Putting Humour and Personality into Your Ceremony

Hayley and Chris chose David to be their wedding celebrant for their fun and relaxed festival style wedding in Bradfield, Sheffield on the edge of the Yorkshire & Derbyshire Peak District. Photo: https://www.flyonthewallphotography.co.uk/

As a Wedding Celebrant, I believe a wedding ceremony should be as unique, joyful, and personal as the couple themselves. Many guests attending celebrant-led ceremonies are surprised by just how fun and moving the experience can be—especially compared to a standard registrar or church ceremony. Here, I’ll share a bit about how I work with couples to design a ceremony that’s filled with warmth, humour, and personality, making it an unforgettable part of their big day.

Bringing Out Your Personality

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is getting to know my couples. From the funny, serendipitous moment they met to the quirky details that define their relationship, I take time to understand what makes them unique. For instance, I've had couples share hilarious moments during our consultations—from the memorable mix-ups on their first date to silly habits that make them laugh every day. When these stories are woven into the ceremony, they instantly create a relaxed, genuine atmosphere where everyone feels included.

In fact, I often draw from these moments to craft a “love story” as the ceremony’s heart, using anecdotes that will resonate not just with the couple but with all their friends and family. Whether it’s a shared love for cheesecake that sparked their romance or the inside jokes they can’t stop laughing about, these moments remind everyone why they’re there: to celebrate two people who bring out the best (and the quirkiest!) in each other.

Steph and Adam chose David to be their wedding celebrant for their fun and relaxed wedding at Manor Lodge, Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Photo: https://www.victoriagreensmithphotography.com/

Warming Up the Crowd

As a Wedding Celebrant working across England and abroad, I know that many guests may not have attended a celebrant-led ceremony before. To make everyone feel at ease and to signal to them they are about to witness a ceremony to enjoy, I make a point to chat with guests as they arrive. I’ll often pick out a few guests who look like they’re up for a bit of fun and enjoy a tease and some warm humour with them. I will chat with parents of young children so they don’t feel worried or stressed if their child makes a noise during the ceremony. I will clearly signal to guests that this ceremony is one they can enjoy. It’s all about creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable enough to laugh, cheer, have fun and maybe even shed a tear.

When my couples want me to, I will suggest other playful elements like including some funny vows or to have a family member read a funny poem. And I’m always ready to roll with those unplanned moments, whether it’s a toddler speaking out or wandering into the ceremony space, a gust of wind adding a dramatic touch in an outdoor ceremony, or an over-friendly insect deciding to join us right in the middle of the serious bit! Having decades of experience working with children as well as having had three of my own, I know how to see the humour in these moments. I make them part of the experience that everyone remembers.

Elly & Simon chose David to be their international wedding celebrant for their ceremony on the island of Paros, Greece. Elly & Simon had guests flying in from all over the world and so they wanted their guests to be engaged and to enjoy the ceremony. Photo: https://sotiristsakanikas.com/

The Difference a Celebrant Can Make

When a celebrant leads your wedding ceremony, it’s not just a formality to get through before the reception begins; it’s an integral, enjoyable part of your day. Unlike more standard ceremonies offered by registrars & churches, a celebrant-led wedding allows every word, every gesture, and every interaction to reflect who you are as a couple. It’s about celebrating your love story with an authenticity that’s both touching and fun.

As a Wedding Celebrant in Sheffield and Yorkshire, I’ve been privileged to hear from countless couples after their weddings about how their ceremony was the highlight of the day. Friends and family often share how refreshing and enjoyable the ceremony was and how much they appreciated seeing the couple’s true personalities shine through.

Clare & Myles chose David to be their wedding celebrant in The Woodman Gastro Pub in Kirkburton, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. Venue: https://woodman-inn.com/

Ready to Create Something Unforgettable?

If you want a wedding ceremony that celebrates your story with joy, warmth, and a touch of humour, let’s chat! I’d love to explore how we can make your ceremony not only meaningful but unforgettable for you and your guests. Book a video call here.

Charlotte & Jamie chose David to be their wedding celebrant at their farm in Stocksbridge, Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Photo: https://www.tedandtortoise.co.uk/