How long have you been a celebrant for?
I have been a celebrant for eight years.
Why did you become a celebrant?
We engaged a celebrant for our wedding many, years ago and was impressed with how much more personal the ceremony was, compared to a church wedding. At the time I thought “one day I would love to do this mahi.”
What involvement do you have or had with CANZ at a branch or national level?
I have been on committee for our Manawatū – Whānganui branch for around four years and I am currently chairperson.
What ceremonies do you perform?
I officiate marriage and funeral ceremonies, also registry ceremonies.
What do you enjoy about being a celebrant?
I love the excitement of meeting the couples/families and fulfilling their wishes, as I create for them a ceremony of celebration.
What are some of the hardest parts of being a celebrant?
Agonising over the drafts of a ceremony, not knowing, but hoping that I have succeeded in capturing the couple/family expectation.
What was the most memorable ceremony you have performed?
Oh wow! That’s a hard one, so many memorable ceremonies. I was very privileged to participate in a Sikh wedding ceremony, so steeped in tradition and so colourful.
What would be your typical day as a celebrant?
My typical day as a celebrant is to ensure I am in the best possible emotional state. I read my ceremonies many times and always have the participant forefront in my thoughts.
What advice do you have for someone new to the industry?
My advice to anyone thinking of becoming a celebrant is to have a professional body such as CANZ behind them all the way, ensure they have good training and if possible engage with a mentor locally.
How do you like to relax?
My husband and I, with our fur-baby Bella, love caravanning. We try to get away as often as we can.
