I’ve been writing my blog (almost!) every Tuesday for a dozen years now. True, most of these have been celebration-related, but I’ve also done quite a few for my funeral website. It’s difficult to be sure, but the amount of effort I put into writing the blogs doesn’t correspond to reach or response. So, although I’m not going to rule out ever writing any more blogs, this will be my last attempt for the foreseeable future.
I’m still going to carry on with my ceremonies for a while longer. But don’t worry! You’ll be informed, if I decide to hang up my cape and gown for good!
It has become a bit harder to find original things to write about. Researching and composing have always been enjoyable, but are not always straightforward. However, I have enjoyed the contacts I made, whether client or celebrant or supplier.
Having a sense of humour is a very important asset for the successful celebrant. A thick skin has proved useful on a couple of occasions too! I have met some wonderful people, but also some who were, let’s say, hard work. Among them, a couple of bridezillas!
Most of the ceremonies I have conducted have been joyous, spiritual events. But not all the weddings I have been booked for were successes! I can think of two which fell short. In one case, the groom was caught in flagrante delicto a week or so before the wedding! The second example was even more tragic. The wedding itself turned out splendidly, but, before they left for honeymoon, the bride learned of the groom’s repeated and prolonged infidelities. The marriage didn’t go well …!
What has also amazed me is how much I am (sometimes) taken for granted. People make last-minute changes, but don’t think to inform me. (I’m only the person who’s totally exposed when things go wrong …!)
I’ve been privileged to work with some wonderful people and in some fabulous venues. I’ve been sent abroad – Cyprus was a revelation to me. I should also have conducted a wedding in Lisbon, but COVID put paid to that, unfortunately. I also had a delightful time in Guernsey, conducting a mixed-faith wedding. All expenses paid, of course. (I think Guernsey counts as ‘overseas’?)
So perhaps you can understand that I am not in a hurry to leave this work behind. Now that blogs have become a bit of a chore, I intend to focus on the areas that I enjoy more. I’m not ruling out further blogs, but I’ll write them on my terms.
To those who have followed and supported me over the past decade or so, a warm and hearty “thank you”. And remember, I’m still here, if you want to chat.
photo: Matt Penberthy