Local celebrant, Claire Mountain gives us her top tips for choosing a celebrant

"Choosing a celebrant to officiate at your wedding blessing, renewal of vows, or any other commitment ceremony will not disappoint you. Celebrants have the luxury of being able to conduct bespoke ceremonies wherever and whenever they like. We are an award- winning company here in Wales that help couples from all walks of life to achieve their dream day their way. Here are some of my top tips for finding the perfect celebrant:

"Are they trained, and if so, who was their training provider? You can ask for proof of a diploma from the NOCN, which is the only nationally recognised qualification.

"Is your celebrant associated with the Association of Independent Celebrants (AOIC)? This association regulates, monitors and encourages celebrants to continue with the CPD training.

"Is your supplier insured? All celebrants should have not only public liability insurance of over five million but also public indemnity of five million.

"Does your venue know your chosen celebrant, or could they recommend one they have worked with before that does a good job?

"Do they have a website, where you can view feedback from other clients?

"Always meet and speak with a celebrant free of charge before you book their service. Once you have chosen someone who you feel fits the bill, make sure there is a contract in place between you. A good celebrant will never ask you for more than a booking fee upfront. Here at Mountain Celebrations, we only invoice for the ceremony 28 days before the actual date.

"After you’ve booked, make sure that they have sent you a full draft of the ceremony, this way should the unthinkable happen, you have a full copy of what was going to be said, and a friend or a member of staff from the venue can step in.

"The beauty of using a celebrant is they can officiate your ceremony at any venue, licenced or not, so go bold and chose something outside in this beautiful country of ours. Alternatively, have a second venue that you can use, such as someone’s garden, park, beach, or any indoor venue such as hotels, restaurants, or even a public house.

"Any good celebrant will have your vows printed out on a separate sheet to hand to you should you forget your words on the day."

Claire Mountain | Celebrant 
www.mountaincelebrations.co.uk