New Zealand Report: ever been a celebrant?

*I've just landed back in Oz, and before I get back in to cyberland LOA writing, I thought I'd share some photos and stories from the trip. I just love a good wedding and this one was a pearler!

Ever been a celebrant?

Nope, me neither.

When Darren and Jane asked me to conduct their wedding ceremony, I was deeply touched and honoured. I've known the two of them for the last ten years: I hired them both for Outward Bound, trained them both, and worked alongside them for ages. They like to say I was the one who set them up, but really it was just a helping hand. They seemed perfect for each other straight from the beginning: both Kiwis (New Zealanders), loved the outdoors, and both absolutely gorgeous. So when it came to deciding who Jane went out with on her first course at OB, naturally I picked Darren. Long story short: they fell in love, had a fantastic romance, broke up under the pressure of working and living at Outward Bound, reunited four years later in Malaysia where Jane declared her undying love for Darren, and he reciprocated. Fast forward to November 3rd and their wedding day.

Aren't they gorgeous? And so in love!

Jane - the stunning bride gazing at her adoring groom

Daz - the adoring groom, happiest man on the beach

It was a glorious day for the wedding in a beautiful setting - on Taipa Bay, New Zealand north island. As for the celebrant part, I was nervous as hell, deeply touched, and managed not to cry through the whole thing. In case you're wondering, I'm not a licensed celebrant - they had a 'real' celebrant do all the official vows and legal bit. I did all the mushy stuff (which I totally loved).

Hurray! I love a good love story, and this one was a classic.

Me and my best friend's bub, Charlie, duties complete, ready to kick off the heels and party