Beyond The Ceremony: Modern Celebrancy. Unfiltered.

• Beyond The Ceremony Podcast Episode 13: The Relationship Between Celebrants and Photographers

  Ever wondered about the relationship between celebrants and photographers and what really happens when a wedding photographer and a celebrant work hand in hand? In this episode of Beyond The Ceremony, host Laura Crockett is joined by the brilliant Jodie Hurd Photography, a UK wedding photographer who has captured over 500 love stories with her timeless, heartfelt style. Jodie reveals how her unobtrusive, romantic approach puts couples completely at ease, allowing them to soak in every tear, laugh, and unforgettable detail. She shares how important it is to build a relationship with celebrants as well as what it’s like working with celebrants, from relaxed, personal ceremonies that flow beautifully, to the small but powerful details like space, light, and movement that help create photographs couples will treasure for a lifetime. Together, Laura and Jodie explore the rise of celebrant-led weddings in the UK, why so many couples are moving away from the traditional registrar route, and the real magic that unfolds when celebrants and photographers collaborate seamlessly on the day. Highlights How a celebrant-led ceremony changes the atmosphere for everyone Why natural storytelling photography captures the true emotion of a wedding The little touches celebrants can bring to help photographers do their best work Why couples crave something more personal than a one-size-fits-all ceremony This episode is for you if You’re an aspiring celebrant looking to understand the wedding day from a photographer’s perspective. You’re a wedding supplier curious about creating seamless collaboration on the day. Or you’re someone who loves the idea of meaningful, personal weddings and wants a peek behind the lens. 🎧 Tune in now to hear Jodie’s journey, her insights from behind the camera, and her advice for anyone thinking about becoming a celebrant. 🌟 Enjoyed the episode about the relationship between celebrants and photographers? If Jodie’s words made you think, “This could be me”, but you’re not a celebrant yet, try our FREE quiz to see if this career is your calling. 💒 Beyond The Ceremony Podcast: Modern Celebrancy. Unfiltered. 💒 Everything you need to know about how to succeed as a modern celebrant. From top tips on how to create unforgettable ceremonies, to success stories from some of the best in the biz, we will give you a behind-the-scenes look into life as a celebrant. Hosted by Laura Crockett, Award-winning Celebrant, radio personality, and celebrant mentor at the Academy of Modern Celebrancy. Learn more about the Academy of Modern Celebrancy here. MEET JODIE HURD PHOTOGRAPHY: Jodie Hurd is a UK-based wedding photographer known for her romantic, heartfelt portraits and natural storytelling style. She captures every meaningful moment, the laughter, the tears, and the quiet in-between details, in an unobtrusive way that allows couples and their loved ones to be fully present. Blending timeless elegance with soft romance, Jodie’s work reflects both the beauty of the day and the unique love story at its heart. Her calm and genuine approach puts couples instantly at ease, so they can enjoy every moment while trusting that their memories are being carefully preserved. For Jodie, photography is more than just pictures; it’s about creating a connection, building trust, and giving couples the gift of reliving their wedding day for years to come. Website | Instagram | Facebook MEET YOUR HOST, LAURA CROCKETT Laura has been an independent celebrant for 5 years and absolutely loves it. It makes her so proud seeing how far she’s come in that time. Laura feels like she’s found her calling and is so excited to keep progressing and growing her Celebrant business! Laura creates all kinds of ceremonies, including Weddings, Funerals, Vow Renewals, and Naming Ceremonies. Before she was a celebrant, Laura was a breakfast radio presenter, so her happy place is either at the front of a ceremony or sitting behind a microphone! At home, Laura is married to Johnathan (a primary school teacher and her biggest cheerleader) and a mummy to two boys – Woody and Dougie. Laura is also a dog mum to Betty and Barney, the cockapoos! They can often be found curled up by her side when she’s writing scripts or lying by the radiator in the office when she’s on couples calls! Website | Instagram | Facebook

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• Beyond The Ceremony Podcast Episode 12: Student Spotlight with Graham Miller Ceremonies

