January 2, 2020

Wedding Ceremony Planning for Introverts

I know that the wedding day can be a bit overwhelming for lots of people, but especially introverts, as it combines some of their least favourite things: being the centre of attention, getting their photo taken repeatedly, engaging in small talk and having minimal alone time.

A lot of modern wedding traditions are built for extroverts: the first dance, photo shoots and personalised hashtags all serve the purpose of making YOU the star of the day. That works for some, but I am mindful it’s not for everyone.

There are a lot of introverts and more private people out there who don’t feel comfortable with this level of attention—but that doesn’t mean that they can’t have an amazing wedding day.

So if you’re an introverted, shy or sensitive person, don’t feel the pressure to conform to tradition, family pressure or Pinterest. Like all wedding planning, you have the power to make it work for you. Don’t let others make you feel bad for planning the wedding ceremony you want, especially if that means celebrating in front of just a small number of guests.

August 20, 2019

in Wedding Advice

Why it’s OK to cry during your wedding ceremony

Why it’s ok to cry during your wedding ceremony blog by Julie Muir Celebrant

Whether you normally bawl at the drop of a hat or can’t even shed a tear during The Notebook, there’s a good chance that you might cry on your wedding day.

So many couples confide in me that they are worried about crying during the ceremony, as they feel it’s a bit embarrassing. I disagree completely. There ain’t no shame or embarrassment in crying on your wedding day. Shedding a few tears just shows that you understand how important this milestone really is.

The reason for the tears is usually a mix of happiness, letting go and moving on to another stage of life.

You’re expressing your love in front of others, and celebrating your relationship—that can certainly get tears to flow in even the most hardened personality! I’ve seen so many dudes swear to me in meetings that they won’t cry, only to bawl on the day, and I love it.

When you well up, others will well up too. I promise you won’t be alone. I actually think you are giving your guests a gift. There aren’t many safe spaces you can cry, out in the open: a wedding day is a real opportunity for you and your guests to feel alive by feeling a broad range of emotions.

May 16, 2019

in Wedding Advice

Reasons to start your wedding ceremony on time

There are lots of wedding traditions I am not a big fan of like tossing the garter and sitting at a sweetheart’s table.

But the tradition I like the LEAST is that ceremony can start late cause the bride (or groom) can arrive as late as they want. This is one urban myth that needs to be squashed.

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March 18, 2019

in Wedding Advice

Should you have a Wedding Ceremony Rehearsal?

There’s no rule that says you must have a wedding rehearsal. If you have a small bridal party, and the ceremony does not include any wedding rituals or readings, then you can probably get away with not having a rehearsal. However, if your wedding is more formal—and especially if you have children participating in the ceremony, then I recommend you do one.

Personally, I’m a big fan of a walk-through. The main reason is that, without a doubt, they make everything run smoother on the day. It’s a great opportunity to tap into the knowledge and expertise of the celebrant. Having said that, I’ve done lots of weddings without a rehearsal for couples who felt they didn’t need one, and they worked out fine too.

February 9, 2019

in Wedding Advice

How to chose the best music for your wedding ceremony

Music is such an important part of your wedding day. And not just for the P-A-R-T-Y. You need to get it right for the ceremony too. The music you chose should be a reflection of your personalities and set the vibe for your guests, whether that’s romantic, classic, relaxed, fun, upbeat or alternative. Music sets the mood and the tone and encourages the guests to be social so it’s worth putting a bit of thought into it.

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February 2, 2018

in Wedding Advice

Changing your name after you get married

Changing your name is a personal decision that every man and woman has to make. Yes! Men can change their names too if they want to.

If you decide to change your name after you get married, then be prepared. I’m not going to lie, it’s a bit of a chore. It is not as simple as waving a wand. I wish it could be done with just one form! Unfortunaetly, it’s a P-R-O-C-E-S-S that can take months, depending on how organised or how much spare time you have.

Think of it as your next project, after the wedding planning is over! It is not nearly as much fun but it is a necessary-evil if you want to change your name.

January 5, 2017

in Wedding Advice

Dogs in the Bridal Party? I say YES !!!

During my training to become a celebrant I was strongly advised not to allow pets to take part in any ceremonies as they can be unpredictable and distracting.

Then I launched myself into the world of celebrancy and the first couple that booked me wanted not one, but all three of their dogs to be involved.

What was I suppose to do? My guiding principle as a celebrant is to advise and facilitate; not to stand in the way of what couples want……. so the dogs were in!

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