Music is the heartbeat of any ceremony. Whether it’s a wedding overflowing with joy, a funeral filled with reflection and love, or any milestone moment in between, the right song speaks directly to the soul. As an independent celebrant, Shelley Bell Celebrant knows just how transformative music can be—it grounds…
Category: celebrant skills
Real Wedding – Zoe and James
In this look back at one of 2025’s most colourful weddings we can see how little pops of colour can make such a difference to a neutral palette and how your furry family can be a part of your celebrant led ceremony. Where: The Boundary at Garons Park, Southend, SS2…
Real Wedding – Melissa and Daniel
In this month’s Real Wedding Blog we meet Melissa and Daniel, a couple who took a while to get to their wedding date, “this was not eyes locking across a crowded room, love at first sight. More a slow burner or to be more accurate a steady smoulder.” Where: Chalkney…
A Vegan Wedding in Essex: Compassion, Style & Celebration
“A way of living that seeks to exclude as far as possible and practicable any exploitation or cruelty towards animals.” — Lisa Flahant That beautiful quote from Lisa Flahant captures exactly why more couples are choosing a vegan wedding — not just as a style choice, but as an expression…
Top 10 Personalised Wedding Ceremony Ideas You’ll Love in 2025/26
Discover the top 10 personalised wedding ceremony ideas for 2025. From handfasting to personal vows, Shelley Bell Celebrant shares unique ways to make your big day truly yours. Why Personalisation Matters in Weddings Your wedding ceremony should be more than just words — it should reflect you. More and more…
Renewing Your Vows: A Beautiful Celebration of Love
If you’re considering a vow renewal ceremony, you’re not alone. More and more couples are choosing to celebrate their lasting love by renewing their vows—whether after 5 years or 50. It’s a meaningful, romantic way to reaffirm your commitment and reflect on your journey together. In this post, we’ll explore:…
How to Write the Most Fabulous Wedding Speech Ever!!
Wedding speeches are like champagne—bubbly, heartfelt, and best when not overdone. But crafting the perfect one? That’s a cocktail of creativity, timing, a sprinkle of humour, and just the right amount of sentiment. Whether you’re the best friend, sibling, parent, or even a dog-sitter with a mic, here’s your ultimate…
Why Breaking the Traditional Wedding Rules Might Be the Best Thing You Ever Do.
Why Breaking the Traditional Wedding Rules Might Be the Best Thing You Ever Do Weddings are a celebration of love, not a checklist. And while tradition has its place, more and more couples are realising that the most memorable and magical weddings are the ones where the rulebook gets tossed…
You Don’t Have to Be Buried in a Box – and Other Funeral Myths
When most people think of a funeral, they picture a casket, a cemetery, and a somber service in a crematorium chapel or church. But that’s only one version of a farewell. The truth is, funerals are as diverse as the people they honour. Whether shaped by cultural heritage, spiritual beliefs,…
Why I started my own Bereavement Group…
In this blog, I outline the reasons why I have decided to start my own bereavement friendship and support group. What’s the point? For years I have always wondered about what happens to people once I have conducted a funeral for their people. To the old folks who have…
