Ceremonies in France

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Hi and bonjour, my name’s Gaynor and I’m a fully trained and highly experienced celebrant who’s passionate about life, love and laughter. I’m a bit of a romantic (but not too squishy) and I love a laugh so every ceremony is nice and relaxed with that all important sprinkling of humour.

At the heart of your ceremony is your love story: everyone wants to hear how you met, when you realised your partner was ‘the one’, what the proposal was like: was it all red roses, chilled champagne and magical moonlight or was it bracing breezes, lovely landscapes whilst dodging hill walkers on a mighty mountain top? I work closely with both of you so your ceremony is not only bespoke but also, just perfect. So whether you’re looking for a wedding ceremony that’s: informal, formal; traditional or contemporary, this is your day and we’ll make it as unique as you are!

I’m based in 16210 on the Charente/Dordogne border but I’m happy to travel further afield. So, please get in touch to check my availability, receive a quote and organise a chat. ( I do love a chat.) There’s no hard sell – that’s not my style. It’s just a chance for us to meet, see how well we get along, you can ask any questions you have and, for me, I can find out more about the sort of wedding ceremony you’ve always dreamed of.

For more information please do get in touch, I look forward to hearing from you.

Do you include a rehearsal in your fee?

No I don't. When you receive the draft I include the choreography of who walks/stands where. So all my couples don't feel they need one but if you really, really want one though of course I'll conduct a rehearsal for you (at a small extra cost)

Can we see the ceremony script before the wedding day?

Yes you can ....... and no you can't! We're a team so yes I email you a draft of the ceremony, which we work on together. However, there are a few parts that I keep secret until the day. An element of mystery and surprise only add to the day.

Will your ceremony feel like a real wedding?

Of course. In fact unless a guest regularly attended weddings they won't know the difference. When you stand facing each other and say your vows in front of family and friends, then you'll feel the joy of your marriage.

How long will the ceremony last?

I'd say a ceremony is about 25 minutes; that includes me telling your love story, a exchange of vows and rings. If you want to add in readings, songs and a ritual or two then add in another 10-15 minutes. The ceremony needs to be long enough to include your declarations of love and lifelong commitments to each other but also to build a sense of occasion. Please don't worry, everyone will be engaged and thoroughly enjoy the ceremony. Guests have told me they loved it even when they don't speak English!

Can we have family members and friends involved in the ceremony?

Absolutely. I love it when others get involved. I've had 'the mums' wrap the handfasting ribbons, nephews singing opera, cousins playing instruments and I've even had dogs involved as ring bearers or as escorts down the aisle. Everyone is welcome to the celebration.

Can we include symbolic rituals in our ceremony?

Yes. If there's one, or even two, that resonate with you, I'd be happy to include it. My job is to make sure all your chosen elements are woven together to create a natural flow to the ceremony, which culminates with my presenting you to your guests as husband and wife.

Can you legally marry us?

No is the short answer. Only the mayor, or his official, can legally marry you in France. Also there are residency requirements and you may need documents translated into French. So it's easier if you sign the legal paperwork in your own country before coming to France for the wedding you've always dreamed of.