Blog - Love Bird Ceremonies

Photography – Simone Harris, Venue – Baldivis Farm Stay, Wedding Celebrant Perth

The Best Time of Year to Get Married

How important is the weather for your wedding? Are you worried about rain or wind or blazing sun? Are you worried mostly about the wedding party or your guests too? What is the best time of year to get married? So many questions, but as marriage celebrants we get to solemnise marriages in all kinds of weather and have picked up a few tips and ideas over the years. Here are a few questions you could ask yourself to help you make the right decision for your big day.

What are You Wearing?

This might sound like a strange question to ask first up, but it sets the scene for your wedding day. What do you feel most comfortable in – clothes that cover you up or clothes that keep you cool? The answer to that question can determine where to have your ceremony. If you like to wear summery clothes then you should choose to get married in Australia between November and April. They are the warmest months. If on the other hand, you like cooler weather, May to October are the months for you. Just a note here, in our personal opinion, the best weather for an outdoor wedding is always in Western Australia. Your Perth wedding celebrants, that’s us, don’t like getting wet either, you have very reliable weather around Perth.

Photographer – Simone Harris, Venue – Burswood on Swan, Perth Wedding Celebrant

Where to Have Your Wedding

Now that you have had a think about what you’d love to wear, it’s time to think about where you’d like celebrate. Your venue is one of the most important choices for your day – apart from your wedding celebrant of course 😉 If you have decided to get married during the cooler months, or don’t like to take chances, then it’s best to choose a venue that can cater for a plan B.
Burswood on Swan is a lovely venue on the Swan River that can cater for a sudden change of weather – we moved from outside to inside in 30 minutes! And even with bad weather you can have amazing photos!
Core Cider House recently did a quick change-around for a very grateful couple! We were set up down in the orchard beside the beautiful lake when it began to rain – everything was transported up to the reception room, tables vanished while chairs and decorations for the ceremony were set up in quick-smart time. We were all very relieved and happy!

Photo – Instalgia Photography, Venue – Trigg Beach at Sunrise, Wedding Celebrant Perth

What Time of Day Should you get Married?

Above is a stunning photo of a wedding at sunrise on Trigg Beach, Perth. Sunrise is not for everyone. You either need to find a Hair & Makeup artist who doesn’t mind getting up hours before sunrise, or sleep with your hair and makeup done, which is what Anna did. Meaghan and I, your wedding celebrant in Perth, don’t mind getting up at all hours to make sure you have the perfect celebration!
Most weddings are held in the afternoon and there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
What do your guests do while you are having your photos taken? Games? Eating your wedding cake with coffee – you could cut the cake as a part of the ceremony, after the signing has been completed!
Speak to your photographer about the perfect time for your wedding, for the kind of photos you want taken.
If you have your wedding ceremony in the morning you can invite your guests to lunch and save a little money. Dinner, and all that goes with it, is always the most expensive option.

The Love Story Wedding Photography, Venue – Bunker Bay, Wedding Celebrant Australia

How Important is the Temperature for your Wedding?

Even the best planned weddings can have weather that isn’t ideal, but a good photographer and being prepared to make the best of it can make all the difference. Choosing to enjoy your day, whatever comes, will help create those amazing memories you’ll treasure all your life. In fact it’s often the little things that weren’t planned but magically created a wonderful moment, that are remembered longest. A suit jacket isn’t something you would choose as a fashionista to wear with your wedding dress, but how good does Ramona look in her hubby’s jacket!!

Lovely setting, but no shade for the guests. Venue – City Beach

Photo – Trish Woodford, Venue – Dawesville Beach, Wedding Celebrant, Shade done well

Seth Alejandre Matthew Photography, Venue – Warnbro Beach, Perth Marriage Celebrant

Creating Great Wedding Photos

It must be one of the most important things about a wedding, having fabulous photos! They are forever and need to be good.
Seth Alejandre and the couple were particularly thoughtful and clever, setting up an arbour with fabric ceiling and using a paper parasol, (photos above and below), to create the perfect light on a beach at midday. The light can be so harsh in summer at midday and early afternoon, as it reflects off the white sand, that photos can seem over exposed. Make sure you always check with your photographer how you can make it easier for them… and your wedding celebrant.

Seth Alejandre Matthew Photography, Venue – Warnbro Beach, Perth Marriage Celebrant

Swift Hound Photography, Venue – Bennion Beach, Wedding Celebrant Perth

Perth, Western Australia versus Rest of Australia

It’s always difficult to compare beautiful places with each other but I am going to say the following:
• The weather in Perth and Western Australia is generally better than on the East Coast.
• The heat is dry and not humid like it tends to be over East.
• We have wonderful beaches.
• Wedding Planner – we can be that too for elopements.
• We have stunning indoor and outdoor venues. We can help you find the right one for you.
• We have sunsets!! Above and below are photos you will never get anywhere else in Australia! The sun sets in the west and that’s where we are!
I will let the photos do the talking but just one more thing. The best wedding celebrant for you is the one who ‘gets you’ and understands what kind of special day you want and makes sure you get it. Meaghan and I love what we do and we can’t wait to help you make your special day even more special. Please CONTACT US with all of your questions.

Photo – Delwyn, Venue – Bennion Beach, Perth Wedding Celebrant

Swift Hound Photography, Venue – Bennion Beach, Wedding Celebrant Perth

Photo – Delwyn, Venue – Bennion Beach, Marriage Celebrant

Venue – Trigg Beach, Marriage Celebrant Perth, Western Australia

Photo – Delwyn, Venue – Canning River, Wedding Celebrant Perth, Western Australia

The Love Story Wedding Photography, Venue – Trigg Beach, Best Wedding Celebrants Perth

Elopement Weddings are Real Weddings!

Perth at Night – Jacqueline Jane Photography – Eloping with Marriage Celebrant Perth

Elopement Weddings in Perth

Elopement, Kings Park, Perth – Amy Tomlinson Photography, Love Bird Ceremonies

Elopement – an act or instance of running off secretly, as to be married. Freedom, liberation

Wikipedia

You’re considering eloping but can’t decide if an Elopement Wedding is for you? Well, here’s a little information about how it all began and how you can still do it now J Historically Eloping has had a dubious reputation as it was tradition to marry in the church, and if you couldn’t get permission to marry in the church, you were definitely someone with a dodgy character.

It became a more romantic way to tie-the-knot, even if still considered ‘inappropriate’, after the laws in England and Wales changed 1754 and you needed your parent’s consent to marry if you were younger than 21. A creative blacksmith on the Scottish border realised there was money to be made and began marrying couples who were just wildly and madly in love and could skip over the English-Scottish border and elope. The famous Gretna Green Anvil was born and survives to this day, it is still possible to have an elopement wedding ceremony there. In any case, until recently, society still frowned on Eloping.

Fun Elopement Weddings – Swift Hound Weddings Photography – Eloping Perth Beaches

Eloping – Times have Changed

Times have changed radically and Elopement Weddings have become hugely popular but still, for some, the term ‘eloping’ conjures up ideas of an irrational couple, scurrying off on the spur of the moment,as if they had something to hide, to some secret place to get married.There is nothing to hide anymore. Getting married is fully and totally all about you and your partner, and shouldn’t be surrounded with concerns about what other people would like you to do, or how they would like you to do it. Be genuine and honest! Be yourselves! Be brave! 🙂

Eloping is about YOU! - Swift Hound Weddings Photography – Marriage Celebrant Perth — Eloping is about YOU! – Swift Hound Weddings Photography – Marriage Celebrant Perth

Eloping – Embrace the Benefits

Forget all those out-of-date and traditional concerns and embrace the benefits of eloping! It is a totally romantic and fabulously private way of committing to the one you love.
All the planning is made with just you both in mind, taking only YOUR needs and dreams into consideration, and… you are in the moment, without any distractions, just being ‘you’.
As one of my brides said: “To pull off the wedding quietly made it magical,” and the groom said “It felt like we were the only ones in the world!”

Celebrating Eloping – Swift Hound Weddings Photography – Marriage Celebrant Perth

Celebrating your Elopement

Celebrate your Elopement to the full! Proclaim your commitment and love for each other anywhere you like! Your ceremony can really be in your most secluded, secret place because you don’t need to transport a whole lot of guests there! Eat your most delicious cake and drink your absolutely favourite champagne! No need to share 😉

The Scented Garden – Julie Lynn & Co Photography – A Secluded Elopement

Avoid the Wedding Frenzy

Wedding Frenzy can be one of the biggest down-sides to having a traditional wedding. Everyone wants to have a say in how your wedding should be! The dress, the invites, the flowers, the styling, the venue, the food … and so on! It can be quite overwhelming. Elope and you can leave all that behind and truly enjoy your very special day. Have a big party at a later date when you’re relaxed and can enjoy the party too 🙂

Creative Elopements – Jacqueline Jane Photography – Marriage Celebrant South Perth

Secret Wedding Ceremonies – A Package

When it’s to be just the two of you, very unique venues become available. Like getting married in the Gondola here in Perth! Apart from myself as marriage celebrant, your two witnesses are the photographer, and Alan, the gondolier. Some couples have managed to keep their marriage secret for up almost a year!!!

If you’d like to just show up on the day, I am very happy to create a package that includes everything you want from awesome Photographer, fabulous Hair & Makeup, super Styling, stunning flowers and yummy Picnics to anything else you might need. Just ask ☺

Garden Elopement with Rituals – Jacqueline Jane Photography – Elopement Celebrant South Perth

How to Book Everything

I love a challenge so if you would like to chat about eloping or would love some ideas and would like a package put together, please give me a call , I would be delighted to help make your elopement fabulously magical!

Eloping in Perth – Sebastian Merle Photography – Marriage Celebrant South Perth

The Difference – Elopements and Weddings

First of all, elopements are weddings. The main difference between an Elopement Wedding and a Traditional Wedding are the number of guests who are in attendance. Mostly in a less formal venue and a more remote or cosy place. If you want to elope in Perth there are lots of gorgeous beaches and parks with quiet little tucked away corners that are perfect for a handful of people.

Sunset Elopement Locations – Swift Hound Wedding Photography – Elopement Marriage Celebrant

Best Elopement Locations

The best elopement locations are the ones that mean something to you. A place that you like to spend time that is full of romance and wonderful memories for you. If you don’t have a place like that already, let’s create one, by choosing a location for your elopement that will become special to you for the future. Day or night, sunrise or sunset, it doesn’t matter. You decide what makes it super special for you both.

Enjoying Eloping – Amy Tomlinson Photography – Elopement Celebrant Perth

Best Elopement Celebrant

The best elopement celebrant you can find is the one who wants to focus fully on you and your needs and make your elopement wedding ceremony the absolutely best day of your lives. I’m an ‘Elopement Celebrant’ in South Perth and I absolutely love elopements. Quite often couples arrive to see me believing that having, or wanting, to elope means they are going to have a fairly boring and uninspiring wedding day. No, no, no! Absolutely not true at all! Together we can create an absolutely magical elopement ceremony with all the romance and magic you ever dreamed of –and more ☺ Give me a call!

Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Jacqueline Jane Photography – Beach Elopements

Elopement Legalities

The legal requirements for an elopement are the same as for any official wedding. You will need your passport or your driver’s licence and birth certificate. You also need to complete the Notice of Intended Marriage, have your signatures witnessed by an authorised witness and then lodge the NOIM with your favourite celebrant at least one month before you plan to get married. I can help you with this, just give me a shout☺

Eloping in Perth – Heiraten in Australien – The Love Story Photography – Strandhochzeiten

Heiraten am Strand in Australien

Nun hoffentlich werden wir alle bald wieder reisen koennen und Traueme wie Heiraten am Strand in Western Australien wahr werden lassen! Es ist unglaublich einfach, ihr braucht nur einen Reisepass und dass erste Dokument – das Notice of Intended Marriage– koennt ihr schon in Deutschland, Oestereich oder der Schweiz vom Notar oder Australischen Konsulat bezeugenlassen. Bitte melde euch, ich helfe euch sehr gerne eure Traum zu verwirklichen

Is Eloping legal in Australia?
Does it matter where you get married?
Do I have to bring my own witnesses?
How long does the Ceremony have to be?

Is Eloping legal in Australia?

It sure is. All you need is your passport (or drivers licence and birth certificate) plus two witnesses over the age of 18 (I can supply these too if you want), and the patience to wait for one month.

Does it matter where you get married?

Not at all, in Australia you can get married anywhere that’s considered Australian territory, land, sea and sky!

Do I have to bring my own witnesses?

No you don’t. I can provide witnesses for you and if you have a photographer – and that is one thing I would definitely recommend – they can be one of your witnesses J

How long does the Ceremony have to be?

There is no time limit but if you want it to be only the absolute minimum, it will just take a minute!!

The Extraordinary Life of a Marriage Celebrant in Perth

Marriage Celebrant Perth — A very happy Marriage Celebrant, Perth – Swifthound Photography

My life as a marriage celebrant in Perth is a continuous string of amazing moments. I love my work because it brings me a new challenge and opportunity to be creative, with every couple I meet. I want my couples to have a unique ceremony that is tailored to them and their personalities. In short, I want them, that’s you, to own the ceremony and be proud of it. Being a marriage celebrant presents the most incredible and heart-warming opportunities to file away magical memories. Here are a few short stories for you to enjoy, hopefully as much as I did.

Marriage Celebrant Perth - - The Love Story Photography — Can-Do Marriage Celebrant Perth -– The Love Story Photography

Blowing Bubbles

Every now and then I am asked by a photographer to do something special so they can get that hero shot. This was one of those times when I was asked to be the bubble-blower at an elopement ceremony because there weren’t any guests who could oblige! As you can see, I didn’t mind at all.

Having a Laugh

Occasionally the nerves get the better of a bride or groom and something as simple as ‘repeating after me’ can go wrong. It’s not always easy to keep from bursting into uncontrollable laughter 😉 In both of the cases above the brides were marrying their ‘awful wedded husband’ instead of their ‘lawful wedded husband’. Eventually each of these brides, and everyone else, regained their composure, the correction was made, and the hilarious gaff was etched into their wonderful wedding day memories forever.

Jetting Around

Ok, so I can’t legally marry anyone outside of the Commonwealth of Australia, but, occasionally I am asked to conduct ceremonies overseas, such as this commitment ceremony. A huge privilege of course and the couple flew me from Ireland to Switzerland so I could be their celebrant. The ceremony was held in a romantic castle, on a hill overlooking Lake Lucerne, with guests from all over the world. It’s great when your website works internationally too!!

Photography

I get to see the most beautiful people in the most incredible settings and occasionally I have my iPhone handy and pointed in the right direction at the right time. These are two of my favourite photos, captured in a split second, and both made the official photographer jealous. The biggest compliment is when one of my snapshots is used for the Thank You cards! It’s happened twice!

