Author Archives: Susanna Jose

I just conducted a beautiful, small ceremony for A and P. They chose to combine a civil ceremony with elements and symbols from a traditional Persian Ceremony. I just loved it.  I even heard one guest say, ‘We should do some of this … Continued

Wedding days are fabulous – filled with happiness and optimism. No couple thinks their marriage will be one of those which does not stand the test of time. What’s more, I’m no expert, having had my first marriage end in … Continued

Nearly two years ago, I conducted a simple, legal, marriage ceremony for Sasha and Seang. Sasha’s family is from Canberra and Seang’s from Laos. They wanted to have celebrations which involved both families. That wish was fulfilled early this year … Continued

Below are some observations I’ve made as a celebrant at the weddings I’ve conducted over the past few years. Not all weddings are like those you see on TV shows or movies with large bridal parties, huge numbers of guests, lavish … Continued

Marriage equality is coming closer. Politicians know that most reasonable Australians want marriage to be legally available to gay and lesbian couples as well as heterosexual couples. Last weekend the Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull attended the Sydney Mardi Gras and marriage … Continued

I’ve just returned from my sister’s 60th birthday party. She held it in her own beautiful garden where her daughter was married eighteen months ago. Both events were fantastic. I was the celebrant at the wedding and a helper at … Continued

Couples opt for a simple legal ceremony or ‘quickie’ wedding for a range of reasons. These include wanting to be legally married before having a religious ceremony, a celebration overseas or travelling to countries where couples need to be married to … Continued

A huge thank you to all the couples and families I worked with in 2015. I love my job as a civil celebrant and it’s an absolute pleasure to share in people’s milestone moments – marriages, naming ceremonies,  renewal of … Continued

Nada and JB who are to be married on New Year’s Eve showed me a great idea today. They’ve made up a host of badges using their own photos, their favourite sayings of endearment and their quirky sense of humour. … Continued

‘Unplugged’ means no photographs or electronic devices during the ceremony (apart from those used by the professional photographer). I’ve performed a couple of weddings now, where the bride and groom have made a specific request for people not to take photos during … Continued