Ellen Carey
BYRON BAY | TWEED COAST | GOLD COAST | BRISBANE | SUNSHINE COAST
Civil Marriage Celebrant
Hi, I’m Ellen
I must admit that it’s a bit strange to describe myself! But if you’re considering me as the lucky duck who gets to marry you, you probably want to know a little about me!
I’m a thirty-something, nature-loving, down to earth girl who loves a swim in the ocean and a bevvy at the local surf club. I’m happiest when I’m outside in the sunshine and surrounded by people I love (aren’t we all!).
Before entering the wonderful world of weddings in 2018, I worked as a solicitor in Brisbane. I’ve left that lawyer-life far behind me, moved to Northern NSW, and now I am living the dream with my wonderful fiancé Dylan and our dog Frankie at beautiful Cabarita Beach.
I know how it feels to be head over heels in love! Here is Dyl and me at one of our favourite places, Fingal Head NSW, captured so beautifully by the incredible Sam Wyper Photography.
My WHY
To marry my Mum!
When my Mum got engaged to my (now) step-Dad, I volunteered to help them find a celebrant for their upcoming wedding, and it was trickier than I thought!
It was a bit overwhelming trying to wade through a sea of celebrants and find someone who was the right fit. They had both been married before and wanted a wedding that wasn’t very traditional; something intimate and special, but also laid-back, relaxed and fun; a true celebration of their love and the joining of their families.
It also just felt a little weird having a stranger play such an important role in such a private moment for our family. Not to mention, the idea of being the person to marry my Mum filled me with so much joy and excitement!
So, long story short… in 2018 I obtained my Certificate IV in Celebrancy, applied to the Attorney-General’s Department, became registered as an authorised civil marriage celebrant, and I married my Mum!
My Mum’s wedding is one of my most cherished memories.
Key takeaways
-
With a previous career in law, I am a confident advocate in high-pressure situations. I actually love public speaking (weird I know!), and consider myself to be a professional presenter and passionate storyteller.
I have invested in top of the range audio equipment—including a Bose battery-powered PA (no separate power source required) and a Sennheiser wireless microphone— so you can rest assured that your ceremony will be heard loud and clear by all of your guests.
I also genuinely love getting to know people, which makes me comfortable in new social situations. Whether it’s your other wedding vendors, grandma, bridal party, or your dog, I get on with everyone. No matter who I am dealing with, I will always greet everyone with a warm smile, my friendly nature and always communicate in a kind and respectful way.
-
That’s years and years of experience as a marriage celebrant - from tiny elopements, to the wildest of parties, and everything in between! I have honed my craft, observed what works (and what things don’t!) and I have the confidence that only comes with years of doing what you love!
-
Something I often hear from guests after my ceremonies is “it’s like you’ve known them for years!” and that really is the goal for me.
I will be a calming and organised presence, hyping you up while easing any nerves, and sharing your story in a way that feels authentically you.
(And a warning, I love staying in touch after the big day, and so we may end up being friends for life!)
-
Your ceremony should be a special, significant, exciting celebration to genuinely look forward to and enjoy! (And not something to just rush through!)
I am here to hold the space for you to celebrate and savour the moment you commit to spending the rest of your lives together. After all, it’s a huge deal in the history of your lives, and the reason you’re getting married!
Want to know more?
Fill out the form below or shoot me an email hello@honeybeecelebrancy.com.au and I will get back to you ASAP!