Walking Down the Aisle

Sometimes there are tears and in this case it was an overwhelmed flower girl. The thought of walking down the aisle ahead of the rest of the wedding party made her feel fearful. With some encouragement and comforting she decided to go ahead, but only if I walked with her! So, for the first time, I was a flower girl! And, by the time we got to the carpet, she was happy to walk the rest of the way on her own. Such a precious moment when you can help someone overcome their fears.

Marriage Celebrant In Perth — The Marriage Celebrant Job – The Love Story Photography

Child-Minding

Occasionally one of the guests just needs some special attention to help them feel happy. This gorgeous little guest was happy enough to watch his Mum & Dad get married once he had a hand to hold. It was one of those times when I wished I had three hands – one to hold my ceremony book, one to turn the pages and keep the pages flat in the wind and one to hold his hand. Amazing what you can do when have no other choice ☺

Singing

I used to sing in a Rock & Roll Band years ago so sometimes when an old Elvis ballad is being performed for one of my couples I get to sing a duet. In this case, after a couple of verses the bride joined in and we let her sing the rest to her groom alone. The groom didn’t have a dry eye, mind you we didn’t either! ☺

Chauffeuring

I am so lucky to drive a Mustang, just pure fun! My couples sometimes agree with me and ask if I can chauffeur them from A to B, or just take a few photos in the car. Never a problem and always totally enjoyable! There’s only one condition, you have to forget about your hairdo! It won’t look the same after the ride!!

Team Work

It’s not unusual to be asked by a couple if their priest or pastor can take part in the wedding ceremony and say a few words or give a blessing. This is never a problem for me and it’s always an honour to work together with people who are special to the marrying couple. This occasion was extra special. Kristina and Steffen were of different faiths and had not been able to have a church wedding in Germany, only a registry wedding. They had found this very disappointing and decided to renew their vows on the beach during their holiday in Australia. They contacted me to ask if I could organise this for them and it was of course my absolute pleasure to do so! They had their ceremony on the beach at sunset followed by a 3-course meal surrounded by fairy lights. As a surprise, I asked Reverend Rae if she would do a blessing for them in the Cathedral on our way to the beach. She was very happy to oblige and together we were able to make Kristina and Steffen’s dream come true. It was a truly magical day.

Waiting

As a marriage celebrant you can expect to do a lot of waiting and it’s those moments where you get to witness the most heart-warming things. For example a very nervous groom trying to get his feelings under control, usually without any success I might add… 😉 It is just a very exciting moment when you are waiting for your partner to join you at the end of the aisle! You see people filled with happiness to see each other again after a long time of absence, babies being introduced for the first time, grandparents feeling lucky to have survived long enough to be able to celebrate this special day with their grandchildren and very proud parents.

I look forward to hearing from you and creating fabulous memories together with you.

“My dear Delwyn, We want to thank you for the beautiful ceremony and the impeccable organisation around it, therefore allowing me and Frans to enjoy every second. Both Frans and I are truly happy we have found you, and you made it all so easy.” Putry and Frans

Jacqueline Jane Photography; Love Bird Ceremonies for ‘The Rest’- Marriage Celebrant Perth

Elopement Weddings

A Very Personal & Awesomely Romantic Wedding Ceremony

With Covid on the rampage again many couples are exchanging their bigger wedding plans for an elopement. For me, it’s one of the most exciting requests you can receive as a marriage celebrant, “we want to elope, can you help?” Elopements are some of the most romantic ceremonies that I have the privilege of conducting. It’s a wedding ceremony that reflects solely your wishes and nobody else’s.

A Breakfast Picnic Elopement Wedding

How about enjoying your elopement in a gorgeous cabana on the beach at sunrise, followed by a breakfast picnic, styled to your liking. Stay on the beach as long as you like, enjoying the privacy of your special space. Bring a towel and have a swim in your wedding gear or totally relax and absorb the reality that you have just been married!

Elope on a Boat

There are so many wonderfully romantic ways to celebrate an elopement wedding ceremony and I, your marriage celebrant in Perth, am always ready to create THE idea for you. Because there is just a few of you there are no restrictions on where you can have your ceremony! This gorgeous elopement took place on a beautiful classic boat – https://www.exclusiveboatcharters.com.au/boat-list/vlaming/ – sailing up the Swan River from East Fremantle to South Perth where Jan and Jamie had booked a restaurant for dinner. Along the way we stopped for the ceremony and then celebrated with champagne and canape ☺ The sun was setting over Perth as we arrived at Mends Street Jetty, a pink sky the backdrop for the final photographs. It was the perfect day!

Morning Tea Elopement Wedding

Maybe fresh homemade Scones with the works, along with some bubbles or anything you like, are your idea of a perfect elopement? So many nice spots to enjoy this moment but down on South Perth Foreshore there plenty of beautiful trees to celebrate under!

Cheese, Crackers and Champagne Elopement

Your wedding cake doesn’t need to be huge and it doesn’t need to be cake either ☺ A delicious Brie can do the job just as well, and in my opinion, goes better with Champagne! This is the kind of ‘party’ it is so easy for you to organise too! All I need to do is arrive for your ceremony, which is tailored to exactly what you want, and make sure the legalities are done properly. How easy is that!!

