OVERVIEW

As your Celebrant by the Sea, I can be there to host your special day on or beside or even under the sea.

As a PADI Instructor and Ship’s Captain, I have a love of the ocean, a sense of adventure and a sense of humour to bring to your unique marriage ceremony.

With more than ten years’ experience as a celebrant, I can make your ceremony a truly memorable occasion for you, your family and friends.

This is your ceremony, your magical day to share with family and friends, in a way that everyone will remember as authentically yours.

Your ceremony celebrates a very significant event in your life – please contact me to meet and discuss planning a memorable ceremony.

There are almost no limits to what we can explore in creating your special day.

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2 reviews 4.5 Write a Review

February 2018

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Everything went really smoothly and John was really nice and relaxed and great to work with.

Emma E.

February 2018

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John was quite organised and relaxed in his manner. He's no fuss so he suited us. He was well suited.

Cindy R.

Expert Advice

As a wedding professional, Celebrant by the Sea - John Paterson offers expert advice to help couples plan their perfect day. Ask a question or read their expert advice.

Get Expert Advice

I'm considering walking myself down the aisle, thoughts?

Has any other bride done this at one of your weddings?

Celebrant by the Sea - John Paterson

Great, go for it. The Bride's entrance is the most dramatic moment of the ceremony, just as the vows and the kiss is the emotional high point of the event. So be very careful selecting the right music to accompany your arrival. That said, you do not need to go to the extent that Arianna did: https://youtu.be/zUrqEoeJ1DA

Is it okay to stand the opposite way at the altar?

I know the bride is meant to stand on the left in our culture (and opposite in Jewish ceremonies), but can I stand on the right?

Celebrant by the Sea - John Paterson

Absolutely, yes. Outdoor weddings often have some breeze, and the bride may want to stand so that the wind will not blow hair across her face. There can be many reasons why the bride might want to be on one side or the other. But whichever side, it's best if the couple can stand facing each other (and holding hands) so that the guests can see them both.

Have you ever made a mistake in a ceremony? Like saying a name wrong or anything?

Celebrant by the Sea - John Paterson

I am sure that I have made many mistakes but they are mostly small because none have been brought to my attention. Everyone makes mistakes, particularly a nervous bride or groom in reading their vows. I have found that the most common mistakes at weddings have to do with the timing or loudness of the music, so I always want that rehearsed. It is very important, I think, to reassure the bride and groom that any "mistakes" they might make probably won't be noticed, and even if they are noticed, they do not matter. "Just relax and enjoy your special day."

Carla J