Choose a celebrant whose style suits you
A ceremony can be warm and low-key, lively and funny, or shaped around family traditions. In your first conversation, ask how the celebrant gets to know you and whether you can hear an example of their delivery. Talk about personal vows, readings, music and any cultural or religious elements you would like included. Mention whether you would like a child, a friend or a relative to take part, and ask how the celebrant will support them on the day.
Plan the ceremony with the venue and other suppliers
Give the celebrant your venue, ceremony time and an idea of how many people will be there. Ask who will cue the entrance and exit music, where readers will stand and what happens if a garden ceremony needs to move indoors. A photographer will want to know where to stand for the entrance and vows. For a large room or outdoor setting, check with the venue or sound supplier who is providing amplification and a microphone for readings.
Compare what a celebrant booking includes
Ask what is included in the price and what would be extra. The first meeting, ceremony writing, script revisions, rehearsal, travel and time on the day can be treated differently by different celebrants. If you are planning a vow renewal, explain whether you want guests to hear how your story began or to focus on what comes next. Agree when you will see the draft, when wording should be final and what arrangements are in place if the celebrant is unavailable on the day.
Frequently asked questions
Can we write our own wedding vows and choose the readings?
Ask your celebrant how they help couples write their own vows and how much guidance they give readers. Agree who will bring printed copies and whether the celebrant can keep a discreet spare in case someone forgets theirs.
What should we put in a first enquiry to a wedding celebrant?
Include the event date, general area, ceremony type, expected guest count and the tone you would like. If you have already booked a venue, mention the planned ceremony time and whether it will be indoors or outdoors.
Can a celebrant lead a vow renewal or civil partnership celebration?
Look for celebrants who list your type of ceremony and ask what they have led before. Share why you are marking the occasion, whether you want new vows and which parts of the ceremony you would like family or friends to help with.