Elopement on the Beach with Dinner

Isn’t this just the most romantic dinner you could ever imagine? Well this could be your elopement wedding ceremony followed by a 3-course dinner or fish and chips, whatever you like. Your imagination is the only limitation. There is only one word of advice I would like to give here, I highly recommend you have a photographer. These are moments you want to have captured and recorded forever. Everyone will want to see them afterwards and will be so, so jealous ☺

Jacqueline Jane Photography; Love Bird Ceremonies – Marriage Celebrant Perth

Feeling the Joy of Elopement

Every single couple who has had an elopement marriage ceremony, and there have been many, has been ecstatic about how wonderful and meaningful it was and incredibly relaxed they were and how much fun they had. Even the handful of friends who have accompanied them say they wish they had been married that way. There is no need for you to bring witnesses, I can provide them if necessary. There is no cost for providing witnesses ☺

Please contact me if you’re thinking about eloping, I would love to help ☺

“Delwyn made our day so special, easy, simple and beautiful with our own decorations, a picnic spot in a beautiful location, home made scones 😍 just for my husband and I ( we eloped) she supplied our witnesses too! It was an awesome day with no stress! Delwyn really went above and beyond for us and we are so grateful and thankful we picked Love Bird Ceremonies ❤” Laura

“Firstly I would like to say thank you, thank you, thank you. You truly created the most amazing atmosphere and made our elopement more special than we could ever have imagined. The dedication to your job and your care for those you marry is truly beautiful.

Still to this day, I can’t believe how over and above you went to make the moment memorable and amazing. From the balcony decorations, the rose petals, the beautiful poem, a wedding gift to the cupcakes and celebratory drinks, it was the most magical afternoon of our lives. We cannot express our gratitude enough – ‘thank you’ just does not cut it.

The ceremony was beautiful and you were the most gracious and calming celebrant I could have imagined. Thank you so very much for letting us use your balcony and welcoming us into your beautiful home. From start to finish, working with you was easy and worry free. Honestly, no words can describe my appreciation and admiration for you. You exceeded all expectations and I will forever hold you close to my heart.

From the deepest part of our hearts, thank you so very much.” Tiane & Leighton xox

Shadowcast Photography, Love Bird Ceremonies Marriage Celebrant Perth

Wedding Vows, Vowels and Vowls

How to Write the Best Wedding Vows

Which one is it?

“My husband and I would love to renew our vowls and we’re looking for a marriage celebrant… “ “Would you be available to perform a Vowel Renewal Ceremony for us on the …. “ “I don’t think I can write my own wedding vows, can you help please?”

Well… They are officially called Wedding Vows. What does it mean to take a vow? It’s a pledge, a solemn promise, and a personal commitment. So how do you begin to write your own Wedding Vows?

These are the kind of enquiries and ‘pleas for help’ that you often get as a marriage celebrant. Writing your own wedding vows is something very special and not everyone feels comfortable putting pen to paper about the thing that means the most to them, their partner. I’m a Marriage Celebrant in Perth and I am hoping with this little blog to be able to help you feel confident in writing your very own personal vows.

Kevin McGinn Photographer, Love Bird Ceremonies Marriage Celebrant Perth

First of all, think of the past…

Remember the magic of the moment you realised this was ‘the One’! What attracted you to your partner, what did you find irresistible and what did you love about them from the outset? It’s sometimes nice to mention these things and possibly thank them for being that very special person. You may surprise your partner how much you remember from those first moments and what you actually noticed ☺ And trust me, if you have wondered how well you partner listens to you, in this moment you will experience what it means to be heard 100% and with all your heart.

Now think of the present…

What is important to you at the moment? Why are you standing in front of your lover and partner wanting to marry them and what will make this day special and memorable for you forever?

The groom in the photo below was a man of few words but his bride really wanted him to write some vows. He did. Two amazing sentences which said it all. I put them onto 3 pages which he kept folded as one page while she read her vows. He then let the pages fold down and you can see the reaction he got – priceless. The two sentences made her cry with genuine happiness and love.

Sidewayz, Love Bird Ceremonies Marriage Celebrant Perth

Now think of the Future…

What are you dreams for your future? How do you see your life unfolding together with your partner? Maybe you want to remind them of the depth and honesty of your enduring love. Do you already have a family or are you blending a family – how will they be included and do you want to promise to encourage, support, and love them in any special way?

The Love Story Photography, Love Bird Ceremonies Marriage Celebrant Perth

Let your Wedding Vows Reflect your Personality

It’s going to feel best for you if your vows are written in ‘your language’ – the way you speak to each other every day – and the way you engage with one another. If laughing and joking around is your everyday life, then include that in your vows too. Think of all the gorgeous little things you do for each other and feel free to say how grateful you are for them.

Including Something Special to you Both

Sometimes you might feel the need to include something in your wedding vows that has a wider meaning for you both. In the photo below, it was the grandparent’s Bible that the couple wanted to put their hands on as they made their vows. Their religion and beliefs were important to them and their grandparents had had a hugely positive influence on their lives and relationship. It was also a sign of respect to their Grandparents.

