An Hour Before 'I do': What your celebrant is actually doing.

(While you’re Still in Rollers and Panic-Searching for Your Shoes)

Most people think a Celebrant’s job starts when the music begins. In reality, by the time you’re

walking down the aisle, I’ve already been on-site for a while acting as a part-time stage manager,

part-time roadie, and full-time emotional support human. I arrive sixty to ninety minutes before the

start, which sounds like plenty of time—until you step into the Pre-Ceremony Time Vortex: You

know the one: where 'five minutes' somehow takes half an hour, and the closer we get to the start

time, the faster the clock spins. While everyone else is caught in the whirlwind of missing

buttonholes or misplaced bouquets, I’m the one standing outside the vortex, keeping us all on track.

The Zero Hour essentials (aka My Mary Poppins Bag)

Whether we’re in a five-star hotel, windy woodland, or your backyard, I arrive armed for every

eventuality, which keeps the clock from spinning out of control.

The Ritual Goods: Candles, lanterns, sand, ribbons, and oath stones.

The Nervous Reader Special: Readings printed on heavy cardstock (paper shakes, card stays firm).

The Emergency Stash: Mints for the groom, tissues because someone always gets a dusty eye during the vows and a sleeve just won't do.

The Secret Weapon: A small wool mat: so you know where to stand without me whispering

directions like a spy.

Navigating the Vortex: The Check-ins

Who do I need to track down while the clock is ticking at double speed?

1. The Bride (The Masterpiece-in-Progress): I usually find the Bride right in the thick of the

vortex—robes on, champagne in hand, and surrounded by a glam squad. It is always a privilege to

see the bridal party in their 'backstage element'. I know that in just a few short hours, the

transformation will be so complete I’ll barely recognize the person I’ve been chatting with on Zoom!

My mission here is to secure the 'Holy Grail' (the Marriage Registration Form AKA The Green Folder),

the rings, and any sentimental items like photos or an Oath Stone before they vanish into the

wedding-day mist.

2. The Groom (The Anchor Check): Then, I hunt down the Groom to make sure he’s still breathing.

I’ll run through the 'Chairs Choreography' with the Groomsmen—making sure they know exactly

when to move the furniture so the couple isn't tripping over chairs during a Handfasting.

3. The Backstage Crew: Finally, I chat with the musicians, the photographer, and the venue

coordinator. We get on the same page so that when the music starts, the vortex stops, and the

magic takes over.

4. The Vibe Check

Once the logistics are sorted, I obsess over the "feel" of the room. I stand where you’ll stand. I sit

where your mom will sit. I move a vase two inches to the left. I move it back. I ensure the space feels

like a sanctuary, not just a room with chairs.

5. The Quick Change

Fifteen minutes to go. I disappear and perform a Clark Kent-style quick change into my ceremony

attire. A few deep breaths, a final check of my folder, and a big smile

.

By the time you see me, I’m the calmest person in the room—ready to usher your guests, reassure

your nervous readers, and finally get you two married.

So, who am I? I’m Tricia Hudson, and I believe that while your ceremony should be profound

and personal, the process of getting there should be a breeze. From managing the 'Green Folder' to

ensuring the Groomsmen are in the right seats, I’m there to handle the logistics so you can focus on

the 'I Do'. Whether you’re planning a woodland vow renewal or a hotel wedding, I bring the calm,

the cardstock, and the occasional emergency mint.

Ready to start planning your perfect ceremony? Contact me