  What inspires someone with 33 years in the British Army to also step into a world of love stories, goodbyes, and meaningful milestones? In this episode, you’ll find out exactly how Graham Miller of Graham Millar Ceremonies made the leap into celebrancy, the surprises he’s faced along the way, and the lessons he’s learnt that every aspiring celebrant needs to hear. Graham is a newly qualified wedding and funeral celebrant based in Colchester. His journey began after writing and delivering the eulogies for his own parents, a deeply personal experience that lit a spark and showed him how powerful words can be at life’s most emotional moments. Today, alongside his military career, he’s creating ceremonies that are heartfelt, authentic, and completely unique to the people they honour. Highlights What it’s really like balancing celebrancy with a full-time career The importance of empathy, support, and community as a new celebrant How Graham found his confidence with his very first ceremonies Why finding a niche, like military funerals, can set you apart The one piece of advice he wants every future celebrant to know This episode is for you if you’re: Curious about how to actually get started in celebrancy Already training and wondering what real life looks like after qualifying Looking for encouragement from someone who’s walked the same path Interested in turning your own life experiences into meaningful work If you’ve ever wondered whether you’ve got what it takes to be a celebrant, Graham’s story will give you the reassurance, inspiration, and practical insight you need. 🌟 Enjoyed the episode? We’d love it if you could leave a five-star rating and review on Apple or Spotify. It really helps other future celebrants find the podcast. Still exploring if celebrancy is right for you? Take our quiz to see if this path might be the perfect fit. 💒 Beyond The Ceremony Podcast: Modern Celebrancy. Unfiltered. 💒 Everything you need to know about how to succeed as a modern celebrant. From top tips on how to create unforgettable ceremonies, to success stories from some of the best in the biz, we will give you a behind-the-scenes look into life as a celebrant. Hosted by Laura Crockett, Award-winning Celebrant, radio personality, and celebrant mentor at the Academy of Modern Celebrancy. Learn more about the Academy of Modern Celebrancy here. MEET GRAHAM MILLAR CEREMONIES Graham is a newly qualified Wedding and Funeral Celebrant with over 33 years of service in the British Army. Based in Colchester, he brings a wealth of public speaking experience and a deep passion for creating ceremonies that are personal, unique, and truly reflective of the people they celebrate. Inspired by writing and delivering services for his own parents, Graham is committed to helping families and couples mark life’s milestones with warmth, meaning, and individuality. Instagram MEET YOUR HOST, LAURA CROCKETT Laura has been an independent celebrant for 5 years and absolutely loves it. It makes her so proud seeing how far she’s come in that time. Laura feels like she’s found her calling and is so excited to keep progressing and growing her Celebrant business! Laura creates all kinds of ceremonies, including Weddings, Funerals, Vow Renewals, and Naming Ceremonies. Before she was a celebrant, Laura was a breakfast radio presenter, so her happy place is either at the front of a ceremony or sitting behind a microphone! At home, Laura is married to Johnathan (a primary school teacher and her biggest cheerleader) and a mummy to two boys – Woody and Dougie. Laura is also a dog mum to Betty and Barney, the cockapoos! They can often be found curled up by her side when she’s writing scripts or lying by the radiator in the office when she’s on couples calls! Website | Instagram | Facebook

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• Beyond The Ceremony Podcast Ep 11: Authenticity and Being Your True Self with Miranda Ash