In Short:

Even though you are making a solemn promise you don’t need to write a novel, just few honest words, straight from the heart will be perfect. You need to feel comfortable reading your vows so they really need to be ‘yours’ and not written by someone else. Start writing them as soon as you know your wedding date. Write something and then put it away. Take it out again some time later and see if you want to adjust or add something. It’s the most wonderful feeling to hear from the one you love, why and how much they love you. It’s the most beautiful and meaningful gift you can bestow on your lover, on your wedding day.

If you need some help with your wedding vows I’m always happy to create some ideas with you ☺

Some Inspiration:

What are Vowels – Dictionary Definition

The definition of a vowel is a letter representing a speech sound made with the vocal tract open, specifically the letters A, E, I, O, U. The letter “A” is an example of a vowel.

Hand-fasting Ceremonies

Hand-Fasting Ceremonies and Tying the Knot

Are ancient Celtic Hand-fasting Rituals valid here in Australia? It’s a good question and as a marriage celebrant in Perth who has accidentally become a bit of an expert in Hand-fasting ceremonies, it’s a question I feel qualified to answer. The classic Hand-fasting Ceremony is based on an ancient Celtic ritual. Folklore has it that the hands of a consenting a couple, planning to be betrothed, were tied together as a symbol of unity and apparently also to test the couple’s ability to work as a team. The old saying ‘Tying the Knot’ originates from this practice.

A Hand-fasting ceremony is a symbol of a couple becoming one and united. The couple stand face to face as their hands are tied together, but how are they tied and what are they are tied with? There are as many options as there are couples wanting a Hand-fasting ceremony. I hope, with my experience as a Hand-fasting marriage celebrant in Perth, I can answer some of your questions.

What is the Relevance of a Hand-Fasting Ceremony?

A Hand-fasting ceremony, sometimes called a Hand-binding ceremony or the Love Knot, is something very personal and intimate between two people who have decided they want to devote their love and lives to each other. As your hands are bound, and your vows are made, you are captured by each other’s eyes and immersed in each other’s love, creating a very personal and meaningful space. It is often included as part of a legal marriage ceremony these days, but historically, this ceremony was performed alone with only the couple and an officiant present, and your promises were your binding word. As your hands are bound together your marriage celebrant will guide you as you make promises to each other which are then metaphorically and symbolically tied into your union.

Choosing the Cords or Ribbons

Anything that that can be tied in a knot can be used for a hand-fasting ceremony – cords, ribbons, pieces of fabric – off the bottom of your granny’s wedding dress for example, scarves, ropes etc. Whatever is most meaningful to you. The colours can also be meaningful as traditionally there are 14 colours which each represent certain values that you wish to tie into your union and/or marriage. How many bands? You may use any number from one up to ??? I once had a couple who invited all their 37 guests to each bring a ribbon! They all tied their ribbon individually and delivered a personal wish to the couple, it took a while but was very memorable. Make sure whatever you choose is at least 150 cms long as it will be difficult for your marriage celebrant to tie in a beautiful way otherwise.

For example a favourite scarf, chosen and bought together in a favourite place, or, a handmade sash decorated with shells from the beach you are to be married on ☺

How Many Hands in a Hand-fasting?

Here there are so many options! You can hold both hands, left to left and right to right, this forms the shape of infinity between you. One-handed can be either right to right or left to left or even right to left, but really it’s up to you and what feels most comfortable for you both. If it’s going to be one-handed I prefer left to left as this is from one heart to the other.

Choices of Tying the Knot

There are a few options available but they all have something in common, the shape of the knot will be a figure of eight, or the sign of infinity. The celebrant or officiant is often the person facilitating and tying the knot on top of the couple’s hands, or, a special knot can be made by the celebrant, which, at the end of the ceremony, is pulled into a knot by the couple themselves. If, as a marriage celebrant or officiant, you are starting out with hand-fasting ceremonies, I suggest you practise at home to make sure you get it right on the day ☺

Making it Extra Special

This couple, Pam and Gary, decided that they would spend the evening before their wedding doing something quite special and meaningful. They had chosen 5 different coloured ribbons and Pam had found that there is a very interesting plait made from 5 ribbons! They decided, that with every plait, they would make a promise to each other, as together as they prepared their ribbons for the hand-fasting ceremony the next morning.

Including others

If you have children, either your own or are forming a wonderful blended family, you may consider including your whole family in the hand-fasting ceremony. If you like, each can choose their own ribbon colour, which makes it even more meaningful as the values the colours represented are bound into the marriage and family unit. The hands are stacked like you would when you are making a pact and then ceremoniously tied together as the family members make their promises to each other and then head off into the future as one unit.

You can also include your family and friends, asking your guests to tie their own ribbons or choose a special person to tie the hand-fasting band for you. Please feel free to call me, your marriage celebrant in South Perth, to discuss even more options.

Commitment Ceremonies

Kristina and Steffen were looking for a marriage celebrant in Perth and I was the lucky one they contacted. They had been married at a registry in Germany and wanted to renew their vows on a beach in Perth. They had dreamt of a romantic beach ceremony, all alone, but both missed their family and friends! My suggestion was a Hand-fasting ceremony with a sash embellished with love and best wishes from all of their family and friends, it was perfect.

