Karina Dion Celebrant

04/07/2024

25/11/2023

KAT & BAINE

There is something really sweet about officiating the marriage for someone you've known for 20+ years.

When Kat and Baine reached out to me, late last year, I was really excited to meet up before the wedding and reconnect and hear about their lives. Baine asked me straight up "So why are we here" I explained it was to build a bit of rapport before the day. His response was "Well, nothing has changed" and he was right. Nothing at all had changed.

Meeting Kat for the first time was like meeting with an old friend; she is warm, open, honest and kind and I could see the deep love and respect these two have for each other.

We laughed and laughed some more and then the conversation moved to robot vacuums and fresh mower blades and we knew we had reached a certain age 🤣

The journey to the wedding almost faced a hurdle. Both Kat and Baine as emergency service workers in the Rural Fire Brigade, were called to a fire just 8 weeks prior. Baine's quick reflexes played a crucial role, ensuring Kat's presence at the wedding.

The garden where the ceremony took place was filled with fire fighter roses🌹a touching homage to their shared commitment. Kat had mentioned they had these roses at home but they were yet to bloom. Perfect serendipity I say!

06/09/2023

A few weeks ago, I had the absolute delight of attending the annual trivia night at our kids' school. And let me tell you, just like the previous year, our table took the whole dress-up thing to a whole new level. We had a dedicated group chat, discussing our outfit choices, making last-minute changes, and. It's safe to say we absolutely nailed the dress-up competition, but let's not dwell on where we stood in the trivia itself. Hey, priorities, right?

Now, this year was a little different for me because I decided to contribute to the prize pool. I threw in a whole wedding package for the silent auction raffle. I must admit, my ego was doing a little jitterbug, thinking, "Who's going to bid on a wedding package, especially at a Catholic school event?" Well, surprise, surprise, I couldn't have been more wrong, and I couldn't be happier about it!

Towards the end of the evening, I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder, and when I turned around, there stood Kate with the most radiant smile. She enthusiastically announced, "We won your package!" We got to chatting, and as fate would have it, our kids are in the same class. I probably should've snapped a photo for the socials right then and there, but hey, there's plenty of time for that because there will be a wedding, soon-ish!

Now, you see, this wedding has been ten years in the making, and I have a feeling it's going to be nothing short of spectacular! Stay tuned for the journey of a lifetime! 🥂👰🤵💍

06/09/2023

A few weeks ago, I had the absolute delight of attending the annual trivia night at our kids' school. And let me tell you, just like the previous year, our table took the whole dress-up thing to a whole new level. We had a dedicated group chat, discussing our outfit choices, making last-minute changes, and. It's safe to say we absolutely nailed the dress-up competition, but let's not dwell on where we stood in the trivia itself. Hey, priorities, right?

Now, this year was a little different for me because I decided to contribute to the prize pool. I threw in a whole wedding package for the silent auction raffle. I must admit, my ego was doing a little jitterbug, thinking, "Who's going to bid on a wedding package, especially at a Catholic school event?" Well, surprise, surprise, I couldn't have been more wrong, and I couldn't be happier about it!

Towards the end of the evening, I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder, and when I turned around, there stood Kate with the most radiant smile. She enthusiastically announced, "We won your package!" We got to chatting, and as fate would have it, our kids are in the same class. I probably should've snapped a photo for the socials right then and there, but hey, there's plenty of time for that because there will be a wedding, soon-ish!

Now, you see, this wedding has been ten years in the making, and I have a feeling it's going to be nothing short of spectacular! Stay tuned for the journey of a lifetime! 🥂👰🤵💍

23/08/2023

SHELLY AND ADAM

I had the joy of officiating my very first elopement ceremony at the stunning Armarda Resort in Nelson Bay. Bringing along my wonderful Godmother, affectionately known as "Nanny poo" to my kids, to bare witness added an extra touch of magic to the occasion. Shelly and Adam envisioned a simple ceremony, one that truly spoke to their hearts and reflected their essence. And that's exactly what we created.

The ceremony itself was a blend of heartfelt emotions, authenticity, and an overall laid-back vibe that made it so intimate. Crafting and delivering those words felt like I was refilling my creative cup.

I made the most of my alone time and with a day this glorious I couldn't resist a swim. So, there I was, taking an impromptu swim in my sports gear. Sometimes, the unexpected detours are the sweetest.

There are moments in life that really fill your soul and refresh you- this was certainly one of those experiences.

07/06/2023

What makes my heart skip a beat, you ask?

Books, book chit-chat over ice cold beers and women in business.

Thanks for organising our celebrant bookclub 🥰🥰🥰

02/05/2023

Hey Facebook fam! I thought I'd share some fun facts about me that you probably didn't know:

I'm a die-hard cookie lover, but be warned, I have serious sharing issues. Blame it on being an only child!
I can be peer pressured into singing karaoke, but instead of singing crowd-pleasers, I'll go for the most snooze-inducing song on the list. You're welcome.
After a few beers, I become a self-proclaimed life coach. Just don't take my advice too seriously!
The photo I'm sharing was taken by my daughter. I followed her instructions to pose and look like a t**t, but the memory of that moment is still sweet.
You'll often find me dressed head-to-toe in thrifted clothes, but don't worry, my underwear is always brand new (I promise).
So there you have it, folks! What are some quirky things about you that your friends might not know? Let's share in the comments! 😂🍪🎤💁‍♀️👖

22/03/2023

SERGIO & SARA

On a beautiful but windy day in January 2023, Sergio and Sara married at Newcastle Beach!

Brazilians + Italians = awesome parties with the best foods!

The love story between this couple blew me away. Digital technology played a huge role in the development of the couples relationship, that digital platform being google translate!!

Sergio and Sara used googletranslate to communicate until Sara learned English. Can I say, thank goodness for smart phones! Can you imagine if this couple had to use the good old fashion language dictionaries to flick through and find the fitting words, not to mention stringing words together to form a sentence that had meaning!

30/12/2022

**NAMING DAY**

One of the greatest hopes a parent has for their child is to be loved and supported for who they are, for their passions, hopes and dreams to be encouraged and for the child to grow up with a sense of self respect whilst respecting others.

It was clear from the moment I arrived, Dominic had struck gold. The feeling of love and support was palpable as I observed and everyone interact in this beautiful community.

I asked Clarissa and Daniel how they chose the name Dominic and the criteria for choosing a name was simple.

1. First and foremost, both parents needed to agree on the name.
2. The name was not to remind them of someone they already knew.
3. Finally, it was important to maintain Daniel's family tradition and continue the 'D' theme boys born into the family.
The name Dominic ticked all the boxes.

I wish you all love, joy and prosperity in the years to come.

Thank you for entrusting me to create a naming ceremony for Dominic

20/11/2022

These two go together like peas and carrots! This line from Forest Gump pops into my mind when I think of this couple.

Ive known Natalie a very long time and yet the first time I met Dan was the first time I met the evolved version of Nat. A newborn Baby in her arms and yet she was as calm as a cucumber.

Very nice I thought... (now read that again with the Borat accent)

Watching them together, it was almost as though Nat knew she could finally relax and be herself around Daniel and know full well he would love and appreciate her just the way she was. I loved watching them work together in their home, even just making coffee for each other. The way they spoke of each other with the upmost respect made me think to myself - he is the one!

Love you guys! Thank you for asking me to be a part of your very special day 🥰🥰🥰

Cake and Sweets: Cupcake Espresso
Photography: .photography
Venue: The Ridge Estate
Music:
Dance: Your First Dance Co.
Bar: Brumby Bar
Food: