Three Decades of Staying Calm
I've worked in education and youth work for nearly thirty years, and early in my career, something happened that stuck with me. During a particularly stressful situation at the college where I worked, once everything had settled, my head of department said: "People will love working with you because you always stay calm."
I know what planning a wedding is like—the endless details, the coordination, the hoping everything comes together perfectly. Being the person who stays calm seems like exactly what you need on the day itself. Someone who won't panic, who can reassure you, and who'll guide you through your ceremony with confidence and warmth.
More Than Just Words
In my spare time, I'm a writer, musician, and performer. I'm comfortable being on stage in front of people every week, but here's what matters: I don't get nervous, which means I can focus entirely on you rather than worrying about myself.
But being a celebrant isn't about being centre stage. It's about creating the stage—the perfect setting and structure—for you two to make your commitment to each other. I'm there to hold space for your love story, to guide the ceremony, and to make sure every guest is as moved and delighted as you deserve them to be.
What I Believe In
Four principles guide everything I do:
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Love -
Every ceremony comes back to this. You've fallen in love and chosen to commit to each other. The ceremony is a representation of that love, witnessed by the people who matter most to you.
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Hope -
We live in a cynical world, but choosing to marry is an act of profound hope. It's believing in your future together, believing that love can last, believing you can build something beautiful.
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Inclusivity -
The first Quaker wedding I attended was for a same-sex couple, before such marriages were legal. Love doesn't depend on gender, background, or any other label. Everyone deserves a celebration that honours who they are.
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Happiness -
Your wedding day should be something you look back on with joy, fondness, and maybe a bit of laughter. My role is to make it as stress-free and wonderful as possible.
My Ceremony Style
I'd describe my approach as modern and alternative, though those words don't quite capture it. Yes, a wedding is a formal occasion and a ceremony, but it's really a chance for your personality as individuals—and your personality as a couple—to shine through.
I love the occasional quirky feature or unusual ceremony element. Pets or children involved? Brilliant. Song lyrics or movie references in your vows? Absolutely. This is a serious occasion, but it doesn't need to be sombre. The guests are there to witness your commitment, but they're also there to celebrate with you.
My style is calm, reassuring, and entirely focused on celebrating you and your journey together.
Why South Wales?
I live in South Wales and I absolutely love this area. I live close to the Wales Coast Path and I often see couples on the beach having their photographs taken. From Pembrokeshire's dramatic coastlines to Monmouthshire's rolling countryside, from historic venues in Cardiff, Swansea or Newport to rural retreats and manor houses - there's nowhere quite like it.
I cover the whole region because I believe in bringing ceremonies to you, wherever feels right. Castle, manor house, beach, woodland, even a lighthouse or pier if that's your style. I know the venues, I understand the weather (we'll definitely have a Plan B), and I can guide you to locations that'll make your ceremony even more special.
Something Special: Handfasting
When I got married, I had a handfasting ceremony, and I regard it as one of the most meaningful parts of the day. It's an ancient tradition with beautiful symbolism about binding your lives together.
That said, I'm always happy to include whatever elements speak to you. Your interests, your history together, your hopes for the future—we'll design something that feels authentically yours.