Celebrant Offers A Personalised Ceremony

Illawarra Mercury

Tuesday June 19, 2007

ACCORDING to marriage celebrant Lorraine Lehman-Jones every couple is different and every wedding ceremony should reflect that individuality.

"I believe my trademark is in personalised ceremonies that are intimate, special and modern," she said.

Lorraine will work closely with the bride and groom to ensure the ceremony is exactly what they are after.

"I give you a complete choice with your ceremony. I am there to help guide you and make sure you are aware of all your options," she said.

Some of the special touches that can be included are a butterfly release, rose ceremony or a candle ceremony to remember a passed relative.

The celebrant also specialises in 'step' ceremonies where she involves the children of the bride or groom.

"A highlight for me this year was officiating at my ex son-in-law's wedding. My two grandchildren were attendants and his new wife made vows to the children - it was very moving and emotional," Lorraine said.

"My own wedding in May this year was also very emotional. My husband had lost two wives to cancer and my own children had lost their father, so when we were putting the ceremony together it was very important that we recognised all members of the three families.

"We were attended by my granddaughter and my husbands granddaughter. Our sons and step-son took part in a candle lighting ceremony in memory of their respective parents.

"I carried three red roses symbolising the three families. Grandsons passed our wedding rings along a ribbon to my husband while guests sent their blessings and best wishes. The ribbon was then tied around the red roses thus forever uniting the three families."

Lorraine says that during her studies at the International College of Celebrancy she learned the importance and power of using symbolism and ritual to evoke emotions and meaning.

"This was never more clear to me than during both of these ceremonies because I was myself emotionally attached. The two ceremonies were also psychological turning points for many who attended both weddings," she said.

Prior to the wedding Lorraine will sit down with each couple and discuss any ideas they may have.

By hiring a marriage celebrant couples also have the added benefit of choosing from a wide range of picturesque locations for their wedding.

Lorraine Lehman-Jones can be contacted on 0417 412 998.

© 2007 Illawarra Mercury

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