The questions couples most often ask…..
Q: How did you become a celebrant?
A: My path here has been anything but ordinary. My first role after university was with a famous TV magician in the UK, where I learnt how to create events with style, theatre and presence. That experience opened the door to a career curating extraordinary occasions around the world — from intimate private gatherings and Royal occasions to international sports ceremonies that made headlines. Through it all, I came to realise that what truly matters are the human moments: the emotion in a father’s hug, the joy of shared laughter, the stories that bind us together. Becoming a celebrant felt like a natural step — bringing together everything I’ve learnt to create ceremonies with authenticity, warmth and style. It’s the best feeling to be part of a couple’s journey — an honour I hold dearly.
Q: What do we need to do legally at a registry office?
A: In England and Wales, the legal part must be done with a registrar — but it’s quick and simple. You each say a short, 32-word declaration in front of two witnesses, sign the register, and you’re legally married. It usually takes ten minutes and costs from about £60.
I’ve done this myself, so I can talk you through exactly how it works. Many couples treat it as a formality — jeans, coffee afterwards — and then save the real vows, rings, and celebrations for the ceremony with me. That way, your guests only see the day that truly tells your story.
Q: So why not just have a registrar at the wedding?
A: A registrar has to follow a set script. It’s short, functional, and you’ll probably meet them for the first time on the day. With me, there’s no template. I spend time with you, learn your story, your values, and your quirks — and from there I craft something personal, elegant, and true. I also become part of your wedding team, working alongside your planner, photographer, and musicians to ensure the ceremony flows seamlessly.
Q: Where can we hold a celebrant-led ceremony?
A: Anywhere. From private gardens in the Cotswolds to rooftops in the city, lakesides in Europe or a clifftop in Santorini — even the timeless elegance of The Savoy in London — the choice is yours. I’ll craft the ceremony to feel effortless, true to you, and at home in its setting.
Q: Are you a Humanist celebrant?
A: No — I’m an independent celebrant. That means I’m free to include whatever matters most to you: religious readings, blessings, cultural rituals — or none at all. I particularly love multi-faith weddings, where different traditions can be woven together so everyone feels included. In the past, I’ve incorporated Buddhist readings, Jewish prayers, and even elements from a Russian Orthodox service.
Q: Do you travel for weddings?
A: Absolutely. I’m based between Oxfordshire and London, but I regularly work overseas. My background in global events has taken me across the USA, Canada, France, Brazil, China, Japan, Taiwan and beyond — curating occasions in some of the world’s most extraordinary settings, from grand hotels to lakesides and private residences. I also lived in Switzerland for ten years, so ski-slope vows, lakeside gatherings, or mountain chalets feel second nature. For destination weddings, I bring not only experience but a trusted network of international contacts — planners, venues, and hotels — so wherever you choose to marry, you’ll be in safe hands.
For more information visit my Commissions page.
Q: How would you describe your style as a celebrant?
A: Polished but never stuffy. As a former West End actor and singer, I bring presence, voice, and timing — always with warmth and ease. Couples often say I strike the balance between gravitas and lightness: confident when needed, relaxed when it matters. My style adapts to the setting — from chic Provençal châteaux to New York lofts and Berlin nightclubs. Whether black tie or barefoot, I reflect the atmosphere you want to create, with a sense of occasion that feels unmistakably yours.
Q: How long does a ceremony last?
A: Most ceremonies tend to flow naturally at around thirty minutes — long enough to feel meaningful, unhurried, and complete. That said, there’s no stopwatch. Together, we’ll shape something that feels right for you — whether that means a touch shorter, or lingering a little longer to honour the moments that matter most.
Q: Will you help us write our vows?
A: Absolutely, if you’d like me to. Some couples want to write every word themselves, others prefer gentle guidance. I’ll help you find language that sounds like your voice — heartfelt, authentic, and never something lifted from ChatGPT.
Q: Are you comfortable with all kinds of couples and traditions?
A: Absolutely. I’ve worked across cultures, countries, and communities — and what matters most to me is celebrating love in all its forms. Whether your vision is rooted in tradition, pared-back and modern, or somewhere in between, I’ll shape something that feels authentic to you.
Q: Do you include cultural or symbolic traditions?
A: Yes. Symbolic rituals can add a beautiful layer to your ceremony — handfasting, a unity candle, a South Asian garland exchange, a ring blessing, or something entirely bespoke. When we speak, I can explain different traditions and we can explore what feels most exciting for you — that’s the beauty of a wedding with me.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: Then it becomes part of the story. I’ll work with your planner and venue to keep everything seamless — sometimes wet weather makes a ceremony even more unforgettable.
Q: Do you officiate LGBTQ+ weddings?
A: Always. Love is love.
Q: We want to do something a bit different for our ceremony but don’t really know what – can you help?
A: Absolutely. My role is to inspire you and shape something that feels authentic to you. I’m brimming with ideas – from subtle, unexpected touches to bold creative moments – and together we’ll find the approach that feels right. My goal is always the same: a ceremony that’s personal, meaningful, and uniquely yours.
Q: Do you attend rehearsals?
A: Yes, I’m very happy to — and I actually enjoy them if schedules allow. A rehearsal the day before often brings calm and confidence, especially for families or wedding parties who aren’t used to formal occasions. If the rehearsal is more than 50 miles from Oxfordshire, I simply ask that overnight accommodation is covered, if required.
Q: Do you charge travel costs?
A: For ceremonies within 50 miles of Oxfordshire, travel is included. Beyond that, mileage is charged at the standard UK rate of 45p per mile. If accommodation is needed, we’ll agree this openly in advance. For destination weddings, travel and accommodation are always arranged with complete transparency.
Q: How do we secure our date?
A: I take on only a limited number of commissions each season. To secure your ceremony, a non-refundable commissioning fee of 30% confirms the date in my diary ( payment is made securely online) . The balance is due six weeks before the wedding. This ensures I can give each couple my full focus and attention.
Q: What do you wear?
A: Always what feels right for your setting. I’m equally at home in a tuxedo, a tailored suit, or something more relaxed and country chic. We’ll discuss the tone of your day, and I’ll match it with quiet elegance so I blend seamlessly into the occasion.
Q: Can you work with a theme?
A: Absolutely. Whether it’s black-tie, rustic, or something more creative, I’ll bring the same polish and presence. If costume hire is needed, we can arrange this as part of your plans.
Q: Can you suggest musicians or entertainers?
A: Yes. I have an enviable contact list from my background in global events — from world-class string quartets to leading ladies of the West End. I can introduce you to trusted performers who bring an extra layer of magic and atmosphere to your celebration.
Q: Can my dog be involved ?
A: Yes please, as long as they like the belly rubs from me!
Q: What’s the most unusual ceremony you’ve been involved with?
A: It has to be - two showjumping horses getting married in Las Vegas at a drive through wedding chapel with an Elvis look alike ! Which made the headlines!
Q: What makes you different?
A: Couples often tell me it’s the mix I bring — the polish of global experience with the warmth of genuine connection. I’ve worked on projects as varied as Royal occasions, Olympic campaigns, Chelsea Flower Show gardens, and even earned a Blue Peter badge. And yes, people always comment on my voice — it brings presence and calm to a ceremony.
But what truly sets me apart is this:
I take your story and shape it into something
thoughtfully crafted, quietly unforgettable.
