My journey to celebrancy
My path to celebrancy started with these two men: my grandad and my dad, both called James Rowntree, each of whom nudged me in this direction as they left this world.
When my Grandad died in 2015, the first person we arranged to take the service was — to be blunt — awful, leaving my family feeling not only unheard but also disrespected, and as though we were doing my Grandad a disservice in the process. Fortunately, we got a replacement before the service happened, but the experience stirred something in me, leaving me wanting to protect people from similarly tough experiences during their own biggest moments.
Fast forward a decade, and when my Dad died, I both wrote and delivered a eulogy at his funeral. It was a life-changing experience; the closest I felt I'd come to truly honouring this man who was so important to me. Not just that day, but for months to come when people would stop me to mention something in the eulogy that has stuck with them. I'd loved sharing my Dad's story with those who cared about him most and helping them to access their favourite memories of him in the process.
It was also my Dad who led me to consider the idea of wedding celebrancy when, after retiring from his first career, he took on a part-time role driving wedding cars.
Right through the brighter months each year, we would spend time driving out to churches, pubs and country houses so he could plan his journeys the following weekend. And when teenage me asked why he couldn't just use the sat nav on the day, he was aghast. "Ceryn, this is the most important day of a person's life and it's an honour to be involved. I want to make sure my part is as smooth as possible."
In the years that followed, as I spoke at friends' weddings, baby showers and christenings; and acted as a bridesmaid multiple times, I came to understand exactly what he meant. Just how much of a privilege it was to be able to play even the smallest part in the happiest day of another person's life.
The roots of my practice
When it comes to the ceremonies that are important to us, I believe that your needs are the most important thing of all, and so every ceremony I create starts the same way: listening.
Long before I write a word or make a suggestion, I want to know about the people and the stories that have shaped the moments we are honouring. For me, that's the most important foundation of all.
As a result, I'm always happy to leave my own traditions and belief systems at the door to provide the words and experiences that matter to you.
With that said, my own beliefs are earth-led and spiritually focussed. Outside of my work as a celebrant, I am a practicing witch who honours nature and the rhythms of the seasons in my own life, and work as a spiritual medium. However, the ceremonies I offer can be as spiritual — or not — as feels right to you.
If you'd like to know more about that side of my work, including the broader range of ceremonies I offer, you're welcome to take a look at cerynrowntree.com.
