In keeping with the wishes of each couple, the ceremony is an affirmation of the relationship that we know already exists, but one that has real meaning and dignity for the couple and, through them, for us.

Marriage is a voluntary and full commitment to sharing one's life with another person. It involves enjoying the love and the meaning that can be found by being together, supporting each other's hopes and dreams, and overcoming obstacles together. It means that each must have the ability to give and to receive, to forge a strong partnership whilst respecting each other's individuality and it requires the willingness to forgive and to go forward in love and trust.

Who  am  I    ?

I have been a marriage celebrant for some time now. After a lifetime in the insurance industry, I retired early, and now spend my time working in my fairly large garden, looking after my chickens and goats, and doing a bit of woodwork in my garage. I have been married myself for nearly 40 years, and have four grown children and several assorted grandchildren. I am a keen follower of sport and politics, and enjoy good food and good wine and am a collector of single malt whiskies. As well, I have been a Justice of the Peace for over 20 years.

What  do   I   do   ?

I do weddings! I also do civil ceremonies and naming ceremonies, but mainly I do weddings. This means that I will be meeting with you several times to sort out what ceremony you want. I will be helping with any other things that may be worrying you, like finding wedding cars or photographers or flowers or music. I can help with venues and seating arrangements and caterers. I see my role as being available to assist with whatever is worrying you, so your wedding day will be a joyous and happy occasion.

Where  do  I  do  it   ?

I have taken weddings all over North Canterbury, Christchurch, and beyond. I have taken them in churches, halls, private homes, gardens, parks, beaches, bushland, garages, and even on one occasion, in a hospital room. Because I live in Canterbury, obviously most are somewhere close, but that doesn’t mean I’m in any way limited, so ask and I’ll let you know! A special area of interest is with ex-pats returning home for their wedding. Because I can keep in contact through email, I am able to do all the planning of the ceremony before you come home, and when you get here, we are all ready to go! I have also been involved in several “surprise weddings” where no-one except the happy couple, and me of course, knew what was going to happen. These are a lot of fun, but can be a bit hard on the “mother-of-the-bride”, who misses out on all the planning and the new outfit as well!

When  am  I  available   ?

When do you want to get married? I have no times that I am not prepared to take a wedding, as long as I am available. I am especially interested in mid-week weddings, but whatever time is right for you is okay with me. I’m a little nervous about the prospect of jumping out of planes or climbing high mountains, and I can’t ski, but if you have an interesting idea, let me know and I’ll tell you what I think.