Question 1

What is a celebrant and how is it different from a registrar?

Accepted Answer

A wedding celebrant creates and delivers personalised wedding ceremonies tailored specifically to each couple. These ceremonies are usually secular but can include religious or spiritual elements if desired. Celebrant-led weddings focus on storytelling and individuality, allowing couples to design a meaningful experience that reflects their relationship. However, celebrant ceremonies are not legally binding, so the legal marriage must be completed separately.

A registrar, on the other hand, is responsible for conducting and registering a legally binding marriage. Registrar-led ceremonies follow strict legal wording and a standard format, are typically secular, and are often short—around 20 minutes. In the UK, they usually take place at a registry office or licensed venue with limited flexibility due to tight scheduling, while in France they are held at the Mairie (town hall).

Question 2

Are your ceremonies religious or non-religious?

Accepted Answer

I create secular ceremonies by default, because that is what most of my clients prefer. However, I am very happy to incorporate religious readings, prayers or elements of faith if that is important to you or your family. My ceremonies are flexible, personal and completely in your hands.

Question 3

Can I choose where my ceremony takes place?

Accepted Answer

For weddings, vow renewals, naming ceremonies and celebrations of life, yes. A chateau, a garden, a restaurant, a barn, a beach, a woodland. If it is meaningful to you and the venue allows it, we can make it happen. For funerals and cremation services, the venue is typically the crematorium or burial ground.

Question 4

Do you conduct ceremonies in French?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I have conducted ceremonies in English, French and German. I am very happy to incorporate multiple languages into a ceremony where guests come from different countries and backgrounds.

Question 5

Will you visit our venue in advance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For weddings, vow renewals, naming ceremonies and celebrations of life, I always visit the venue before the day. I will check the layout, advise on the best positioning for guests, plan the ceremonial choreography and make sure I know the space properly.

Question 6

What happens if you are ill or unavailable on the day?

Accepted Answer

In the extremely unlikely event that I am unable to attend due to a serious emergency, I will do everything in my power to find a qualified colleague who can step in, and I will brief them fully on your ceremony. I take my commitment to you very seriously.

Question 7

Do we need a rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

A rehearsal is optional for most ceremonies. I do recommend one for handfasting ceremonies, unless you are tying the cords yourselves. A run-through can also help if you have a large wedding party, nervous readers or a lot of moving parts on the day.

Question 8

Will you coordinate with our other suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Liaising with your photographer, venue manager, florist and other suppliers is all part of my service. I want everyone on the same page so that the day runs beautifully and you do not have to worry about a single detail.

Question 9

Is a celebrant wedding legally recognised in France?

Accepted Answer

Not on its own. For a marriage to be legally recognised in France, at least one partner needs to have French residency and register the marriage with the local Mairie. A celebrant ceremony is a celebratory ceremony rather than a legal one. Most couples handle the legal element separately, either before or after their celebration. I will guide you through exactly what you need to arrange.

Question 10

Do we need to get legally married in France if we are having a destination wedding here?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not have to. Many couples who come to France for a destination wedding get legally married at home, either before or after the celebration. I will help you understand the options and point you in the right direction for whatever approach suits your situation best.

Question 11

How far in advance should I book you?

Accepted Answer

For weddings and vow renewals, as far in advance as you possibly can. Popular dates fill up quickly. For naming ceremonies and celebrations of life, a few months is usually sufficient, though I can sometimes accommodate shorter lead times. For funerals, please contact me immediately, as French law requires a very quick turnaround between death and burial or cremation.

Question 12

Do you charge for the initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

No. Our first conversation is completely free. It is a chance for us to get to know each other and make sure we are a good fit before you commit to anything at all.

Question 13

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

All fees are non-refundable once paid. This is because I commit a significant amount of time and work to each ceremony from the moment of booking. For the specific payment schedule for each type of ceremony, please see the relevant service page.

Question 14

How much does it cost to hire you?

Accepted Answer

Wedding and vow renewal ceremonies range from €1,800 to €3,000, depending on the elements included. Naming ceremonies start from €500. Funeral services are €700, as per French market rates. Celebrations of Life start from €1,250. Travel within 40km of my home in Charente Maritime is included in all fees. Beyond that, I charge 45 cents per kilometre.

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