think about how you want to be introduced into the wedding breakfast. Have a candid conversation with your partner early on if you have strong feelings about your last name or title—whether you want to take your partner's name or prefer to keep your own. The night before your wedding is not the ideal time to have a major disagreement; I've seen it lead to unnecessary stress more than once! Likewise, if you’re considering unconventional choices, like the groom taking the bride's last name, be prepared for varied reactions from family members.

The Speeches

Speeches are another critical element of your wedding timeline. Traditionally, they take place after dinner to ensure that food is served whilst it is hot and freshly cooked. However, if you have a particularly nervous speaker, consider doing speeches before the meal, try not to stagger them across the courses, it’s doesn’t work when pouring the glasses of fizz to toast the speakers and it goes flat, unless money is no object and you can fund several glasses per person.

If you opt for speeches first, be sure to set a time limit for all speakers. If each of them runs over by just five minutes, it can throw off the entire dinner service! The typical order includes the father of the bride (or a representative), followed by the groom and best man. But remember, creativity is welcome these days, with everything from rapping bridesmaids to interactive presentations on hotel conferencing screens being fair game.

The Room Turnaround

After the wedding breakfast, there’s a room turnaround period where guests can freshen up, check into their rooms, and probably more photos for you. This is when the venue staff tidy up, remove some dinner tables, set up for the buffet and the evening suppliers eg. DJ or Photo Booth arrive.

This transition time is crucial for ensuring a seamless shift from the formalities of the day to the fun of the evening reception. Your guests will welcome this down time, especially if it’s a nice day. Don’t feel obliged to fill every single moment with an experience, it’s a long day and people welcome the chance to reset, have a coffee, have a shower and put on their dancing shoes.

If you’ve found this useful make sure you follow me on social media @celebrantled and stay tuned, because I’ll be sharing lots more insider info, hints and tips with you.

**Give Flip-Flops the Chop! How to Embrace a More Sustainable Wedding**

How to Embrace a More Sustainable Wedding: Insights from a Wedding Professional.

Before I became a full time celebrant I was the manager of a very busy wedding venue and three wedding coordinators, I’ve had the joy of helping countless couples celebrate their love in beautiful ways. Each wedding tells a unique story, filled with laughter, happy tears, and unforgettable moments. However, amidst all the excitement, I’ve often thought about how we can make these celebrations kinder to our planet. With a touch of creativity and a focus on what truly matters, we can create stunning, memorable weddings that are also sustainable. So here are some tweaks you can make for a more eco-friendly wedding, along with a few things you might consider leaving behind.

Choose an Eco-Friendly Venue

One of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting your venue. Look for places that prioritise sustainability, such as those that use renewable energy.

Have an Outdoor Ceremony or Outdoor Drinks Reception

Outdoor spaces minimise the need for excessive decorations. A charming barn or a lovely garden can serve as the perfect backdrop for your love story, while also reducing your environmental impact.

Invitations: Go Digital

While traditional paper invitations have their charm, they can contribute to deforestation and waste. Instead, consider going digital! There are wonderful platforms that allow you to create beautiful, personalised invitations that match your wedding theme. Not only is this eco-friendly, but it also saves on printing and postage costs.

Mindful Flowers

Flowers can truly elevate a wedding, but the floral industry can take a toll on the environment. Opt for in-season, locally sourced blooms to minimise transportation emissions and support local growers. Not only will your wedding flowers look stunning, but you’ll also be making a positive impact on your community.

Ditch the Bathroom Freshen Up Baskets

While it’s lovely to want your guests to feel pampered, bathroom baskets filled with extra hairspray, breath freshener, dry shampoo, toothpicks, fresh wipes and gel insoles aren’t necessary for one day and I’ve confiscated way too many boxes of tempting pink tablets from little unsupervised hands over the years, putting medication in there is an absolute no, if you have younger guests.

Give Flip-Flops the Chop!

Flip-Flops are seen as a must have, but in reality they are harder to dance in than bare feet and most of the basket will go back home with you, where you’ll have a family supply for life!

Shoe Heel Protectors

If you’re planning an outdoor wedding or drinks reception, consider advising your guests to wear block heels instead of stilettos. This way you won’t need to buy multiple size heel protectors for each guest, they come in three different heel heights/widths, so at least two sets end up in the bin.

Sustainable Outfits

Your wedding dress and bridal party attire can create a significant amount of waste. Instead of purchasing new outfits that may only be worn once, consider buying second-hand or perhaps there’s a treasured dress in a loft or wardrobe somewhere that you could bring back to life.

