ANNE STURMAN | Civil Celebrant

What is the difference between a celebrant and a registrar?

A celebrant can officiate for all weddings but under current law, a couple can only be legally married by a minister of a recognised faith or a registrar.

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A registrar can be present during the celebrant led wedding and the legal aspect of the wedding is then incorporated into the wedding ceremony.

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Alternatively, a couple can legally marry at a registry office and then have a large celebrant led ceremony with family and friends present afterwards. Couples often choose to attend the register office the day or a couple of days before their ceremony but you can also do so afterwards if this works better for you.

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Celebrant led weddings can be held in any location – irrespective of whether or not the venue has a license – e.g. a hotel,  garden, beach, field, barn or outside the UK. A registrar ceremony can only take place in a registry office or other licensed venue.

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A celebrant will work with you to create and design a beautiful ceremony – that includes all the elements, people and music that symbolises your love and commitment to each other. A celebrant is able to tell your love story and make your ceremony truly memorable – for everyone.

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Celebrant led weddings have no time constraints. I will not rush off for another wedding on your day, I will be booked only for you.

 

Can my wedding ceremony include traditional and religious elements?

Yes. A celebrant led wedding can include whatever you want it to. We can work together to plan and carry out rituals, traditions and religious aspects that have meaning to you and to your family and friends. For example:

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HAND FASTING

The origins of tying the knot.

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A SPICE CEREMONY

To remind us of the many elements of marriage and to bless the couple.

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JUMPING THE BROOM

This symbolises a new beginning and a sweeping away of the past, and can also signify the joining of two families or offer a respectful tribute to family members no longer with us.​

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SAND RITUAL

Different coloured sand is poured into glass containers – a lovely idea to show that families are joining together.

 

COCKTAIL MAKING

A bespoke cocktail can be designed for the day – to mark and celebrate the many components of a marriage. This could then be your signature cocktail.

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USE OF CANDLES

Candles are lit to represent love and support of families and the pledges the couple make to each other.

 

Can a celebrant write our vows and/or promises for us?

Yes. A celebrant can support you with this. You can also write your own vows or promises, and I can ensure that these are incorporated into the ceremony. The most important thing is ensuring your partner is on the same page as you.

 

Are you qualified?

I am a professionally trained Civil Celebrant and a member of the International College of Professional Celebrants. You do not need formal qualifications to become a celebrant but my 35 years in education have taught me the value of continuing my learning journey, and I am currently studying for a Level 3 Diploma in Funerals, and a Diploma in Couples and Naming – from the NOCN (National Open College Network).

 

Is there a contract?

Yes. There will be a contract that I send to you.

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How much do the services cost?

The standard fee for services can be found within the individual pages on my site. Please do contact me if you wish to discuss the costs, and any other details related to your enquiry.

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Thank you