Your East Midlands Wedding - April/May 2024 (Issue 61)

FLOWERS 53 PLANNING SOS Bring your dream wedding to life with help from the experts SHOWSTOPPING WEDDINGS JULIA GAUNT, JOOLS WEDDING CELEBRANT Take your time and do your research before booking anything. Many venues and suppliers are busy, so make sure you book in advance. Remember to keep costs in check, as they can easily spiral. Keep a little book to stay on track. Talk to multiple celebrants as we all offer something different. I offer a personal service where I’m someone you can relate to. You will meet me many times before your unique ceremony, as we need to get to know each other to have a good rapport. On the day, I believe everyone should feel like I’m a friend telling the unique story of how you met while sharing your hopes and dreams for each other as well as your future lives. Always check that your chosen celebrant is happy to do ‘your style’. For instance, some couples like to add religion, some like humour and some want to incorporate a theme such as a favourite film or TV show. I’m always happy to embrace new ideas and with a background in performing arts, I’m used to carrying out performances. This means I can work in stressful situations while remaining calm, giving you both confidence that everything is under control so you can truly enjoy the special day. I pride myself on only doing one ceremony per day to give my couples full attention. I will arrive an hour (or more at your request) before the ceremony and will stay with you until my job is done. To me, this is very important! Discuss your ideas with each other and get to the details of what you truly want for your special day. Are you after a big wedding with all the hutzpah, a ceremony in a special place like a favourite holiday destination (maybe where you proposed), a beautiful hotel, a bejewelled woodland, a sunny beach or your back garden – the options are endless! Celebrant-led weddings can be carried out on any day of the week and at any time. Chosen venues do not have to be licensed; this is not a legal service – it’s a celebration ceremony. Create your beautiful service with specially written vows and personalise moments incorparating loved ones. Why not add a candle, sand, or even a ring-warming ceremony? There are many ways to involve family and friends, all adding to the uniqueness of the day. I’m here to guide you through ideas and help achieve what you thought might not be possible. For instance, maybe you would like to include your family dog, or perhaps you want children to join in. Your celebrant should be with you every step of the way, from the first call to your ceremony and a little while after. As a celebrant, I love to create unique ceremonies that reflect you two. Check out: www.joolsweddingcelebrant.co.uk Planning a wedding might seem like a daunting task with so many different aspects to consider – it’s hard knowing where to start. So, we’ve gathered experts from around the region to share advice for creating flawless weddings.

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