Ditch the Favours

Let’s be honest here - the majority of wedding favours get thrown away and nobody ever misses something that’s not there! In the busy weeks before your wedding you lovingly fill and label tiny bottles with spirits, in reality people are wary of the unknown contents. The sticky lids are always a bit suspect and guests won’t risk putting them in their handbags or pockets.to take away.

Personalised fondant iced biscuits look pretty, but they are always soft, always! …and does a family of four really need 4 metal key shaped bottle openers?

Focus on What Truly Matters

Planning a sustainable wedding may doesn’t need to be a daunting task, a few small, thoughtful changes can lead to a meaningful impact. I’ve seen firsthand how the beauty of simplicity can shine through. The connection between the couple is what makes a wedding truly magical. The electric moment when the musician begins to play and everyone stands in anticipation, your eyes meet across the aisle and you are pulled together like magnets, genuine heartfelt vows and the way you look into one another’s souls create goosebumps that far outshine any panic-bought plastic fillers. With less clutter and more focus on what matters, you can create a celebration that honours both your love and the environment.

So here’s to a beautiful, sustainable future—one wedding at a time!

** Gen Z Wedding Planning : Rebels With A Cause And Why They Need A Celebrant **

As the world evolves, so does the way we approach significant milestones, particularly weddings. Enter Generation Z, a cohort known for its boldness, authenticity, and commitment to social change. Often labeled as "rebels with a cause," Gen Z is reshaping traditional norms, and this includes how they envision their wedding ceremonies.

The Rebel Spirit of Gen Z

Gen Z has grown up in a world marked by rapid change and global challenges, from climate change activism to social justice movements. This generation is characterised by its desire to stand up for their beliefs, challenge societal expectations, and create a meaningful impact. They prioritise authenticity and personal expression, which translates into their wedding planning.

Unlike previous generations, who might have adhered to conventional wedding formats, Gen Zers seek to infuse their personalities, values, and unique stories into their ceremonies. They are not afraid to remove the traditional elements that don’t resonate with them, opting instead for celebrations that reflect their identities and beliefs.

Why a Celebrant is Essential

This is where the role of a celebrant becomes crucial. A celebrant is not just a person who officiates a wedding; they are storytellers, advocates, and visionaries who help couples craft a ceremony that resonates with their values and aspirations.  Here are a few reasons why Gen Z couples should be hiring a celebrant for their wedding:

**Personalisation**: Celebrants work closely with couples to understand their unique love story, values, and vision for their wedding. This collaboration allows for a highly personalised ceremony that reflects who they are as a couple, rather than a ‘one size’ approach from the registrar.

**Flexibility**: Traditional weddings often come with rigid structures and expectations. Celebrants can break away from these norms, offering flexibility in how the ceremony is structured, what rituals are included, and how the overall tone is set. This is especially appealing to Gen Zers who want to create an experience that feels authentic and true to themselves.

**Inclusivity**: Gen Z is the most diverse generation yet, and they value inclusivity in all aspects of life. A celebrant can help ensure that the ceremony is respectful and inclusive of different cultures, identities, and beliefs, making everyone feel welcome and celebrated.

**Meaningful Rituals**: Celebrants can incorporate meaningful rituals that resonate with the couple’s values, whether it’s a unity ceremony that reflects their commitment to a particular lifestyle or a moment of reflection on social issues important to them. Many Gen Z couples are opting for modern day rituals during their ceremony, such as exchanging permanent jewellery or having matching tattoos, as a way to symbolise their commitment in a unique and personal way. These contemporary traditions not only enhance the ceremony but also create lasting memories.

**Support for the Couple**: Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and having a celebrant can alleviate some of that stress. Celebrants are experienced in guiding couples through the ceremony creation and delivery process, ensuring that their vision is realised while providing support and expertise. The celebrant will be a friendly, familiar face and not a stranger to the couple, alleviating wedding nerves and anxiety, resulting in amazing images and content for socials.

Gen Z is indeed a generation of rebels with a cause, and their approach to wedding planning is a testament to their desire for authenticity and meaningful experiences. By enlisting the help of a celebrant, they can create a ceremony that not only celebrates their union but also reflects their values and individuality. In a world where traditional norms are constantly being challenged, this generation is leading the way, showing us that love can be expressed in countless beautiful and unique ways. Whether through modern rituals like permanent jewellery or matching tattoos, Gen Z is redefining what it means to celebrate love and I personally love working with them!

