Celebrant GC- Laura Callaghan

19/01/2024

Hey friend,

have you ever been worried or are you worried about overspending on your wedding? Well you are not alone! I'm here to help! Here are three ways to avoid overspending and ensure you have a realistic budget for your wedding:

1. Determine your financial capacity: Before planning any aspects of your wedding, determine the maximum amount you and your partner can afford to spend. Consider your savings, income, and other financial obligations. From there, decide how much of that total amount you are willing to allocate to your wedding.

2. Prioritise your must-haves: Sit down with your partner and discuss what elements of the wedding are most important to you. These must-haves may include your venue, catering, photography, or other expenses. Allocate the budget accordingly and consider compromising on other, less important expenses.

3. Research and compare prices: Don't settle for the first vendor you find. Research and compare prices among several options to ensure you are getting the best deal. Create a list of pros and cons for each vendor and decide which option fits within your budget.

By taking these steps, you will be well on your way to setting a realistic budget for your wedding and avoiding overspending. Good luck!

18/01/2024

17/01/2024

16/01/2024

You won't believe what an amazing gig it is being a celebrant for couples. I truly love my job!

I'm often asked if my couples could give me a little something as a thank you for being their Rockstar celebrant. And let me tell you, I'm always grateful and say that sharing a few photos is more than enough. But these cheeky couples of mine keep surprising me. And let me tell you, this gift one couple got me in 2023 takes the cake!

I mean, I'm not your average celebrant. I'm like more of a rainbow and unicorn pole dancing kind of celebrant (apparently he he he (I love it))! The fact that I could make someone's days a bit more amazing by bringing that extra dose of magic, fun, and pure joy is so special.

So, if you have a celebrant who's worthy of this epic gift, you better check it out right here: https://creategoodcreations.etsy.com/au/listing/1637507572/celebrant-thank-you-gift-celebrant-thank - I honestly want all the colours now and invite all my friends over for a unicorn pole dancing high tea LOL

I'd love to hear from any of my celebrant friends out there what was something they got from a couple that made the top gifts list?

xoxo
Laura

15/01/2024

FREE STUFF!!!

I've been working hard behind the scenes to give you some great value that will make a different and your wedding in the BEST way.

So I've come up with a little learning guide that you can give or share with anyone you have asked to give a speech at your wedding.

It's designed to guide your in how to deliver a speech, by giving them all the necessary and to help them deliver a speech that will leave a lasting impression on you and all your wedding guests.

This little guide is priceless!

You can get your free copy here: https://www.celebrantgc.com.au/post/free-course-how-to-deliver-write-a-wedding-speech-effectively

14/01/2024

Here is 5 ways to do this...

1. Write your own .

2. Incorporate meaningful .

3. Display a photo gallery.

4. Choose meaningful .

5. Celebrate your .

Can you share some other ways?

13/01/2024

/ Emcee Trade Secret

One of the key tricks of the trade as an MC is to know your audience like the back of your hand. And by "knowing your audience," I don't just mean knowing their names and where they're from. I'm talking about understanding their vibe, their sense of humour, and their energy levels. After all, you want to deliver jokes, stories, and a tone that are just right for them. So here are my top three ways to gauge the audience during a wedding reception.

1. Read the room: Keep those keen skills in high gear. As you mingle and interact with the guests, take note of their reactions to different moments during the reception. Are they laughing at the speeches? Tearing up during heartfelt moments? Or are they busting some epic dance moves on the floor? Pay attention to their body language, expressions, and engagement levels to get a feel for what's working and what might need a little tweak.

2. Have a yarn (or two): Make the rounds and strike up with the guests. Casual chats can give you insights into their personalities, interests, and even funny stories about the couple. Ask them questions about what they're enjoying most about the day and listen to their responses. You might uncover some fun tidbits that can inform your approach and help you connect with the crowd on a whole new level.

3. Adapt on the fly: Being able to adjust your jokes, stories, and overall tone in real-time is an essential skill for an MC. Keep a close eye on how the audience responds to your initial and adjust accordingly. If you crack a joke that falls a bit flat, don't sweat it. Just pivot and try a different approach. Maybe they're a lively bunch who appreciates some cheeky banter, or perhaps a heartfelt and sentimental approach works better. Remain flexible and be prepared to switch gears to keep the crowd engaged and entertained.

I always remind myself that being an MC is all about connecting with the guests and creating an atmosphere that fits their unique spirit. So, if you ever have to take on this role- take the time to read the room, have a yarn with the crowd, and adapt on the fly.

