How long have you been a celebrant?

Sixteen years - how time has flown! Back in 2010, when my life was already super busy with three pre-school sons, I embarked on my formal celebrant training. By 2011, when I graduated with my Certificate in Celebrant Studies, I was heavily pregnant with my daughter - and the first bride I married after becoming a registered independent celebrant was our nanny! In the years since, my four fabulous children have all stepped in as 'secret elopement witnesses' at one time or another. They have always been my biggest cheerleaders. There have been many changes in the celebrant 'space' since I started, but my one constant in this work is the heart-warming sense of connection and joyful creativity that comes from knowing a couple has trusted me to tell their story and share their happiness. 

What were you doing before you became a celebrant?

I spent the first decade of my working life in Wellington and London, where I was a solicitor specialising in medical law. I then became a stay-at-home mum and Playcentre parent educator. These days I work part-time in a central Auckland high school where I am a learning assistant for neurodiverse students. 

What's one thing you absolutely love about the role?

He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata. I just love the gorgeous diversity of the people I meet in this work. It is a huge privilege to meet folks from all walks of life, from every culture and country, and listen as they tell me what matters most to them. Every ceremony I take has the potential to teach me something new about myself and other people and the world we live in. My role as a celebrant has constantly challenged me and changed me. I'm also incredibly grateful for the amazing community of celebrant colleagues I have met along the way, many of whom are now very close friends.  

When you’re not doing weddings, what would we find you doing? 

I'm pretty addicted to family history and genealogy and love a good stroll around a graveyard - is that weird? I love coffee, G&T, good books, rock concerts and family holidays at the beach. If I'm not writing wedding or funeral ceremonies, you'll probably find me attempting to write my first novel, walking up my local maunga, or drinking wine in the sunshine with friends. In the school hols, I'm usually down in Hawkes Bay helping out on my parents' small farm.