A NON-DENOMINATIONAL CEREMONY

BIO & ABOUT

CODE OF ETHICS

• First, Celebrants have received specialized training in the theory and building blocks of good ceremony, as well as in ceremony writing and performance.  They are ceremony specialists, and their training has focused exclusively on this area of expertise.

• Second, Celebrants listen and are truly interested in their clients’ stories.  They will learn in depth about the client’s personal stories, cultural, religious, family or ethnic traditions, and goals and beliefs.  They may make suggestions on readings, organization, poetry and music based on what was learned. A ceremony is crafted – in collaboration with clients – that reflects exactly who the client is and what the client envisions.  The client owns the ceremony.  Although the Celebrant may bring her particular writing style and personality to its development and performance, every word of the ceremony has been approved by the client. 
  

• Third, Celebrants provide unlimited consultation with their clients. Celebrants research and brainstorm. They will be present and attentive to your needs.

• Fourth, Celebrants rehearse.  A Celebrant does not merely show up at a ceremony and read.  A rehearsal ensures a smooth ceremony and calms nerves.

• Fifth, Celebrants generally stand to the side when performing the ceremony.  It places the Celebrant in a peer versus authoritative relationship with the clients.  It also places the focus of the ceremony where it should be – on the honorees, not the Celebrant.

• Sixth, Celebrants take on some ceremony coordinating functions.  This may include creating a much-appreciated cue sheet for musicians, writing out processional instructions, touching base with staff or photographers to highlight any special aspects of the ceremony, or to troubleshoot any ceremony issues.

• Seventh, Celebrants are professionals.  They are timely. They know the details of ceremony set-up.  They can handle last minute changes with style and grace. They perform the ceremony with warmth and sincerity while retaining a strong presence.  They offer support.  They are always available to honorees, family members and other participants, such as readers, to answer questions. 

• Eighth, Celebrants provide special extras – Celebrants create a keepsake ceremony for their clients as a gift.   Celebrants also offer the use of their own PA system for the ceremony…Because if you can’t be heard, then the ceremony is a failure for both Celebrant and clients.