We get to know Celebrant Kate Morgan
Bold, bright, and downright cheerful, that’s how we would sum up the nature of one of Melbourne’s more acclaimed Celebrants - Kate Morgan. In just 2 years Kate has married over 150 couples (that’s how popular she is), so we thought it’s time to get to know her a little better… you’ll quickly discover how wonderful she is.
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Tell us a little about yourself… I feel like all roads in my life - living overseas, a background in writing, small business, my deep connection to family and friends, have led me to becoming a Celebrant. I reckon I’m incredibly lucky to play such an important role in my couples’ most important day. Although, if you’d told me 5 years ago that this would become my passion, I would have said ‘you’re dreaming!’ I married my own beautiful husband 10 years ago, surrounded by all of our most special people, including our children.
Why did you become a Celebrant? There were a few synchronistic life events that led me to becoming a celebrant; first it was a significant health crisis, which made me realise I wanted to find more meaningful work. But mostly, it was Australia’s move toward marriage equality that inspired me. I really wanted to be a part of that change. Both of my parents are gay and I was brought up within the community.
Back when we were married, my husband and I decided to get legally hitched in a secluded marriage registry office because the concept of marriage between ‘a man and a woman exclusively’ was distressing to us both. We followed that with our REAL wedding day, where we were married by all of our people.
How long have you been a Celebrant for? Over 2 years. In that time, I’ve married over 150 couples.
Each celebrant is known for their unique take on a ceremony, what kind of wedding ceremony are you known to deliver? I feel ultra-relaxed in front a wedding crowd and like to connect with the guests as much as possible. I tell my couples that a good ceremony should feel like a bit of an emotional roller coaster, with some laughter and happy tears. But it’s definitely not a stand-up show. My weddings shine light onto my couple and bring everyone together in celebration. I aim to give all my couples their own little ‘Festival of Love!’
What’s your favourite piece of advice for newly engaged couples just starting out on their wedding planning journey? Enjoy the project – it’s likely to be the first of many you will undertake together. Do what’s right for you – that’s the most important thing.
In your opinion, is there such a thing as a perfect wedding? Of course, but that doesn’t mean it will necessarily be exactly what you expect either. Like anything, sometimes unforeseen circumstances crop up – a rainy day for instance. I prepare my couples for the unexpected so that they can remain flexible and open minded. It’s a bit like life and sometimes it’s the slight imperfection which makes something truly perfect!
You’re a popular Celebrant, that’s for sure. So how long in advance should couples get in touch with you so that they don’t miss out? Well, I am currently receiving some enquiries two years in advance! Yes, key dates book quickly, but it’s always worth getting in touch.
Do you have any favourite weddings? My favourite wedding is the one I am working on at the time. I think it’s really important to ‘feel’ the love in each ceremony and I make a point of getting a little bit vested in the emotions. When, and if that ever changes, I will be out of the game!
What is the most unique element you’ve seen added to a wedding ceremony? There are so many unique elements that I love. In fact, I give my couples a list of ‘21 Ideas For Something A Little Bit Different.’ I’ve had four-legged friends present the rings, singalongs, flash mob readings, but the one thing I that I haven’t seen (and am currently crossing my fingers will happen soon) is a couple choosing their Grandmothers as ‘flower girls.’ I love Grandmas!
And finally, what does marriage mean to you personally? I recently listened to a Ted Talk where it was suggested that love (and marriage) could be described as a ‘collaborative work of art.’ I love this idea because everyone’s experience of love & marriage is different, and it allows for individuality and growth. I love being married. My husband and I try our best to keep it evolving, with open communication and as little co-dependency as possible. At the end of the day, each marriage is unique and should be celebrated in a way that reflects that.
You can find Kate Morgan on the Mr Theodore directory. Click below to get in touch with her.