If you think a Hand-fasting ceremony could be the ritual you would like to include in your wedding ceremony, commitment ceremony or vow-renewal, please contact me and let’s find the right Hand-fasting version for you.

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Same-Sex Wedding Ceremonies and Google

I absolutely don’t like putting people into boxes, labelling them or using any form of segregation. It really goes against everything I believe in. We all have a heart and that’s what makes us human and equal. But then Google came along and has been trying to teach me otherwise.

Google and my SEO advisor told me I had to write 300 words on the relevant page on my website and use all the keywords, several times, in the first 100 words! Same Sex Weddings in Perth, Same Sex Wedding Celebrant Perth, Same Sex Wedding Packages Perth, Same Sex Couples, Perth Same Sex Wedding and gay friendly.

The problem was, all I had written on my Same Sex Weddings page was: “I believe ‘Love is Love’ and it is wonderful to be able to celebrate that with everyone. Please continue to my ‘Weddings’ Page for more information about how together we can make your wedding ceremony as fabulous as you have always hoped it could be. I really look forward to hearing from you ♥. ”

For Google, that didn’t cover it! As I prefer not to conform to Google too much, I decided to write a blog instead and hopefully that will suffice to help all you gorgeous lovers find my website.

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When it’s just about Love

So really now, what can your sexual orientation have to do with love and being in love? When you fall in love, really fall in love, it’s not just a physical attraction, it’s something way more than that! As Winnie the Pooh said: “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” It’s that incredible feeling of finding someone with whom you can totally be yourself, someone who brings out the best in you and encourages you to grow into the very best version of yourself. Pure magic.

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So just for Google:

Same Sex Weddings in Perth

I’d love to be your celebrant at your Same Sex Wedding in Perth. Call me a Same Sex Wedding Celebrant if you like, but I am happy to marry anyone who is in love and ready to commit to their amazing ‘other’.

Same Sex Wedding Packages in Perth?

Yes I do those too, check out my Pop Up Weddings Package and see what you think. My Pop Ups are different because I create them around you and your needs and dreams. It’s your Pop Up and no one else’s. So Same Sex Wedding Packages in Perth? Absolutely!

Supportive Suppliers

My experience over the years has shown me how important it is to have supportive suppliers, whoever you are! Everyone is different and has unique ideas and needs and that’s exactly the way your wedding day should be treated, as YOUR special day. If you’re a Same Sex Couple planning your wedding day you should be treated without prejudice or judgment, just like anyone else. You should be enjoying the excitement of the pre-wedding journey and not be worried about how anyone, especially your celebrant, feels about you. Your marriage celebrant should be carrying you on that journey and creating the space for you to enjoy all the wonderful emotions and passion that will accompany you up until your wedding day.

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Enjoying your Wedding Day

Enjoying your wedding day sounds like something you could take for granted, doesn’t it? But even the most confident brides and grooms get nervous so it’s nice to have a team of professional and supportive suppliers making sure your day is going to be everything you’ve dreamed of and something that’s going to make you feel really proud to call yours.

You’re a Same Sex Couple?

If you’re a Same Sex Couple, you live in Perth and you’ve popped the question, you probably want a Perth Same Sex Wedding right? (Google will be delighted with that sentence…) Give me a shout, I’d love to hear your ideas for your wedding ceremony. Together we can make your dreams come true, whatever they are.

“It’s easy to say ‘Thank You’ but it’s hard to find a way to let you know what WARMTH there is behind those words today… But somehow hope this message helps to show at least in part the very special gratitude that’s felt deep in our hearts. Because your thoughtfulness and all the kindness that you show WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED AND APPRECIATED! Thank you so much Delwyn!”

from us, Ateh & Terry

“I am so happy that we found Delwyn who was recommended to us by our photographer. From the moment first started talking to us saying “I Do”, Delwyn has looked after us the entire way through, even though we are not local to Perth. I highly recommend Delwyn if you want a down to earth celebrant who is willing to go the extra mile for you. Thank you so much, Delwyn!”

Love Marylou and Mel♥

“Thanks for making our marriage legal at last! And thank you for everything you have done for our family. It is truly appreciated.”

Eric & Marcus

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Who is that and What’s Really Important?

What does it mean if you are looking for the Best Wedding Celebrant in Perth? Do you really want the Best Wedding Celebrant in Perth or are you in search of the Best Wedding Celebrant in Perth for YOU and your partner? On your wedding day you want to feel relaxed and empowered to enjoy your day, and there are certain things which can will help you accomplish that.

Who is the Best Marriage Celebrant for you and how do you find them?

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I believe it’s essential to find a celebrant who understands you and your needs. Someone who is on the same wavelength as you, and I might add, that has nothing to do with age. It’s someone who can listen to you and your ideas and translate your dreams into reality. Really listening is an art and then translating those thoughts into creative ideas is a crucial talent for any marriage celebrant. The best marriage celebrants are able to do this and leave you feeling excited and confident about your special day and your wedding ceremony.

