How It Works
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It is important that there is a connection between us and that you trust me to bring your vision for your ceremony to life. The first step is to book a no-obligation conversation to see if we’re a good fit. In the case of funerals, this first meeting often happens over the phone, given the usual short time frame between the call and the funeral. For most other ceremonies (i.e., weddings, baby dedications, retirements, house blessings, etc.), we meet face-to-face over a video call. That way, you can be in the comfort of your own home. (I won’t tell anyone if you appear in pajamas for our call!)
At our first meeting, we discuss your ideas, needs and preferences for the ceremony. I listen as you share your story and answer any questions you might have. We explore and brainstorm initial ideas for the ceremony. I explain my fees and tell you more about what the next steps would be.
If you decide we are a good fit, you sign a contract and pay a retainer, and your date is reserved in my calendar.
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The heart of a Celebrant ceremony is the story of the person or people we are honouring. At this point, in the case of most life events, I will send you a set of thoughtful questions, tailored based on your situation. Then we’ll meet again for an in-depth conversation. I will learn about the significant aspects of your journey: What risks did you have to take to get to this point? Who and what supported or challenged you along the way? What lessons will you carry with you as you enter the next stage of your life? In the case of funerals, the process is slightly different. Click here for more information.
I will then spend many hours researching, designing and writing the ceremony. I’ll offer ideas for rituals, readings, and other elements that reflect your story, values and beliefs. I will revise the ceremony and collaborate with you via email, phone calls and, if necessary, additional meetings. Through this process, a custom-crafted, meaningful ceremony will take shape.
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I provide unlimited consultation. I’ll refine the ceremony script until you love it! You’ll have final approval.
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I’ll coordinate with your ceremony professionals (musicians, photographers, videographers, venue staff, etc.), and provide a professional cue sheet, a music cue sheet and ceremony participant instructions, if necessary.
On the day of the ceremony, I’ll arrive at least 30 minutes early to make sure everything is in place. I’ll officiate with warmth, professionalism, and grounded authenticity.
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Every ceremony draws on a different combination of my skills and time. I offer a premium service at a cost that reflects my experience, training, and all the care and time that I will invest in researching, writing and officiating a one-of-a-kind ceremony that beautifully reflects the person or couple being honoured.
The scope of my work is defined by your vision, priorities and preferences. My fees are based on various factors, such as the type, complexity, date and location of your ceremony.