After changes to the Bailiwick of Guernsey Marriage Law in 2021 meant that you could get married anywhere you'd like on the Islands of Guernsey, Alderney local Annabel Finding took the plunge and applied to become an Authorised Civil Celebrant.
She now owns Finding a Celebrant, and has had two successful seasons conducting wedding ceremonies across Alderney. We spoke to her about her how she became a celebrant, and what she loves about weddings on our Islands.
When talking to Annabel, it is clear that she loves her job, and the success of Finding a Celebrant is a testament to the hard work and dedication she puts in to every single wedding.
Annabel’s speciality is nautical nuptials and seaside ceremonies. Each ceremony is crafted to reflect the couple in every aspect; with Annabel advising couples to choose their favourite spot on the island to get married. The Roman and Victorian Forts are popular, as are the sandy beaches and boats out on the water. Other couples have chosen to get married in their gardens or on their own land, adding a very special significance to their wedding location.
Luckily, all 14 of the ceremonies Annabel has conducted so far have been able to be held outdoors in their intended location, although she says she always has a Plan B up her sleeve to ensure that the couple has a perfect day, no matter the weather.
Annabel shared some of her favourite memories from the weddings she has conducted, including one occasion out on the sea: ‘It was quite rocky on a yacht foredeck moored in Braye Harbour in a force 5, but it added to the uniqueness of the ceremony and we all laughed so much as we hung onto the rigging that my jaw ached the next day.’
She also reflects that ‘the Alderney Train has been used extensively for transporting guests to the beach. On one lovely occasion, the bridal party arrived by train to the wedding venue. The train horn blew to tell the groom his bride was on the way. As they were alighting where there was no platform, they all climbed down a ladder in their long dresses - to much applause from the other passengers.'
With Finding a Celebrant, you can include an array of meaningful and fun elements to make your wedding ceremony perfect for you.
As well helping with the ceremony, Annabel also helps couples as much as she can with the other wedding details, using her contacts on the Island to assist with transport, cakes, flowers and more, removing some of the stress from planning your wedding.
All of the contacts that Annabel uses are based on Alderney, and so many sectors of the island are benefitting from the growing wedding industry. Annabel celebrates how ‘in true Alderney style, we all work together to make everybody’s wedding day exceed their dreams and expectations.'
Annabel loves being a celebrant and the success of the ceremonies that she has conducted can be seen in the happiness of her couples and their guests. Creating a personalised wedding means that you are sure to get your perfect day and it is bound to be a celebration you’ll never forget.
As a closing remark, Annabel reflects on how ‘as this season drew to a close I got out my sewing machine and have made wedding bunting for the 2023 season embroidered with the initials and wedding dates of all my couples. As I sewed each flag I revisited each wedding in my mind and thought how lucky I am to spread a little magic into people’s lives whilst promoting the wonderful island that is my home.’
You can find more about Finding a Celebrant here
