In this blog we look back at a truly individual ceremony involving an autumnal colour palette, bespoke elements and of course Burt the chihuahua. Who: Theo and Oliver Where: https://www.theminories.org/ When: September 2026 1st Contact: I first met Theo and Oliver at a Wedding Open Day at The Minories in Colchester in…
Tag: elements
The Ultimate Guide to Writing Your Own Wedding Vows.
How to write wedding vows that are personal, meaningful, memorable and completely, wonderfully YOU Let’s talk about wedding vows. Those little words that can somehow feel like the biggest words you’ll ever have to write. For some couples, the idea of writing your own wedding vows sounds romantic and exciting.…
Real Wedding: Hannah and Andy
In this blog we will be looking back to a balmy summer day in a woodland setting for Hannah and Andy’s wedding. Who: Hannah and Andy Where: https://browningbros.co.uk/teybrook-orchard When: July 2026 First Contact: Unusually I had a contact from one of my cousins to say that a work colleague was getting…
The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying: Life Lessons That Shape Meaningful Ceremonies
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.…
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,…
Top 10 Most Popular Wedding Songs, Top 10 Most Popular Funeral Songs & Why Music Matters in Every Ceremony
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…
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…
The Most Romantic Ceremony Ideas for a Celebrant-Led Wedding.
When it comes to saying “I do,” nothing is more special than a ceremony that truly reflects your love story. Unlike traditional weddings, a celebrant-led ceremony allows you to create a unique and deeply personal experience, incorporating any rituals, settings, and vows you desire. Whether you dream of exchanging vows…
Meet my Supplier Chums!!! Chloe from The Copper Cacti
In this, my second interview with one of my supplier chums, I talk to Chloe Draper of The Copper Cacti. I first met Chloe at a wedding fair and loved her sense of fun, chilled out vibe and the displays she creates that are so not like the normal bouquet…
