Vivienne Celebrant

Vivienne Celebrant

Almost every bride in my wonderful years as a celebrant, has included the timeless tradition of 'something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue'. But  the 'blue' is generally no longer the garter!  Stunning blue heels, or a pair of statement sapphire drop earrings have been breathtaking alternatives.

I advise and assist couples to create new elements to their ceremony with a traditional twist.  The hand holding or hand-fasting ritual is very special - especially if the ribbon, cord or wrap encompasses a family tradition.  For example, it may be a ribbon in the Scottish groom or bride's family tartan.  Or made up of ties from a father or grandfather that has passed.  Other special memories that creates a beautiful tradition is the chair reserved for a family member - in loving memory.  The lighting of a memorial candle has also become a heartfelt tradition since the pandemic.

Another element that has become really popular and which I encourage if it fits the love story and personalities of the couple, is the Treasure Chest or Time Capsule.  Especially if couples would rather not read out their personal vows in front of all their guests.  They love the idea of saying their vows privately to each other the night before the wedding, and then placing them in the Chest during the ceremony, together with a special bottle of their preferred drink, to open on their First Anniversary.  What a beautiful memory to re-live.

Although many Brides love Mum or Dad, or both, walk them down the aisle, the words 'Giving Away' are not that popular anymore.  The new take on this old and seemingly timeless tradition which acknowledges the parents role in a special way, is now 'Who brings' and is directed at both parents if they are present. 

Vivienne Celebrant

How to honour lost loved ones at a Wedding by Vivienne Celebrant, Gold Coast.

A wedding ceremony is a special time of families joining and growing together and so it is also a perfect time to honour those that are no longer with you.  It is up to the Bride and Groom as to the tone of the acknowledgement but doesn't have to affect the rest of the Ceremony, even if for a brief moment of acknowledgement, the emotions are high.

An "In Loving Memory" element right after the Welcome at the beginning of the ceremony can, in a few beautifully written words, remind family and friends of the special people that could not attend and share the memorable moments throughout the wedding day.

Photographs of loved ones that have passed, displayed on an easle and surrounded by flowers, is a lovely reminder, or a photograph at the place where the loved one may have been seated.  It is not that practical to light candles at an outdoor ceremony due to wind or inclement weather, but this is a lovely idea at an indoor reception, perhaps close to the cake table.

I have also suggested to couples that are wanting a Poem or a Reading, that the holding hands, hand-fasting Poem provides a special element in the Ceremony in that the cord or ribbon could be made up of scarves or ties of the parent or family member no longer with them.  

Vivienne Celebrant

The objection line has not been requested or included in any ceremony I have officiated in the last 3 years and I am relieved and very grateful for that - as I am sure couples are too!  It creates an awkward silence and is not necessary for modern, or even traditional ceremonies, due to the way that the legal side of marriage documents are set before the weddng takes place, leaving no legitimate grounds for objection.