Enough about me! I want to hear about you: how you met, when you knew you were in love and what your hopes for the future are. Everyone's love story is unique. Let me tell yours.
About Me
My Motivation
For me, living a good life means being authentic and contributing positively to my community. Being a celebrant lights me up inside. My oxytocin goes through the roof knowing that I help couples create something beautiful and memorable.
My Background
In a former life, I had a career in sports administration and event management which certainly helps me as a celebrant. I am super organised, have great attention to detail and love creating 'a feel good factor'.
My Qualifications
I have a Cert IV in Celebrancy from The Celebrant's Training College. I am also a member of the Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants (AFCC), the largest national association of professional celebrants in Australia.
My Love Story
Whilst travelling in Ecuador in 2007, I met my Australian husband Cameron. Mine was a backpacker love story, proving that sometimes those holiday romances do last! Adventure is our passion. For our honeymoon we did a ten month trip around the world that included driving across Russia in my parent's old Volvo.
My Community
It's important to give back. I am a regular campaigner for human rights, LGBTQI+ rights, Indigenous rights and the environment. I am also part of a local 'big sister' mentoring program because I find the more I give, the more I am actually gaining!
My Down Time
I am obsessed with Podcasts. I listen to them in the shower, while I am driving, when my husband is watching cricket. My current favourites are: The Good Life Project; Happier with Gretchen Rubin; the Slow Home Podcast; Live Immediately. I'd love to make my own one day. Please tell me your podcast recommendations.
My Favourite Quote
"My Mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style" - Maya Angelou, American writer and poet.
This quote is very fitting for my work as a celebrant.
My World (Yours too)
Seeing the destruction and pollution across the world on my travels was heartbreaking. I believe in the power of one, so I do what I can: I donate to Greenpeace; try to always carry a reusable bag; buy Eco and organic cosmetics and cleaning products; and advocate where I can. For every ceremony I perform, I donate to the Nature Conservancy who plant a native tree in your name.
My Business Idea
Every business has a beginning, and the idea for mine started after my own wedding. My catholic mother was disappointed I wanted a civil ceremony. Despite this, I stood strong. I promised her that it would still be meaningful, so I made sure it was, by writing it myself. I loved the process so much. For that reason, I knew I wanted to help other people create unique ceremonies that reflected their personalities. Check out my Mum in the photo below: her face says it all!
My Home
Wanderlust runs deep within me. I've travelled to over 40 countries and I've lived in Dublin, London, Paris, the Canary Islands, the USA, Ghana, Sydney, Coleambally (rural NSW population 600!). For the first time in my life, I've found a place I don't want to move on from. I'm loving all things Newcastle, especially the laid-back vibe and the people. I think I've finally found my tribe.
My Dog
I've never had a dog before Sasha. I grew up with cats so was a bit wary, but my husband was set on getting a rescue dog. After our travels he finally convinced me the time was right. She brings us so much joy that I can't imagine our lives without her.
If we have any meetings at my house, you'll be sure to meet this affectionate and playful girl.
