Namings & Adoptions FAQ’s
Below you’ll find the answers to some of my most asked questions!
General Questions…
I am trained to officiate and create personalised ceremonies for important life events, such as weddings, funerals, and other significant milestones. Unlike religious ministers and registrars, I focus on crafting unique ceremonies based on the individual needs and beliefs of those involved.
Absolutely! I am skilled in blending different traditions, cultures, and religious elements. If you wish to include specific religious rituals or readings in an otherwise secular ceremony, I am happy to accommodate that.
Certainly. I am trained to understand and respect a vast array of beliefs and spiritual orientations. I can craft ceremonies that reflect individual spiritual beliefs, even if they aren’t aligned with a specific religion.
Absolutely! I have lots of experience and can offer recommendations or suggestions for music, readings, or other ceremony elements.
Yes! I provide a commemorative copy of the ceremony script as a keepsake for the couple or family.
Absolutely! I can craft ceremonies for other significant life milestones, such as naming ceremonies, coming-of-age rituals, or even retirement celebrations. My expertise extends beyond weddings and funerals to honour various pivotal moments in someone’s life.
I typically dress in professional and neutral attire that doesn’t detract from the ceremony’s focus. If you have specific attire or theme requests, I am happy to accommodate and will dress accordingly.
Unlike many Celebrants, I believe in being transparent with my fees, so you will find all the details for the various packages displayed on my website. I don’t just quote a ‘from’ figure and include lots of hidden charges! Remember that you’re not just paying for the ceremony itself but for the time, effort, preparation and expertise I bring to crafting your unique event.
It’s essential you feel a connection with me and that I resonate with your beliefs and values. Whilst my testimonials tell some of the story, nothing beats picking up the phone and talking to me! I’d love to discuss your vision with you by phone, over Zoom or in person.
Please discuss any changes with me as soon as possible. I will try to accommodate changes, but there might be fees involved, especially if the change is made close to the event date.
I have a network of trusted colleagues who can be called upon to deliver your service if the need arises.
Absolutely! In fact, I’d encourage you to! A face-to-face meeting, or even a virtual one, allows us to establish a connection, discuss your vision, and ensure we’re on the same page.
My training emphasises the importance of inclusivity, respect, and understanding. I approach every ceremony with an open heart and mind, ensuring everyone feels seen, respected and celebrated.
Yes. I am a proud member of the Association of Independent Celebrants and adhere to their code of ethics that prioritises the well-being, respect, and wishes of my clients. This ensures professionalism, confidentiality, and the highest standards of service.
Yes. I have public liability and professional indemnity insurance to protect against any unforeseen events or accidents during ceremonies.
Yes, I actively participate in ongoing training and professional development courses to stay up-to-date with industry best practices, emerging trends, and to refine my skills.
Naming specific questions…
I typically begin with a consultation where I get to know your family, your values and preferences. I will ask you about your hopes and dreams for your little one’s future and any specific rituals or elements you wish to include. With this information, I craft a ceremony that’s deeply personal and meaningful for your family.
Absolutely! The ceremony can involve the whole family, especially if you are marking the blending of two families.
It’s entirely up to you! It’s your ceremony, your way! Appointing Guideparents or Guardians has no legal status.
No. The legalities of the name change are done separately. For example when you attend the Register Office to register the birth, the Adoption Order in the Courts or by Deed Poll. The ceremony is to mark the occasion, usually in front of friends and family.
No! You can have a naming ceremony for anyone of any age. You can celebrate the name change on an adoption, gender reassignment or even on a divorce!
Absolutely! I often assist parents with writing or refining their promises. I can provide guidance, examples and feedback to ensure your vows are a genuine reflection of your feelings and commitment.
It’s advisable to book as soon as you have a date in mind. I generally don’t officiate namings on a Saturday, but feel free to ask in case that date is free!
Yes I do. I have a Bose PA speaker and a variety of microphones, so I can ensure that everyone attending can hear the ceremony.
I am trained to be sensitive and knowledgeable about various faiths and cultures. I work closely with families to understand and seamlessly integrate different traditions and rituals, ensuring all backgrounds are honoured and celebrated.
The duration can vary based on your preferences and the elements you wish to include. Generally, ceremonies led by celebrants last between 20-40 minutes but the length can be adjusted to suit your needs.
I am trained to incorporate a wide range of rituals and traditions, including sand ceremonies, handfasting and candle lighting. If you have a particular ritual in mind, or if you’re looking for suggestions, I can help guide you. Check out my blog for a list of suggestions.
Anywhere you want so long as you have the landowners permission!
Yes! I am committed to working alongside other professionals to ensure your ceremony is seamless and as you envisioned.
Yes! You will have a commemorative certificate and script from the day plus any additional items used in any mini-ceremonies.
Below you’ll find the answers to some of my most frequently asked questions!
Yes if you want to! You can chose to involve who you would like and you can call them anything you’d like as well, such as guardians or Guideparents.
Yes! You will get a commemorative certificate as well as the script to keep. Also if you choose to have an additional mini-ceremony then you could have candles, a tree, a time capsule or anything else you want!