Hi, I'm Debbie Taylor
Canberra Celebrant
I’ve been happily married to Michael since 2006. I’ve married both my step kids to their partners – an amazing privilege! Our family includes 4 gorgeous grandkids.
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Being a celebrant is ‘Career 3’ for me and brings together much from my earlier careers (firstly as a teacher/Principal and secondly in the public service). I’ve always worked alongside others and my careers have all had a focus on people. I love thinking about symbols and rituals as well as words, stories and music that will make your ceremony unique and meaningful.​​
I love working collaboratively – this is your ceremony! That means I’ll listen to what you want, work with you, provide a draft for your comments and feedback and, finally, deliver it as we have agreed.
Your wedding day should revolve around you and your significant other. As your marriage celebrant in Canberra, I make sure that you are my focus for the day.
I only perform one wedding a day, meaning I am dedicated and passionate about making sure your special day is my priority and goes smoothly.
I am not in a rush to get to another wedding, as your happiness is my priority. With me, you can have peace of mind knowing that I am dedicated solely to making your ceremony a beautiful and unforgettable experience.
What to Expect When You Choose Me as Your Celebrant
​​Most importantly, on your special day, you are my only focus. I only book one ceremony a day, so that you are my priority on your day.
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Our first meeting is obligation free – to see that I am the right fit for you. It’s best in person (or virtual meeting) because connection is something more than what you can find on a website.
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We will discuss your dreams – what you want and importantly what you don’t want.
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I will take you through the legal requirements (you want a wedding, not just a party!).
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Once you chose me as your celebrant, I’ll draft a run sheet for us which details all requirements and timelines. It will include the legal timelines we need to meet.
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At our next meeting we will commence the legal documentation (don't worry, I’ll guide you through this).
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I’ll get you to send me information about yourselves (some reflections and answers to questions. This is what I’ll use when I draft your ceremony. I’ll also send you some guides for writing your own vows.
Photo by Tracey Lee
If you want ideas for poems, readings or songs I’ll send you a small selection as a starting point (who wants to go through my hundreds of resources – I’ll select some that I think meet what you are after and keep refining until you find ‘the one’).
I’ll send you a draft of your ceremony 4-6 weeks in advance and get any feedback from you. We will aim to have it finalised 3-4 weeks before your ceremony so that you can put it away and relax. I don’t want you looking at it the night before!
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If you are writing personal vows, I’ll make sure they work well together but the first time you will hear them is when your partner says them to you at your wedding.
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All the way through, I’ll be there to guide and support you. I’m available by phone or email, or if required we can meet again.
I’ll suggest a rehearsal, to ensure everyone who has a role in your ceremony knows what they are doing and when. The rehearsal helps make sure things go smoothly on the day, and also helps with nerves.
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Once your ceremony is over, while you are celebrating, I’ll head home and register your marriage.
I’ll guide you through getting your marriage certificate and changing your name if you plan to do that.