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,…
Tag: Celebrant
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…
Elopements: The Intimate, Intentional Way to Say “I Do”
Once whispered about as secretive and spontaneous, elopements have grown into a modern, meaningful way for couples to celebrate their love. No longer about running away in the dead of night, today’s elopements are beautifully crafted, deeply personal experiences that reflect a couple’s unique bond. So, what exactly is an…
Reflecting Your Uniqueness in Weddings and Funerals.
Life’s most significant moments deserve to be celebrated in a way that truly reflects who you are. Whether it’s the joy of a wedding or the heartfelt farewell of a funeral, these events are deeply personal. A Celebrant-led ceremony offers a unique opportunity to craft a service that is as…
The Vendor Vibe: How to Choose the Right Team for Your Celebrant-Led Wedding
So, you’ve decided to have a celebrant-led wedding—amazing choice! You’re planning a day that’s all about you two and your unique love story. But let’s face it: the best celebrant in the world can’t pull off a dream wedding solo. That’s where your vendors come in, and picking the right…
