Dionne M Photography
I'll let you into a secret. The most wonderful, memorable and creative ceremonies are like that because of the people at their heart.
That is to say it's not about me!
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If I have done my job well, it won't be me that is the focus - but your story and how your ceremony made you feel.
That is my aim.
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Having said that, it is important that you feel comfortable with whomever you choose to trust with your ceremony and that you know the options available to you.
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If you'd like to see if we are a good fit, just get in touch and we can arrange a chat. I'd love to hear from you!
In the meantime, here's a wee snapshot of how I came to be here...
​Growing up, I loved to write stories, often involving people I knew, sometimes inserting them into mystical worlds and adventures. I used to dream that one day I would become a writer.
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Mind you, looking back on my younger childhood musings, there was also a point I wanted to be a dancer, or a gymnast. That I'd never even stepped foot in a gymnastics class apparently didn't matter!
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I discovered I was good at listening to others and helping them to express themselves and for the last 20 years that has been where my passion has settled: in supportive, listening roles, including as a qualified counsellor.
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​​I've worked with children, young people and adults, from all walks of life. This journey has further deepened my belief in the fundamental importance of love, acceptance, connection and the freedom to live authentically. And, as it turns out, the skills and qualities I've developed - listening, empathy, warmth and genuine interest in others - align well with celebrancy too!
It's occurred to me that, in the end, I became a writer, of sorts, after all. I've ended up in this incredible, life-affirming role; a combination of listening, writing, story telling, of co-creating something special and authentic with couples and families through every point of life. I consider myself to be very fortunate to be here!
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It's the moments of connection with people that I value the most. There is nothing as satisfying or that fills my heart more than to help to bring your words, values and vision together. For you to feel heard, seen, understood and celebrated for who you are and to have a ceremony that reflects this. In turn, this is also a beautiful and fulfilling part of upholding the principles and beliefs core to my own life.
It was after attending a funeral for my good friend's mum that I began considering using those skills in a new way - as a celebrant.
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Her funeral ceremony was like no other I'd been to: sad, yet uplifting and comforting. And with a few chuckles, too, which for her was just right. Here was this celebrant speaking about this unique, wonderful and loved woman, capturing her essence so well. Only, as it turned out, they had never met. I was utterly blown away. Something stayed with me that day that was to change everything.
I later trained as a celebrant with Susan and Gerrie Douglas-Scott, who went on to found Celebrate People. When I first read Celebrate People's belief system, I knew instantly that this was an organisation in which I'd feel at home. I feel incredibly honoured to be among the first celebrants welcomed to this supportive and inspiring community.
Richard McBlane Photography
A bit more about me...
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Enthusiastic * reliable * listener * empathetic * passionate * creative
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LOVES dogs, crisp autumn days, forests, punk rock, daydreams, beaches, adventures, coffee and dinosaurs.
