As an independent celebrant, I have the honour of standing with people at some of life’s most significant thresholds. Weddings, naming ceremonies, renewal of vows and celebration of life services all share one thing in common. They pause time. They invite reflection. They ask us to consider what truly matters.…
Tag: Celebrant
Budget-Friendly Wedding Planning Tips
Beautiful Celebrations Without the Hefty Price Tag Planning your dream wedding does not have to come with a heart-stopping price tag. With a little creativity, thoughtful planning and the right support, you can create a ceremony and celebration that feels deeply personal, meaningful and memorable without blowing the budget. As…
You’re Engaged! Now What? Fun & Laid-Back Next Steps for Your Wedding Journey
Congratulations! You’ve just said “yes,” and now you’re floating on cloud nine, basking in that engagement glow. While the temptation to dive headfirst into wedding planning is strong, take a moment to soak it all in. Planning your wedding should feel exciting and fun, not like a never-ending checklist. If…
A Year of Growth, Gratitude and Gorgeous Ceremonies: What Shelley Bell Celebrant Learned & Achieved in 2025
As 2025 comes to a close, I’ve found myself reflecting on what has been one of the most fulfilling, transformative, and heart-stretching years of my celebrancy journey. Every ceremony I’ve crafted—whether a wedding, naming, renewal of vows, funeral or memorial—has brought me something new to learn, someone new to love,…
Honouring Our Loved Ones at Christmas and Special Life Events
A Gentle Guide by Shelley Bell Celebrant Christmas is often described as the most wonderful time of the year, but for many of us, it can also be one of the most emotional. As the lights twinkle and families gather, we may feel the presence — and the absence —…
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…
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…
