A little bit of history
It's a simple story. 14 years ago I came back from a family member's wedding frustrated that I hadn't heard a single word of the ceremony. The sweet little old lady leading the wedding, seemed to be in it more for something interesting to do in her retirement, rather than a role she had a natural aptitude for. She often looked a bit lost and flustured as her big plastic folder flapped in the wind...
I returned home and relayed the disappointing experience to my good friend Jessica, who then asked me, "Is it something you would do one day?"... "Yes" I considered "Maybe when I'm old and wise".
A few months later, Jessica was proposed to by her long time partner.
She then proposed to me - that I apply to become a celebrant immediately so I could marry them in six months. I investigated and found that once approved I would then be the youngest celebrant in the city by 15 years!
With my 4 years of professional vocal training (at Toi Whakaari), my talent for creative writing and my love of love, it was indeed a good fit.
Surprisingly, once Jessica shared on her FaceBook that I was to be her celebrant, multiple friends-of-friends and acquaintances came out of the woodwork seeking my services. Before I knew it I'd done four weddings already in the lead up to Jessica's big day.
14 years later, I have performed over 700 weddings and consider myself a seasoned professional but with a relaxed, friendly approach.
You'll no doubt notice amongst the photo album that along with my hair changing often over the decade, I've also had the wonderful experience of officiating weddings while pregnant. I was quite happy to have a good excuse to buy more celebrant dresses!
My son Sterling was born in May 2018 and my wee daughter Charlie was born in November 2023. I am currently engaged to a wonderful man, Ramsay, who brought with him two daughters, Alessia and Sophia. So together we are a modern family of six and I absolutely love being a Mum and Stepmum.
I am also the author of the popular weaning storybook for toddlers "Booby Moon" - available on Amazon.
I began my adult life as a professional actor and am still working in the film industry as a Casting Director for NZ film and TV.
You can check out that other side of me at www.yrcasting.nz