My Officiant Journey
Before becoming an officiant, I had a long and rewarding career in education in the UK as both a teacher and Vice Principal. Teaching shaped how I work more than anything else — learning how to listen carefully, explain things clearly, support people through moments that feel new, emotional, or uncertain and to remain calm if things don't go quite to plan!
My families relocation to the USA, gave me the unique gift of time to reflect on what my next chapter could be. I thought carefully about the work I had loved most during my years as a teacher and the skills I had built. It soon became clear that these were exactly the skills a celebrant needs. Creating ceremonies — whether weddings, funerals, or celebrations of life — is about holding space, telling stories, and helping people express what’s meaningful. Becoming a celebrant allowed me to take everything I had learned from my previous career and use it in a new, deeply meaningful way.
My Training
Although formal training isn’t a requirement to be an officiant or life celebrant, it was important to me that I access training to be able to carry out the role to the absolute best of my ability so that my families and couples feel that they are in safe hands.
I trained with the International College of Professional Celebrants during an immersive residential programme, where I was guided by experienced celebrants across all aspects of the role — from creative writing and public speaking to supporting families, holding space with care, and leading meaningful rituals.
I remain an active member of the ICPC, which means ongoing learning, shared knowledge, and access to some of the best resources in the industry — all with the aim of offering thoughtful, well-held ceremonies.
Since moving to the USA, I have also become ordained with American Marriage Ministries (AMM), allowing me to legally officiate marriage ceremonies.
My Style
If I had to summarise my style as an officiant, I would say that I am warm, creative, inclusive, able to put people at ease, a great listener, a reassuring presence and someone who always wants to do their best by other people. I will go above and beyond to ensure that your ceremony it is authentic and holds you and your wishes at its heart.
My family describe me as a perfectionist! Whilst they say it with a tinge of frustration (!) I am happy that I am as it means that every aspect of your ceremony will be planned with the greatest of detail and care. Only my best is good enough when it comes to being trusted to tell your stories of life and love! Choosing me as to take care of your ceremony really does mean that it will be in the most capable of hands, from start to finish.
My Loves!
My Family - My husband and I have been happily married for over 20 years. We have two gorgeous children, Caitlin and Matthew. They are my greatest achievement!
My home - it is my sanctuary and where I am most happy
Reading - a lot! Anything from classic novels to cheesy romance!
Coffee shops - I love lazy weekend mornings discovering new corners to have a good coffee.
Scotland - its dramatic landscape and big skies speak to my soul. My husband and I have a pact to retire there some day
Fall - my favorite season. The colors, the cosy nights with candles and the fire on, walking in the leaves....fabulous!
America - my new home as of July 2023! I love it here!