What is a Celebrant? |
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Your wedding day.
It is one of the most significant days in your relationship. It is one of the most important days of your life.
You have the dress. You have selected the venue. You know what your bridesmaids will wear and the flowers you will all carry. And of course you will say . . .
. . . what will you say? Who will perform your ceremony? Where will that ceremony be performed? Where do you get the license? Do you need a license? Are you . . .
These questions are easily answered if you are getting married in your home town by your priest, your minister, your rabbi or the county clerk. But, if you have decided on a destination wedding or want to elope but don’t want to get married at the court house than you wedding needs are best served by a Celebrant.
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Selecting an Celebrant Who is Right for You
What is a Celebrant or an Officiant?
A Celebrant or an officiant is an individual who is trained and licensed to perform your wedding. A Celebrant can also perform ceremonies for Renewal of Vows, baby blessings and adoptions, coming of age ceremonies and other significant life passages.
Why a Celebrant?
There are many reasons why a couple would opt to use the services of a Celebrant. For example:
1) If you and your fiancé are not active members of a church but want a formal or spiritual non-denominational wedding, a Celebrant is an excellent choice.
2) If you have selected a destination wedding venue and your minister, rabbi or priest is unable to travel to that locale.
3) You and your fiancé decide to elope but want a ceremony in a beautiful location—not at the Court House.
4) You want to have a wedding that is unique and meaningful.
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Do Celebrants have to be licensed?
It depends on where you intend to be married. In Virginia, your Celebrant must be licensed.
I am licensed to perform marriages throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia by Bath County.
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Can a Celebrant Conduct a Religious Ceremony?
If you want a ceremony blessed within a particular religious belief system, you should contact a minister, priest or rabbi within that community.
Celebrants can easily incorporate important religious rituals and ceremonies in the celebration of your event.
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What do Celebrants Believe?
What religious beliefs a Celebrant holds is not important. A Celebrant should not impose their belief system onto you.
A Celebrant believes in the power of ritual and celebration and should work with you to determine the rituals that best reflect your beliefs and sensibilities.
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