What is the key to choosing a great celebrant? How different can WE really be?
Other than all shapes and sizes, the range of celebrants is enormous – from very expensive to very cheap, very helpful to ‘do-it-yourself’, very organised to ‘rehearsal – what for?’
When chatting to people on the phone about my service, many times the first question I’m asked is “how much do you charge?” It’s kind of like asking how much will dinner be before you’ve ordered. I very rarely alter my two fees, but I like to hear what people’s requirements are, and then tell them about my service. And I’m so much more than ‘my fee!’
When comparing celebrants, I like to think that rapport would rate highly on people’s lists, followed by inclusions, followed by $. But I’m not sure it always goes in that order. So here are a few things to consider – to make sure you are actually comparing apples with apples:
- Does the celebrant you’re inquiring about already have a booking on your chosen wedding date?
(I attend one wedding per day – so I will not be late to your wedding or rushing off to another) - Do they provide detailed information to help you plan your ceremony – and in what form – hard copy or digital?
- How many meetings will you have with them?
- Do they provide a rehearsal included in their package or does it cost extra?
- Do they have a top quality sound system to ensure all guests can hear your ceremony?
- Do they have both a headset (for the celebrant) and hand held (cordless) microphone for you?
- Do they provide you with a beautifully presented copy of your ceremony?
- How long before your ceremony do they guarantee to arrive? (do they do soundcheck before guests arrive etc)
- Do they belong to celebrant associations and if so, how many?
- Are they well presented, professional and happy, and is attention to detail important to them?
Of course price matters. But once you take into account all the other factors, sometimes paying a little more is worth the peace of mind. Two great quotes come to mind:
“Remember, you get what you pay for”
and
“The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten”
I estimate that with ‘fully personalised’ weddings, my hours extend to approximately 20 – 25 hours work. I consider my fees to be mid-range when compared on a scale to the full extent of the celebrant industry. But above all, my fees are fair.
You have 100% of my attention, my excitement and enthusiasm!