Telling your love story

Whenever someone learns I'm a celebrant, they almost always ask two questions. And for me, the answer to both is quite simple.

What made you choose to be a celebrant?
Like many of my colleagues in this profession, I began almost by accident. I have a background in theatre studies and I'm a confident public speaker. When a family member passed away I was asked to create and conduct a simple ceremony to help them say farewell to a much loved wife and mother. I found the process very collaborative, with plenty of input from her husband and children. I took great care to tell her story in a way that drew out the key moments in her life and the impact she had on those around her.

After the service was over, I was talking with the funeral director. She was very complimentary of my ceremony and how I presented it. She compared me favourably to some of the professional celebrants she has observed. I took this praise with a grain of salt, and tucked the experience into the back of my mind. The thought of helping people draw out their stories and create meaningful, heartfelt ceremonies was attractive, and so when I was asked to become a registered wedding celebrant I decided to give it a try.

What's the best thing about being a celebrant?
In my experience, many people know how they feel, but struggle to put this into words. When I help them express what they want to say, I try to use their own words as much as possible. I just apply a little polish to help their sentiments shine for all to see. So when a couple is standing before me reading their vows, and their voices may crack or a tear escapes, I know that they have found the key to expressing their deepest emotions.

In 15 years of conducting weddings and other ceremonies, it still brings me great joy to see these moments. I love to know that I helped to create an experience which will be a special memory for them in years to come.

Did you see me in Metropol magazine?
I was in the September 2024 issue, the wedding special edition. Check out my article here: https://metropol.co.nz/tell-your-love-story-ana-connor-celebrant/

Are you planning a wedding? I'd love to meet you and help to tell your love story.
Get in touch today for a free, no obligation meeting to see if I can be your celebrant.