Why should I hire a celebrant for my wedding?
- fionawhelton2020
- Apr 25, 2025
- 3 min read
Planning a wedding on the Wild Atlantic Way? Whether you're dreaming of a barefoot beach ceremony, a forest elopement, or a cosy gathering with your favourite people, choosing the right celebrant can make all the difference. As a professional celebrant based in Doolin, Co. Clare I know just how powerful a personalised ceremony can be. Here's everything you need to know about hiring the right celebrant for your unique day.
What Is a Wedding Celebrant?
A wedding celebrant is someone who creates and leads bespoke ceremonies tailored to reflect you as a couple — your love story, your values, your journey. Unlike registrars who follow a set script, celebrants offer a ceremony that's rich in meaning, storytelling, and symbolic ritual (hello Handfasting and Cacao Ceremony!).
Celebrants can officiate weddings anywhere — Cliffside, castle, backyard, you name it — and with any tone or theme that feels right for you. It is important to note that in order for a legal ceremony to take place there are certain criteria to be fulfilled and some places such as a private dwelling cannot be used for a legally binding ceremony. I would still explore your options with your celebrant as some venues may surprise you and a good celebrant will always have a 'plan b' up their sleeve!
Why Choose a Celebrant-Led Ceremony?
1. It’s All About You!
Your ceremony will be deeply personal, filled with stories, rituals, and readings that resonate with your journey together. Want to write your own vows? Add a tree planting or a ring-warming ritual? Or maybe open your ceremony with a heart-opening Cacao Ceremony? With a celebrant, you can!
2. Freedom to Choose Your Location & Date
Celebrants aren’t tied to specific venues. From windswept cliffs to candlelit barns, you're free to marry in the place that speaks to your soul. Celebrants conduct ceremonies 7 days a week!
3. Time to Breathe
Unlike back-to-back registrar appointments, celebrants focus solely on you. Your ceremony won’t be rushed — it will unfold with intention and care.
4. A Ceremony That Feels Like You
Your guests will leave saying, "That ceremony was so them." Whether you're spiritual, quirky, emotional, or somewhere in between — your celebrant brings your essence to life.
How to Choose the Right Celebrant
1. Do Your Research
Browse websites, read reviews, and scroll through social media. Look for celebrants whose energy and approach resonate with you. Many of us, myself included, have videos online so you can get a feel for our vibe.
2. Book a Chat
Most celebrants offer a free initial call — this is your chance to see if there’s a spark. Ask about their process, experience, and whether they’ve worked at your venue. Most importantly: do you feel seen, heard, and excited?
3. Ask the Right Questions
What’s your process for getting to know us?
Do you offer unique rituals or spiritual elements?
Can we write our own vows?
How do you support us on the day?
4. Understand the Costs
Fees can vary depending on experience, location, and what's included. Typically, you'll receive a planning session, unlimited support, a fully crafted script, and delivery on the day. Always check what’s included so you know exactly what you’re getting. I include a printed and bound booklet of the entire ceremony as my gift to the couple.
Making It Yours
With the right celebrant, your ceremony becomes a collaboration — a chance to create something beautiful and unforgettable. Whether you involve family and friends, incorporate rituals like handfasting or cacao, or simply want a heartfelt celebration filled with laughter and love — your ceremony should feel like home.
Ready to Explore the Magic?
If you’re looking for a ceremony that’s authentic, personal, and a little bit magical — you’re in the right place. Let’s co-create something extraordinary, filled with heart, soul, and story. Because love deserves to be celebrated in a way that’s uniquely you.
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