**The Ultimate Guide to Stress-Free Outdoor Weddings: Why You Need a Celebrant!**

Hello, lovely couples! It’s Katie from Celebrant Led, and I’m here to share some insights about planning outdoor weddings. While the allure of a picturesque garden or beach ceremony is undeniable, there are unique challenges that come with saying “I do” under the open sky.

Let’s face it: outdoor weddings can sometimes feel like herding cats! The logistics involved in setting up decor, managing inclement weather, and corralling guests away from the bar can be a real test of patience. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, one crucial tip is to separate the legalities from the ceremony itself. You’ll want to book a celebrant for your ceremony to ensure everything flows smoothly and beautifully.

Why is this so important? Registrars typically operate on tight schedules, especially during the busy summer months. They might be tasked with officiating up to four weddings in one day, often across a large geographical area. This leaves little room for flexibility. If you’re fashionably late, you could risk missing out on meaningful parts of your ceremony.

I’ve witnessed this firsthand as a former wedding venue and team manager. I remember one bride who was late due to car issues and the size of her stunning dress. The outdoor site was just a five-minute drive away, but with the unexpected delays, we found ourselves racing against the clock. The registrar was left waiting in the sun, and when the bride finally arrived, the ceremony was rushed. Important readings were cut, and the rings were almost snatched from the best man’s hand in a hurry to exchange vows before a hurried “you may now kiss the bride.” The entire experience lasted just 13 minutes—not quite the beautiful moment you envision for your special day.

And let’s talk about the weather. If a cloud threatens to rain, registrars often have no choice but to pull couples inside the nearest shelter—even if that’s a car—leading to a disjointed and rushed experience, nothing like you imagined. Unlike celebrants, registrars have to protect the legal documents written in ink, moving from one venue to the next under strict timelines.

Additionally, when it comes to alcohol, registrars have strict regulations. If there’s alcohol in sight during the ceremony, they may pause the wedding for up to an hour to allow it to subside, which could be a nightmare if they have another wedding planned immediately afterward. You may want a relaxed vibe or a classy pre-ceremony champagne reception on the lawn or beach—this is where a celebrant shines!

This is why I urge you to book a celebrant who dedicates their time to getting to know you and your story. Unlike registrars, I will only officiate one wedding per day, allowing us to adapt and adjust if unexpected issues arise—be it an international traveling latecomer, a bride whose corset-back dress needs to be completely restrung to avoid an embarrassing exposure, or a groom who discovers he has two left shoes minutes before the ceremony! Trust me, I’ve seen it all, and I’m here to ensure your day is everything you’ve dreamed of. This is one of the benefits of choosing a former professional wedding manager as your celebrant.

In conclusion, for a relaxed, heartfelt ceremony surrounded by your loved ones, choose a celebrant who will give you the attention and time you deserve. Let’s create the magical outdoor wedding you’ve been dreaming of, without the stress and rush. Your vows deserve to be celebrated in the way you’ve always envisioned—beautifully and authentically, witnessed by all your nearest and dearest friends and family.

Happy wedding planning!

**Congratulations you’re getting married! Wondering where to start with the wedding planning?**

You’ve just got engaged! What should you book first? Where to start?

The moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived — someone popped the question, and you said yes! Now the excitement of planning your dream wedding begins, a day you may have thought about for years. But before diving into the details, it’s essential to sit down with your partner to establish your budget and timeline, do you want to get married in Summer, or off season when it’s usually cheaper? It used to be tradition to get married on Saturdays, but the covid backlog changed that and couples get married on any day now and you may pick up a Monday - Thursday bargain.

Once that’s set, here are the first six things in my opinion as a former wedding venue manager that you should book to kick-start your wedding planning adventure!

One top tip - don’t choose New Years Day, it sounds romantic with a new year to have your new start together as a married couple, but in reality your guests turn up hungover and asking around for painkillers, trust me it’s not a vibe handing out hangover kits pre ceremony!

1. The Wedding Venue

This is the biggie! Your wedding venue sets the date for your entire celebration. But then you have to decide what kind of a celebration you want.

Are you dreaming of a festival vibe with a teepee adorned with fairy lights, or would you prefer the elegance of a stately home, a luxury hotel venue or a cozy village hall?

Maybe you’re a nature lover and envision an outdoor wedding in the summer, overlooking a serene lake, or perhaps you’re lucky enough to have a relative with a fabulous garden to host your special day.

For those of you with a sense of adventure, why not consider a destination wedding on a beach, where you can say “I do” barefoot in the sand?

