Frequently Asked Questions
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How does it work?
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It can be daunting reaching out to a perfect stranger but that’s why I offer a no-obligation zoom call or phone chat to “break the ice”.
This allows both parties a chance to get to know each other a little and decide if we “click”.
Couples want to feel a connection with their celebrant and that doesn’t always happen, but that’s life.
I send a follow up email with next steps, a contract and deposit information which you complete IF you choose me.
A signed contract and 25% deposit secures me for your wedding day. I only do one wedding per day.
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This is the nice bit. Fun for you to do together on a “date night” and also a privilege for me to read your story.
About a month prior to a face-to-face planning meeting , I’ll ask you both to fill out a questionnaire independently, telling me all about your relationship, how you met, what you love about each other and why you’re getting married. This gives me a great insight into who you are as individuals and as a couple and helps me set the tone for your ceremony as well as tell your story.
PLANNING MEETING - we sit down together and decide on the structure for your ceremony. Making sure it’s exactly what you want.
Don’t worry, I will guide you through this will lots of ideas for how to make your ceremony unforgettable.
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Every couple is different, and every celebrant is too.
Working with me on your script and your wishes for the ceremony will be stress-free.
From the moment I’m signed up to be your celebrant you can contact me anytime for help and guidance. Via email, what’s app or a phone call.
I’m always on hand to help make sure you’re fully prepared for the big day.
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About 6 weeks before your ceremony I will send a draft copy of the script for your review and approval. You can request as many amendments as you like up to one week before the event, allowing me time to make finishing touches.
ON THE DAY - I’ll be at the venue at least one hour before the ceremony, to do final checks and make sure everyone is happy. I’ve been known to help calm a few nerves too.
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After the ceremony I will provide you with a keepsake presentation copy of your script. And with your permission I kindly request the use of select photos from your wedding on my social platforms.
And should you be satisfied with my service, a review on my Google page would be very much appreciated.
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As a Humanist celebrant my ceremonies are not legally binding. Although Humanists UK are campaigning to change that so that ceremonies in England and Wales will be legally binding. In line with the current rules in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The government have promised an overhaul of the marriage laws in the not too distant future.
Updates will appear here.
If you can’t find the answers to your questions here or on any other page on my website, get in touch and I can walk you through everything step by step.
What does it cost?
It’s important to be open and honest when it comes to pricing. I want my couples to be able to budget for the ceremony costs and so there are no hidden surprises or added extras.
Like my ceremonies every couple is unique and so I offer two different packages to choose from The Prime Time Ceremony package or The Simply Yours Ceremony package. And if do you want something slightly different, then I’m happy to create a bespoke quote.
The Prime Time Ceremony
This is perfect for couples who want a personalised, meaningful and unforgettable ceremony. This is the complete package.
Best for weekend weddings and bank holidays. (Thurs to Sunday)
Introductory call (free of charge)
Follow up email with details of the timeline for the preparation of your perfect ceremony.
Couples questionnaires - to be completed separately or together.
Getting together planning meeting - a relaxed chat over coffee or brunch at a mutually agreed convenient location.
Getting creative - advice and ideas on how to produce the ceremony that works for you. Including guidance on writing personalised vows.
Unlimited script edits - fine tuning of the scripts via email or calls until you’re 100% happy.
Rehearsal - (over zoom) or in person (at a small additional charge) if requested.
Professional celebrant delivery - Arrival 1 hour before ceremony - on the day liaising with suppliers, conducting the ceremony and calming the nerves.
Presentation script - delivery of a presentation script, copy of vows and a Humanist Wedding certificate (if requested)
£950
The Simply Yours Ceremony
This is perfect for couples who are planning a vow renewal, an elopement or a smaller intimate gathering.
Best for midweek weddings (Mon to Wed)
Introductory call (free of charge)
Follow up email with details of the timeline for the preparation of your perfect ceremony.
Shorter couples questionnaires - to be completed separately or together.
Online planning meeting - to go over the plans in detail. Including advice on writing personalised vows.
Shorter format script - allowing for small number of changes
Professional celebrant delivery - Arrival 30 mins before the ceremony. Conducting the ceremony and calming the nerves.
Presentation script - delivery of a presentation script, copy of vows and a Humanist Wedding certificate (if requested)
£750
There are no hidden costs, but I do charge extra for the following:
Both packages include the cost of my travel expenses to venues or locations within an hours drive or up to 35 miles away from Alderley Edge, Cheshire.
If your location or venue is further afield, travel expenses and overnight accommodation costs will be added to the package total. This includes the room charge, plus reasonable meal expenses for the night before.
For any long distance UK weddings (over 150 miles) or overseas destinations, a bespoke quote can be provided. And please bear in mind, overseas weddings will require a minimum of 3 days of my time (travel the day before and the day after the ceremony).