12/01/2024

2024 Wedding Trend.

It's time for the standing wedding parties to step aside and make way for the seated wedding party phenomenon! Picture this: your best mates, your crew, all comfortably seated in the first few rows, watching the magic unfold as you say "I do".
Not only does it add a touch of elegance and intimacy to the ceremony, but it also allows your bridal party to truly soak in the moment alongside you. They can sit back, relax, and be fully present as you embark on this amazing journey. It's all about creating an experience that's authentic and enjoyable for everyone involved. So that is why this is a hot trend for 2024 - your wedding party having a front-row seat to witness your love story unfold?

11/01/2024

A is more than just choosing a name for the little one. It's a chance to officially welcome the little one into the family and your community.

It's a beautiful and significant celebration where parents, friends and family members gather together to acknowledge the arrival of the , show love and support to the parents, and bless the bub with good wishes for their future.

A baby naming ceremony is not restricted by any religious or cultural tradition, which means it can be tailored and personalised to suit the family's values and beliefs. It's a fantastic opportunity for the parents to express their hopes and dreams for their child and to make a public declaration of the love they have for their little one.

It's also a great chance to bring families and friends together, to share in the joy and happiness of the occasion and to create lifetime memories. The celebration can be as casual or formal as the parents want, and can be held in any location that has meaning to the family.

baby naming ceremonies are a wonderful way to .

If you want to find out more or have any questions about these ceremonies feel free to DM me.

10/01/2024

" is not about how fast you can go, but how well you can . Starting early gives you the to make informed decisions and plan meticulously, ensuring that every step you take is purposeful and impactful."
Your isn't a race, rather a journey to enjoy!

09/01/2024

I've often heard "that you will know when you've found the right celebrant because of a feeling you get" but from my side as a celebrant I know I've found the right couple when we just start talking and laughing like we've know each other for years.

08/01/2024

NEW ALERT!!!
and this one is for all the couples out there.

Check it out here: https://www.celebrantgc.com.au/post/newly-engaged-let-s-get-started

07/01/2024

Happy Anniversary January Couple's!!

06/01/2024

or short-term memory 🤣🤭😉

Love a good

05/01/2024

**FREEBIE ALERT**

Planning a can be a wild ride, but with a little bit of , a whole lot of love, and a kick-ass team of vendors, your special day will be one for the books.

That's why starting the journey on the right path is priceless. But I hear you, "where do you start?"

Well I've got your back. To get you on the right track I have this just for you! No sign ups, no number, no need to sell your soul, this is my 'Happy Engagement' gift from me to you.

To get your FREE Newly Engaged Checklist head here: https://www.celebrantgc.com.au/post/newly-engaged-let-s-get-started

Be sure to let me know how it helps with your planning!
xoxo
Laura

04/01/2024

Hey friend!

Can you believe we're about to embark on a wild journey of the next 12 months, 52 weeks, or 363 glorious days? I don't know about you, but I've got some major biz goals that are gonna make happen!

1. Celebrant Great
Oh, you better believe it, mate! I'm gonna keep offering you the crème de la crème of professional celebrant services. We're talking about celebrant-ing like a boss and making your special day absolutely unforgettable. Get ready to experience greatness!

2. Giveaways
Hold onto your hats, because I've got some seriously awesome giveaways lined up just for you! I've joined forces with some incredible collaborators to bring you sweet treats and amazing little tools that will turn your wedding planning journey into a kick-ass adventure. Get ready to be showered with goodies!

3. More BTS
Get ready to peek behind the curtain and see what really goes on in the life of a celebrant. I'm swinging those doors wide open and inviting you to join me on a wild ride. You'll see weddings from my perspective, gain insight into why I do what I do, and learn all the secret sauce.

4. Helpful Tips
Oh boy, oh boy, do I have an absolute treasure trove of tips coming your way! From nifty wedding hacks to sage advice on navigating the twists and turns of planning, I'm here to be your guide and cheerleader. Together, we'll conquer any obstacles with grace and have a damn good time along the way.

5. Information Sharing
Buckle up, buttercup, because I'm all about sharing the good stuff! I'll be dishing out helpful information left and right to make sure you've got all the knowledge you need to make your wedding dreams come true. I'm here to be your go-to source for all things celebrant-related, so stay tuned and get ready to soak up some serious wisdom.

So get ready for this incredible journey ahead and don't be shy invite a friend to join us for the ride. With celebration, giveaways, insider secrets, helpful tips, and a whole lot of fun, we're gonna make these next 12 months the stuff of legends.

Cheers to us, and let's dive into this adventure together! 🥂✨

03/01/2024

Hello friends!

