Choosing the right celebrant is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your wedding ceremony. To help couples better understand the role of a celebrant and what to look for when booking one, we’ve invited wedding celebrant and legal solemniser Rev. April Kling to share her expert advice. Drawing on her experience officiating weddings across Ireland, April outlines the key do’s and don’ts every couple should know before choosing the person who will lead one of the most meaningful moments of their day.
As a wedding celebrant in Ireland, I can attest first and foremost that my colleagues and I love what we do. Uniting people in love is a sacred act that we do not take lightly. So when you are planning your wedding, please know that we are holding your pending nuptials in the highest regard. Your special day is extremely important to us.
That said, I have performed enough weddings and have heard enough tales from my peers that make it clear we have our work cut out for us in educating others about what it is we do, what it is we don’t do, and what we expect – or at least hope for – from the couples we work with.
To be helpful, I’ve put together a list of DO’s and DON’TS to assist you in making the selection of a proper celebrant to match your wedding’s overall vibe, as well as protect you from making a misstep that may cause embarrassment or leave you unsatisfied while planning the day of your dreams.
DO: Book Your Celebrant Early
Contact celebrants as many months in advance of your wedding date as possible to ensure they are available for your preferred date and time.
DON’T: Leave It Until the Last Minute
Most celebrants prefer bookings at least 90 to 120 days in advance. If your celebrant is also legally solemnising your marriage, you’ll need sufficient time to complete the required paperwork with the General Register Office (GRO).
DO: Choose a Celebrant Who Reflects Your Values
Make your choice based on your beliefs, style, tastes, and preferences.
Before booking:
• Explore their website
• Read reviews
• Arrange a phone or video consultation
• Discuss your vision for the ceremony
The more information your celebrant has, the better they can create a ceremony that feels authentically yours.
DON’T: Compromise on What Matters Most
Your ceremony should reflect you as a couple.
While family traditions and beliefs can certainly be honoured, they don’t need to dictate your choices. Many celebrants, including myself, are experienced in blending different faiths, cultures, and traditions. Equally, if you prefer a completely secular ceremony, choose a celebrant who will support that vision.
DO: Understand the Difference Between a Celebrant and a Solemniser
Celebrant
A celebrant performs the wedding ceremony.
Solemniser
A solemniser has the legal authority to marry you in the eyes of the state.
Most registered solemnisers in Ireland also act as celebrants, but not every celebrant can legally solemnise a marriage.
Before booking, confirm whether your chosen celebrant can legally complete your marriage paperwork if that is part of your plan. For couples travelling to Ireland for a destination wedding or elopement, check with the relevant authorities in your home country regarding legal recognition requirements.
DON’T: Assume Anything
Always ask questions about:
• Legal paperwork
• Venue requirements
• Marriage registration
• Ceremony options
• Travel arrangements
A quick conversation can prevent major misunderstandings later.
DO: Make Full Use of Your Celebrant’s Expertise
Most celebrants include extensive planning support within their packages.
Take advantage of:
• Planning meetings
• Ceremony guidance
• Script reviews
• Rehearsals
• Personalised advice
Review your ceremony plan carefully to ensure every detail is correct and nothing important is overlooked.
DON’T: Request a Generic Ceremony
There is no such thing as a meaningful fill-in-the-blank wedding ceremony.
The best ceremonies are personal, unique, and tailored specifically to the couple. Your ceremony should invite guests into your story and celebrate the life you’re building together.
DO: Budget Realistically
Expect to invest approximately €800 to €1,200 or more for an experienced celebrant.
Most celebrants require a deposit to secure your date, typically around 50% of the total fee.
As with most professional services, quality, experience, and personalisation are reflected in the price.
DON’T: Forget the Practical Details
Celebrants may incur:
• Travel expenses
• Accommodation costs
• Additional rehearsal attendance fees
For early morning ceremonies, providing accommodation the night before can be helpful. For evening weddings, accommodation afterwards may be appreciated.
While never expected, including your celebrant in your catering numbers is always a thoughtful gesture.
Are you looking for a wedding celebrant and legal solemniser who offers loving guidance to plan a ceremony to suit you and your beloved’s unique tastes, experiences, and beliefs?
Reverend April specialises in extraordinary non-traditional weddings with a flair for the eccentric. April works well with couples of all ages and backgrounds, including LGBTQIA couples and blended families. Set up a FREE no-obligation consultation to discuss your big day and receive a quote!