Or if you and your partner are thrill-seekers, imagine an exhilarating wedding abseiling off a cliff (my friends at Lost Earth Adventures could assist with this) or an adventurous ceremony being winched down to the foot of Gaping Gill!

And let’s not forget about transportation as locations for your ceremony, you could marry on a vintage steam train, or sailing down the canal on a barge? The possibilities are endless!

2. Time Off Work

You’d be surprised how many couples forget to set reminders to book their annual leave! Make sure you take the time off as soon as possible to enjoy the lead-up to your big day. And don't forget to tell family and friends to save the date — they’ll want to mark it on their calendars!

3. Me!

The sooner you book, the sooner I can get to know you both and begin to craft your story. www.celebrantled.com

4. Legal Registration

Book a simple 2+2 legal registration at your local Register Office to take care of the legal side of things. This step is crucial to ensure everything is official, save your personal vows and the exchanging of wedding rings for your ceremony in front of loved ones.

5. Wedding Insurance

This might seem like an afterthought, but trust me, wedding insurance is a must-have! You wouldn’t believe the amount of panicked calls I’ve received from brides dealing with unexpected mishaps — everything from broken bones to last-minute emergencies with poorly parents. Protecting your investment will give you peace of mind leading up to the big day.

6. Photographer

Finally, securing a talented photographer is essential. The best photographers get booked up quickly, so don’t leave this one to the last minute! I used to manage a wedding team and have a wealth of contacts in the industry. If you need recommendations, just let me know! Some of my personal favorites include Hayley Baxter, Lisa Kershaw, and Vivienne Edge — each of whom captures the magic of weddings beautifully.

With these six essentials in place, you’ll be well on your way to planning the wedding of your dreams. 🍾 🥂 Let’s toast to love, laughter, and happily ever after!

**Why photographers 🧡 celebrant led weddings!**

As a professional wedding celebrant and the former manager of a destination venue wedding team, along with my team of wedding coordinators I’ve planned and delivered hundreds of ceremonies and I can wholeheartedly say that photographers, videographers and content creators adore celebrant-led weddings!

One of the biggest challenges for photographers on a wedding day is navigating the restrictions often imposed by registrars and vicars. Typically, they end up limited in their movement and where they can capture those precious moments. However, with a celebrant-led wedding, the atmosphere is entirely different. Celebrants tend to be more flexible, collaborating with photographers and allowing them to roam freely and capture the most authentic and beautiful images of the day. Plus, the emotional depth of the ceremony shines through. A good celebrant has built a great relationship with the couple and is able to elicit genuine emotional reactions of laughter, tears and joy from the couple and their guests, resulting in stunning images and video content filled with emotion.

Don’t just take my word for it, I asked the lovely Hayley Baxter, ‘Yorkshire & North East Wedding Photographer of the Year 2024’ for her opinion and she said:

“I absolutely love celebrant led ceremonies, they are so much more personal to a couples day. It’s lovely for guests (and us suppliers!) to find out more about the couples story. Often interlaced with humour and happy tears, celebrant ceremonies really do bring an extra dimension to a wedding day.”

There are so many benefits to having a celebrant, another is the freedom it brings to your ceremony location. You’re not confined to a stuffy corporate room; instead, you can tie the knot in your garden, atop a stunning mountain, beside a breathtaking waterfall, barefoot on a beach, on a boat or a steam train. You can marry at twilight under the stars, or have a ceremony at dawn with the sunrise, the possibilities are endless, allowing couples to choose a time and a meaningful place that resonates with their love story, their hobbies or where they got engaged.

I love when couples personalise their ceremonies, making them thoughtful and unique. After all, the day is about celebrating your love! Choosing the right officiant is crucial to creating a meaningful experience. I’ve sat through way too many ‘one size fits all’ ceremonies, they feel so impersonal, the registrar are strangers that are meet the couple a few minutes before the ceremony and it’s disheartening to see the level of anxiety and fear that this brings to a previously relaxed bride or groom. Thats not the way your special day should begin!

A fabulous celebrant crafts a fun, personal ceremony that truly reflects the couple and their love story. They invest time in getting to know you and creating a bespoke experience that involves your guests from the get-go. You could have surprise ring bearers, doggy ring bearers, dancing down the aisle, surprise witnesses, comedy flower men, sing-alongs, a touching ring warming ceremony, or even celebratory shots! Celebrants know how to bring the party, making the entire experience unforgettable and the photographers, videographers and content creators capture all of this magic!

Still happy to have a basic ‘one size fits all’ ceremony, or should we chat?