Right Celebrant, Right Moment – Five Steps to Getting It Right by Helen McMullan

I’m often asked how people should choose their celebrant—or, in other words, what should guide their choice? Naturally, as a celebrant, I might be a little biased (I’d love for you to choose me!), but in all seriousness, selecting the right celebrant is a deeply personal decision. The right person will not only bring your vision to life but will also make you feel completely at ease throughout the process.

Here are five guiding principles to help you find the perfect celebrant for your unique ceremony.

1. Recommendations – Word of Mouth Matters

Ask friends, family, and colleagues if they’ve attended a wedding, funeral, vow renewal, or naming ceremony that left a lasting impression. Who was the celebrant? What made them stand out? Personal recommendations are one of the best ways to find someone truly exceptional.

2. Personal Experience – Reflect on What You’ve Seen

Perhaps you’ve recently attended a ceremony yourself. What did you think of the celebrant? More importantly, how did they make you feel? If the ceremony was heartfelt, beautifully delivered, and left a lasting impression, that celebrant might be the right fit for you.

3. Go Online – Do Your Research

Explore the websites and social media pages of local celebrants. A well-crafted website often reflects a professional and passionate celebrant. Pay attention to how they describe different ceremonies—does their style resonate with you? Look for testimonials, photos, and videos that showcase their work.

4. That First Conversation – Trust Your Gut

Your initial chat with a celebrant will set the tone for everything that follows. Consider the following:

• Did you connect with their personality and communication style? They will play a key role in your special day, so it’s important that you feel comfortable with them.
• Did they actively listen to you? A great celebrant will take the time to understand your story, rather than simply talking about themselves.
• Did they inspire confidence? You should walk away from that first conversation feeling excited and reassured that your ceremony is in good hands.

5. The Perfect Fit – Do They Feel Right for You?

At the end of the day, the right celebrant is someone who aligns with your values, understands your vision, and makes you feel at ease. Ask yourself:

• Do they seem genuinely excited about your ceremony?
• Do they offer flexibility and a personalised approach?
• Do they have the right balance of professionalism, warmth, and energy?

Choosing a celebrant is about more than just ticking boxes—it’s about finding someone who feels right. When you do, you’ll know you’ve found the perfect person to help shape one of the most meaningful moments of your life.