Why I Became A Celebrant?

By Theresa Donnelly – Celebrant

I’ve always loved an event. I love an occasion and a celebration especially when it’s a tradition that’s developed with time. I’m fascinated with how age-old traditions are tailored with the influence of time, culture and personal preference to create not just the day intended but a memory that’s treasured forever.

I’ve worked as a Funeral Celebrant for some years now, and I absolutely love it, it’s been my dream for as long as I can remember and to be able to help families at the worst of times is an honour and a privilege, which I’m so thankful for every day. Families very often tell you stories of their loved ones and it’s amazing to get to know someone so well, who you will never meet. I realised after sometime that if I loved hearing these stories at the end, how wonderful it would be to hear them during the earlier chapters. And how incredible it would be to help to tell them. Becoming a Celebrant has given me the opportunity to do just that, and so much more. I did my research and there truly are so many companies offering courses, some that you can do from home and others with residential options. I trained with The Blackford Centre from home and completed my course over nine months, my tutor was amazing and she was actually one of the first people I emailed when I booked my first Wedding (which was the most fabulous feeling). It really is a job that gives you the most spectacular view on life.

I’m extremely inquisitive and as soon as I receive an enquiry from a couple, I’m instantly trying to figure it all out. Why have they chosen a Celebrant? What is their story? What will the Wedding be like? And I’m pleased to report I’m nearly always correct! The first meeting with couples is always nerve wracking, whether it’s on the phone or in person. However, I’ve started to learn, it’s not just me that’s nervous, planning a big life event is a massive task. Even those who want to keep it simple and low key they still want everything to be perfect, and having a celebrant-led ceremony allows people to create their own perfect. One that cannot be compared to others and which stands alone as an incredible occasion which everyone who was lucky enough to be there for and will remember forever. Getting to know a couple is so much fun, I love to have coffee/cake and hear all about their story so far, their most special moments and their dreams for the future. As a Celebrant you aren’t just there to write and deliver a ceremony, you are there to ease their worries, help with the planning of the day and when you inevitably bring on the tears whether happy or sad, you’re on hand with a tissue.

I’ve always wanted to do something for myself and have a side hustle. I never imagined I could actually be that side hustle, and don’t get me wrong, it’s hard work. But that feeling when you step back and the couple have their first kiss is priceless. You’ve been a crucially instrumental part of their day, going on the journey with them and when they walk back down the aisle together, hand in hand, ready to embark on their next adventure, it’s simply wonderful. And the best part….you’re going to get to do it all again with a different couple, with a different story but always with a happily ever after.

Theresa Donnelly & Reign

At bookacelebrant.co.uk we are always looking to build our Celebrant listings, so if you are a Celebrant or looking to Become A Celebrant, get in touch today as we would love to help you!