Commitments & vow renewals
Celebrating love...celebrating life
The way John conducts vow renewals and civil unions reveal his life experience. His ceremonies are usually relaxed and always inclusive.
John understands your need for less 'show' and more meaningful words and actions. He will work with you to make that happen.
Most of John's commitment ceremonies take place in the Adelaide Hills and Fleurieu region but he is happy to travel further afield.
John also isn't adverse to a few theatrics – only the good kind of course. He conducts ceremonies in traditional venues like reception centres, parks. your garden or his...and also in unique locations:
- forests
- mountain tops
- deserts
- quarries
- farms
- boats
As long as it's physically safe and you have permission to be there, John will be there too.
Planning the ceremony
I can help you plan a ceremony that is about meaningful words and actions.
Our first meeting will help me understand your personal needs and unique circumstances. Then I can help you:
- develop the tone and style that tells your love story.
- suggest vows or pledges that are personal and sincere.
- help you include any rituals - symbolic, fun or simply memorable.
- include important cultural or traditional practices.
- help you choose music that doesn't break copyright laws.
- choreograph the ceremony so everyone knows:
- where they need to be
- what they need to say
- when they need to say it.
At our first meeting I accept a deposit of $200.
We'll review a draft of the ceremony at our next meeting and make any changes
At the rehearsal I will walk you through the ceremony and make sure everyone involved feels confident and comfortable.
Cost
Ceremonies start at $250.
A deposit of $200 is required at the initial meeting when you confirm that John will be your celebrant.
Occasionally, there are additional costs, such as:
- travel expenses - more than 40 kms from Balhannah.
- sourcing materials for rituals.
- researching unique culturals or traditions.
- extra meetings – more than four.
- ceremonies on public holidays.
On your special day
On the day of your commitment ceremony you will both be busy...and likely a little nervous. Relax, I've got it from here.
What I'll be doing
I arrive at least 30 minutes before the ceremony begins. I set up the sound system and work through my final checks.
I make sure:
- all the preparations are complete.
- the photographer, ushers and key guests are ready.
Just before you arrive – or both of you if you arrive together – I gather the guests and make sure everyone is in position.
Once you arrive and both standing in front of me, I welcome family and friends and we begin.
We end the commitment ceremony by introducing you to your guests as a committed couple.
Then it's time for you to celebrate!
And I pack up and fade quietly into the sunset...