ThePROCESS
Barbara James- Bartle.
An experienced marriage celebrant. Examples of ceremony are not displayed on this site , as each is personal and exclusive. We all speak words of love differently. Although my own local area is Auckland I can conduct marriages anywhere in New Zealand at your request. I invite overseas visitors and NZ residents to take advantage of this magnificent country in a venue or location of your choosing for your special occasion. I am a professional Celebrant and have a good clear voice. My approach is relaxed. A four-year residency in the US has enabled me to heighten my skills creating ceremony for a large variety of occasions both in the US. and the UK. Australia & of course New Zealand
The Four Steps
One - Initial Interview
We meet for an initial interview of about half an hour to an hour (no charge). This is very relaxed, I listen to what you would like and, if you are not sure, then I offer ideas. The most important thing is that you are comfortable with me. It can be such a challenge to ask a relative stranger to be part of such a special moment with you. I can guarantee that by your wedding day.. we certainly will not be strangers!Two - Creating Your Ceremony
Once confirmed, we get together again to compile your actual ceremony. I have many ideas and resources, and a simple structure to guide you so we create together a wedding that is personal for you both. A week after our compiling session, you receive your ceremony by email. This then gives you the opportunity to have some time on your own to reflect on the ceremony, and make the relevant changes. We stay in touch by phone or e mail.Three - The Rehearsal
The rehearsal is usually a couple of days before your wedding day (depending on venue availability). I really encourage a rehearsal as this gets all the technicalities out of the way, allowing the focus on your wedding day to be the celebration of your love. During the rehearsal we ensure that the pieces of music you have chosen are the correct length, so you will not run out halfway through your entrance! Finalise where you wish to stand, where the bridal party will stand, where the sun will be, check out the wet weather cover etc.Four - The Wedding Day
I arrive at least 30 minutes before the guests arrive and remain after the ceremony until your initial photos have been completed.
What you need to do well before 'The Day' is...
Apply for a Marriage Licence..
Allow at least three working days for the application to be processed.
The licence is valid for three months.
Use the link below to 'Birth Deaths & Marriage'
www.bdm.govt.nz