Is it Important where they are based?

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Choosing a marriage celebrant who lives ‘near me’ can make it easier for you to meet up with them but their location shouldn’t be important. What’s important is that your marriage celebrant is flexible and happy to travel. I am a marriage celebrant based in South Perth but I am prepared to travel basically anywhere to meet with my couples and perform a wedding ceremony, and since Covid, we have all become more comfortable using Apps like WhatsApp and Zoom to keep in contact. Being a marriage celebrant in South Perth places me conveniently in the middle of so many fabulous venues from Joondalup to Margaret River and more! I am happy to travel interstate too!

What are your Marriage Celebrant’s Values?

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The best wedding celebrant in Perth for you will have similar values to you. What is important to you should be just as important to your Perth wedding celebrant. For me marriage is one of the most important steps a couple can take in their relationship and the ceremony needs to be not only entertaining but respectful of all the wonderful values that make up a great relationship. I also believe ‘Love is Love’ and support Same Sex Weddings in Perth or anywhere for that matter! I was so proud when Australia passed legislation in December 2017 to allow same sex marriage. It’s so special to able to celebrate love with all lovers.

How does your Wedding Celebrant communicate?

The best wedding celebrants in Perth are good communicators. They will respond to your inquiry promptly and supply you with all the information you are asking for. They will stay in touch with you during the process, however long it takes.

Listen to your Wedding Celebrant.

When I say “listen to your wedding celebrant” I mean listen to the way they speak. Do they speak clearly? Do they use the English language correctly? Are they able to write and present a wedding ceremony that you will be proud of? The best wedding celebrants in Perth are able to do this and if they have had voice training and have experience presenting to large groups you are on a winner. I have over 30 years experience in corporate presentation and am able to throw my voice if required. Being able to keep an audience captivated is essential as a wedding celebrant.

Look at your Wedding Celebrant

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The best wedding celebrants in Perth will always want to look their best for your wedding ceremony and will make sure they are dressed appropriately. You don’t want them to be dressed identical to the Mum’s or Dad’s, nor clashing with the bridesmaids or groomsmen. Don’t feel you can’t discuss this with your marriage celebrant …Perth. (SEOs ☺ )

How do you feel about your Wedding Celebrant

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You will feel excited, confident, proud, relaxed and very happy if you have chosen the best marriage celebrant in Perth for you. Don’t settle for anything else. This is a big day for you and your wedding ceremony is a very important part of your wedding day. I am hoping I can help you you feel like that, not just for the day but every time you think about your wedding day.

"Many thanks to Delwyn for marrying us perfectly! Having to change the date and find a new celebrant as a result, I hit Google and came across Love Bird Ceremonies. The "pop up" concept really resonated with us, and once we met Delwyn, the deal was sealed! We were very low key and not wedding-y, and Delwyn was able to capture that mood perfectly for our very small ceremony. She thought of all the little details, down to colour-coordinating with us AND our flowers! We felt as though she really cared about understanding us and what we imagined our ceremony would be like, and we were thrilled that she was able to marry us. Thank you Delwyn for helping make our wedding perfect :)"

Caroline and Michael

"Delwyn made our day so special, easy, simple and beautiful with our own decorations, a picnic spot in a beautiful location, homemade scones de0d just for my husband and I ( we eloped) she supplied our witnesses too! It was an awesome day with no stress! Delwyn really went above and beyond for us and we are so grateful and thankful we picked Love Bird Ceremonies ❤"

Laura and Rhyan

When people decide to marry it’s all about love and all the ‘lovey dovey’ things that go with it. Like! Hugs and kisses and holding hands as well as laughing and crying for joy. Of course everyone wants to hug and kiss and touch! I remember my last few big weddings before shut-down here in WA. I had the hand-sanitiser on my signing table but it was used by hardly anyone!

Everyone was still a little unsure about what was required of them and even with a gentle reminder from me only a few very conscientious guests obliged. But many of the guests did feel they needed to ask permission to hug! Everyone wants to hug the bride and groom so it creates a stifled atmosphere and a very strange feeling when you are hugging with joy in your heart and at the same time wondering if you are doing the right thing.

With Covid it’s been tough for so many lovers wanting to commit to each other in marriage and not being able to firm up a date or a venue because who knows when this will all end and friends and family will be able to travel and join in the celebrations! For some it has not been possible to postpone indefinitely so in the meantime they have had delightfully romantic elopements. (more about those in my next blog.) If you are disappointed, worried, anxious or downright angry that you cant plan your wedding date at the moment, or have already rescheduled a few times and spent money you feel is wasted on invitations etc, give me a call. I would love to give you some ideas on how to reuse and recycle your obsolete wedding stationary and anything else you have spent money on. Don’t throw it away! You can still use it. Wishing you happy wedding planning!

Fun and Relaxed Weddings

Pop Up Weddings are something very, very specialand there are so many interpretations of what a Pop Up Wedding is, it’s impossible to tie it down to one description, but I am going to try. Basically it’s a ‘one-phone-call’ wedding!