Spring Most Popular Time To Tie Knot

Illawarra Mercury

Tuesday November 20, 2001

MICHELE TYDD

THE wedding day has changed over the years, with many couples thumbing their noses at tradition.

But one thing remains relatively intact, according to Russell Vale marriage celebrant Maurie Chapman.

Spring, he says, remains the season of romance and new beginnings and it's the time most people choose to tie the knot.

What has changed is that couples are more relaxed and the wedding venue can be anything from a ship to a remote bushland setting.

``Church weddings made up only 50 per cent of marriages last year," Mr Chapman said.

But regardless of locations, couples still need to invest a good deal of planning in the day to make it a success.

``My advice is for couples to start as early as possible to work out budgets and to set realistic targets for what they want," Mr Chapman said.

``When selecting a celebrant, seriously consider a long-standing practitioner who is well qualified and experienced."

Mr Chapman began his work as a celebrant nearly 15 years ago when he retired as a supervising engineer with Wollongong City Council.

He now is in demand for not only weddings but also baby namings, funerals and vow-renewal ceremonies.

Civil marriages, Mr Chapman said, offers the bride and groom dignity, simplicity and individual involvement.

He said giving up his weekends has been no sacrifice because he loves the work and the challenges it presents.