Consider the celebrant’s ……..

Association membership: Does the celebrant belong to a celebrant association or network?
Availability: Is the celebrant available on the date and time you have in mind?
Reputation: Does the celebrant have a good reputation?
Training: Has the celebrant done some training programs in celebrancy or workshops held by celebrant associations?
Experience: How much experience does the celebrant have in conducting ceremonies?
Personality: Does the celebrant have the sort of personality that you find attractive?
Attitude: Does the celebrant listen to your ideas and concerns? Is the celebrant keen to ensure they understand what you expect from them and that you understand what is required of you?
Equipment: Does the celebrant have or have access to appropriate equipment such as a PA system, computer and internet facilities, appropriate clothing, a reliable car, etc?
Location: Is the celebrant within reasonable travelling distance to the venue?
Fees: Is the celebrant charging a fee commensurate with the amount of work they will be doing?

Tips for choosing a Top Celebrant:

• Check to see the celebrant is a member of a celebrant association or network. Such celebrants are more likely to be up-to-date with current legal information and trends in the profession.

• Phone interviews can tell you a lot about the celebrant's attitudes and values, as well as their speaking voice which is an “important tool of trade”. Information from their websites can also assist. Usually you will find answers to many of the questions above from either.

• Don’t see lots of celebrants. It is a waste of your time and theirs. You have extra information as you interview more celebrants, and so are not judging from the same base.

• It is best to do your homework, before you spend time interviewing face to face.

• Short list two, three at the most. See the person who you consider most likely first, and proceed to the second if you have any reservations.