Can you believe it's already the start of a brand new year? Man, time flies when you're having a good time! Now, I don't know about you, but I've got an inkling that 2024 is gonna be an absolute ripper of a year. How do I know? Well, let me tell you, as a marriage celebrant, I've got my finger on the pulse of wedding love and happiness. And the vibes for this year are off the charts!

2023 may have brought us some challenges, but hey, that's life, right? We've all experienced the rollercoaster ride of love, and sometimes it's the unexpected twists and turns that make the journey all the more memorable. But here's the thing, 2024 is gonna make up for all that and more. We've got a year full of love, laughter, and celebration ahead of us!

I've had the privilege of witnessing so many incredible moments of pure joy and genuine connection. And let me tell you, there's nothing more fulfilling than seeing two people come together to say "I do" surrounded by their loved ones. So, strap yourselves in, because this year, we're gonna make some epic memories together.

So, as we dive headfirst into 2024, let's raise a glass (or two) to the exciting adventures that lie ahead. Here's to embracing love, seizing the moments, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Cheers, my friends.

This year is gonna be amazing! Let's make it one for the books, together. 🥂✨

Photo taken by the uber talented Ant from

31/12/2023

On this day they were married!

30/12/2023

Ohhhhhh I want more of this!!!!

Couples wearing cowboy boots! Yeehaw!

What about you?

29/12/2023

On this day they were married.

28/12/2023

Mine... is below

Signs that imply that one of the couples doesn't want to get married. I know they do, they know they do and it's a good laugh yes but I've also seen this cut someone a bit too deep. Maybe this trend needs to go.

Do you have any others?

23/12/2023

Gold Coast Wedding industry Chrissy Party.

We had a great time catching up, sharing stories a day a yummy feed

Merry Christmas to all!

22/12/2023

Alright, check this out, today Friday, 22 Dec 2023 is the Summer Solstice. It's the longest day of the year for us southern hemisphere humans. How good is this!?

But don't just think of it as any old summer day. No, no, my friends, getting married on the Summer Solstice is like hitting the jackpot in the luck and auspiciousness department. It's believed to be a freakin' lucky day to tie the knot or to even be asked to be married. And let me tell you, the symbolism behind it is totally on point for a wedding celebration and well celebrating in general.

Back in the day, the pagans coined the term "Honey Moon." It wasn't just about sipping on sweet mead (fermented honey) under the summer sun. It was a whole tradition tied to the summer solstice! They believed that during this magical time, love matches were extra special and powerful. So a toast with mead was like sealing and blessing your love in the most potent way possible. How wonderful is that!?

So, no wonder that this day also marks the start of the "Engagement Season" - yes it is a thing! December, January and February are the most supreme when it comes to get engaged—and I can't say that I'm surprised. December brings with it feelings of thankfulness, families together and love which pushes through to that very special day in Feb - Valentines day. OHHHHH and let's not forget it's also a 'leap year' next year which means anyone who has been waiting too long for the question to be asked, may just drop to their knee and ask it instead!

So Happy Summer Solstice and a few months of love being in the air!

xoxo
Laura

21/12/2023

As we nudge closer toward the end of 2024 I just wanted to jump on and say a HUGE thank-you to all the couples I have gotten to marry this year; the couples that have booked me for 2024 and beyond; the amazing vendors I get to work with; the wonderful venues and coordinators I get to hang out with and; to all my industry friends/ family. This year has been by far the most amazing year because of you all! So THANK YOU!
What I do isn't a one person show. It's all about working with and through others and without the amazing community around me, I couldn't do it. So thank you to each and everyone that has crossed my path in 2023!

I may be a sole business owner but, at my core I am all about family. When a couples books with me or another vendor helps me out, I want you to know that you are supporting;
- A family of 5;
- A child with special needs;
- A family dealing with a serious health diagnoses;
- Specialist Appointments;
- Food on the table;
- Bills paid;
and much more.

I don't often talk about what's happening at home, there is a lot! But without the community and support around me I don't think I would get through it. Life is hard at the moment for a lot of people and if the last few years is anything to go by I feel it's only going to keep throwing curve balls.
It's through our resilience and strength that we've risen above it. It's making the time to be fully present in the moment and really capture and take in what is happening. And every wedding I'm at I make that my focus, because every couple deserves that.

So thank you for all the love and support and from my family to yours, I hope that this silly season will be one of those core memories you will hold on to for all the rest of your days, in the best possible way!

Hug all those you love a little longer and harder and, don't forget to smile.
xoxo
Laura

16/12/2023

Opps I'm a little behind but I want to celebrate this amazing couples anniversary this month