Claire Millar Photography
The best and most memorable ceremonies are so because of the folks at the centre.
That is to say, whilst I will be giving everything to your ceremony, it's not actually about me!
If I've done my job well (I'm told I do!) then what will be remembered will be your stories and how your ceremony made you feel.
Having said that, it is important you feel comfortable with whomever you choose.
If you'd like to arrange to have a chat to see how we fit, then please...
I’ll let you into a secret…
Growing up, I loved to write stories, often involving people I knew, sometimes inserting them into mystical worlds and adventures. I used to dream that one day I would become a writer.
Mind you, looking back on my younger childhood musings, there was also a point I wanted to be a dancer, or a gymnast. That I'd never even stepped foot in a gymnastics class apparently didn't matter!
I discovered I was good at listening to others and helping them to express themselves and for the last 20 years that has been where my passion has settled: in supportive, listening roles, including as a qualified counsellor.
I've worked with children, young people and adults with a variety of life experiences. This has further deepened my belief in the fundamental importance of love, acceptance, connection and the freedom to live authentically. And, as it turns out, the skills and qualities I've developed - listening, empathy, warmth and genuine interest in others - align well with celebrancy too!
It was after attending a good friend’s mum’s funeral that I began to think about using these skills in a new way. Her funeral service was like no other I’d been to and I was so surprised to realise that the celebrant had not known her. She captured her essence beautifully and conducted a ceremony that was sad, and yet also uplifting and comforting, with a few chuckles which for this wonderful, loved woman, was just right.
A few months passed and I met and then trained with Susan and Gerrie Douglas-Scott who a couple if years later founded Celebrate People. I was delighted and honoured to become one of the first celebrants welcomed into this supportive and inspiring community.
It's occurred to me that, in the end, I became a writer, of sorts, after all. I've ended up in this incredible, life-affirming role; a combination of listening, writing, story telling, of co-creating something special and authentic with couples and families through every point of life. I consider myself to be very fortunate to be here!
I love being a celebrant!
It's the moments of connection with people that I value the most. There is nothing as satisfying or that fills my heart more than to help to bring your words, values and vision together.
For you to feel heard, seen, understood and celebrated for who you are and to have a ceremony that reflects this. In turn, this is also a beautiful and fulfilling part of upholding the principles and beliefs core to my own life.
A bit more about me
empathic *compassionate * thoughtful * sincere * warm * creative * colourful
LOVES dogs, crisp autumn days, forests, a touch of whimsy, punk rock, beaches, adventures, coffee and dinosaurs.
