What is an Independent Celebrant?

Photo of a stained glass window depicting three trees and a light source, which Rachel sees as a powerful spiritual, but non-religious image. It was taken on Caldey Island, Wales.

Perhaps you haven't come across this phrase before: Independent Celebrant. You are certainly not alone in that! When I tell people what I do, they often ask, "What's that?!" An Independent Celebrant is simply someone who is certified to preside over special ceremonies, independent from any church, other religious institution, or particular venue. This means that they have total freedom to craft the kind of service or ceremony that you would like to have! 

The ceremonies that Celebrants offer generally include Weddings*, Funerals (or Celebrations of Life), Memorial Services, Naming Ceremonies, and Vow Renewals. I offer all of these services, and I'm also very happy to discuss any other type of bespoke service or ceremony for special occasions in your life.

There are several organisations to which Celebrants can belong as members, and I would certainly recommend that you hire someone who is registered with one of those to officiate at your event, even if that isn't me.

I am registered with the Association of Independent Celebrants. They are the only registered trade association for Celebrants in the UK.

*Currently the law in England and Wales does not allow Celebrants to legally solemnise a marriage (though this may change soon).

However, you can easily do this at a Register's Office at a relatively low cost, which will mean even more freedom to craft a meaningful ceremony for your big day.