In Conversation With Melbourne Celebrant Marry Me Tee
With a deep-rooted commitment to personal connection, Tee’s approach to crafting bespoke ceremonies is as intimate as it is engaging, ensuring that each couple’s narrative is authentically woven into the fabric of their special day. From elevating energy levels with warm welcomes to infusing ceremonies with meaning, her unparalleled dedication leaves couples feeling not just supported, but truly understood, as they embark on their journey towards marital bliss.
Interview Alexander Ross
“…I want people to feel comfortable with me. While I don't take the honour of being their chosen Celebrant lightly, I also like to keep the process relaxed, easy and fun! ”
What inspired you to become a wedding celebrant, and how does your passion for storytelling enhance your role in a couple's special day?
I became a Celebrant at a time in my life when I felt incredibly unfulfilled. I'm an energetic people-person and I wasn't in a job that supported these aspects of my personality.
I am passionate about really getting to know my couples so I can tell their story in a way that helps them feel as close to home as possible and leaves their guests wanting more.
How do you approach crafting a personalised ceremony that reflects the unique personalities and journey of each couple?
My process involves a face-to-face meeting. I think this is an incredible opportunity to learn about my couples as individuals - not just as a couple. I don't treat the meeting as an interview. For me, it's a very informal catch-up where I hope we can reach a new level of comfort, so when I am standing at the altar with them on their wedding day, they feel like a friend is there beside them for support.
I also have a Q&A in place which allows the couple to really consider the sorts of things they feel comfortable sharing with their guests in their own time.
My job is then to take what I learn and write something engaging which feels truly 'them'.
What elements do you believe are essential for creating a truly meaningful and unforgettable wedding ceremony?
I think connecting with the crowd and providing a very warm and engaging welcome is the best way to get the attention in the room for the duration of the ceremony. I like to engage with the crowd, ask them if they're excited and elevate that energy before the ceremony begins.
I also believe personal vows with plenty of 'ahh that's so them' moments make a ceremony really enjoyable and ultimately unforgettable.
In what ways do you collaborate with couples to ensure their ceremony aligns with their vision while also incorporating your expertise and creativity?
In-person meetings are where the magic happens for me. Following a catch-up, I find couples feel so much more comfortable to let me in. It builds connection which creates a space for openness and in return, allows me to really understand what would be right for them. I always reinforce my offer of unlimited contact with my couples because it's important they feel at ease and supported along the way, not just on their wedding day. I have a lot of back and forth with the majority of my couples over time.
How do you strike a balance between tradition and innovation when crafting modern wedding ceremonies?
I appreciate the structure of a traditional ceremony - i.e. a procession, rings, first kiss etc however I am a believer of couples doing what resonates for them - and also making a ceremony about the couple. We've all been to that wedding where the Celebrant fluffs on and on about the meaning of love. It's boring to me. All of my ceremonies are about the 2 people standing up there.
Can you share any tips or advice for couples who are seeking to infuse their ceremony with personal touches and meaningful rituals?
If my couples always envisioned a traditional element but it's not resonating for them, I always say scrap it! Your wedding should be full of meaning and purpose - and fun too! It needs to align with who you are as a couple though. I'm not supportive of a copy-paste-repeat traditions just because. Your wedding day should feel like home to you. Choose what resonates!
What do you believe sets your approach to wedding ceremonies apart from others in the industry?
I put a huge emphasis on getting to know people and learning about their story. When the vibe is right between us, the whole process is a blast. I want people to feel comfortable with me. While I don't take the honour of being their chosen Celebrant lightly, I also like to keep the process relaxed, easy and fun!
Lastly, what do you hope couples ultimately take away from their experience working with you as their wedding celebrant?
I believe everyone who comes on board with MMT and meets me in person understands that I really do genuinely care about their day and love what I do. I became a Celebrant because I thought it would compliment my personality but I've remained in this job, working weekends and taking calls late at night because it really does make my soul sing.
Marry Me Tee can be found on THEODORE by CLICKING HERE or on Instagram at @marrymetee
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