  Being authentic isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the secret to a thriving celebrant career. If you’re dreaming of becoming an authentic celebrant or looking to build a celebrant business that truly reflects who you are, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice to help you succeed.  Laura Crockett sits down with Miranda Ash, an experienced celebrant and respected AMC mentor with over 13 years in the industry. Miranda shares her journey from balancing multiple roles to becoming a full-time celebrant known for bright, colourful weddings and heartfelt celebration of life ceremonies. In this episode, Miranda explains why professional celebrant training and ongoing mentorship are essential for writing meaningful ceremonies and growing your business confidently. She also reveals how discovering your authentic celebrant style and clearly defining your ideal clients can help you stand out in a competitive market. Plus, Miranda busts the myth of market saturation and encourages new celebrants to focus on what makes them unique.  Whether you’re interested in weddings, vow renewals, or celebrations of life, this conversation offers valuable tips for building a successful celebrant career that lights you up. You’ll walk away inspired and equipped to be your true self, connect deeply with clients, and create ceremonies that make a lasting impact. Highlights Miranda’s path from coach to full-time celebrant and AMC mentor Why celebrant training and mentorship are crucial for success How authenticity transforms your celebrant business and client connections Tips for finding and attracting your ideal clients Why is there plenty of work for celebrants despite market myths How to confidently work with wedding venues and funeral directors Miranda’s one golden rule for new celebrants: be yourself 100 per cent 🎧 This one's for you if you're: People considering training as a celebrant and wanting authentic advice Celebrants seeking to develop their own style and client base Those interested in expanding into weddings, vow renewals or celebrations of life Anyone wanting to build a sustainable, meaningful celebrant business 🌟 Enjoyed the episode? We’d love it if you could leave a five-star rating and review on Apple or Spotify. It really helps other future celebrants find the podcast. Still exploring if celebrancy is right for you? Take our quiz to see if this path might be the perfect fit. 💒 Beyond The Ceremony Podcast: Modern Celebrancy. Unfiltered. 💒 Everything you need to know about how to succeed as a modern celebrant. From top tips on how to create unforgettable ceremonies, to success stories from some of the best in the biz, we will give you a behind-the-scenes look into life as a celebrant. Hosted by Laura Crockett, Award-winning Celebrant, radio personality, and celebrant mentor at the Academy of Modern Celebrancy. Learn more about the Academy of Modern Celebrancy here. MEET MIRANDA Miranda Ash is the creative heart behind Miranda the Celebrant, crafting quirky, joyful, and deeply personal ceremonies across Hampshire and beyond. From festival-style weddings and alternative elopements to heartfelt naming ceremonies, gender transitions, and farewells, Miranda brings warmth, inclusivity, and a sparkling sense of fun to life’s milestones. Crowned TWIA National Celebrant Winner 2023, she’s celebrated for her creativity, attention to detail, and ability to balance laughter with moments of deep significance. Whether vibrant and lively or reflective and profound, Miranda’s ceremonies are always tailored to reflect the personality, values, and stories of those at their heart. Website | Instagram | Facebook MEET YOUR HOST, LAURA CROCKETT Laura has been an independent celebrant for 5 years and absolutely loves it. It makes her so proud seeing how far she’s come in that time. Laura feels like she’s found her calling and is so excited to keep progressing and growing her Celebrant business! Laura creates all kinds of ceremonies, including Weddings, Funerals, Vow Renewals, and Naming Ceremonies. Before she was a celebrant, Laura was a breakfast radio presenter, so her happy place is either at the front of a ceremony or sitting behind a microphone! At home, Laura is married to Johnathan (a primary school teacher and her biggest cheerleader) and a mummy to two boys – Woody and Dougie. Laura is also a dog mum to Betty and Barney, the cockapoos! They can often be found curled up by her side when she’s writing scripts or lying by the radiator in the office when she’s on couples calls! Website | Instagram | Facebook

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• Beyond The Ceremony Podcast Ep 10: Working With Funeral Directors with Julie Sullivan

  Ever wondered what it’s really like working with a funeral director? In this episode, Laura Crockett chats with the brilliant Julie Sullivan, who runs her own family funeral business in the North Cotswolds. Julie’s been supporting families through loss for years, and she brings so much wisdom, warmth, and honesty to this conversation. They talk about everything from first phone calls with grieving families to how celebrants can build trust in delicate situations. Julie shares some really helpful tips on how to work alongside funeral directors in a way that feels natural, respectful, and truly collaborative. If you’re already working as a funeral celebrant or thinking about stepping into this space, you’ll love this chat. It’s full of heart, real-life stories, and useful takeaways. Highlights What families really need in those early conversations How to build trust quickly, even if they’ve never met you Why local knowledge can make all the difference The rise of hydro cremation and other modern options How fees are handled and what that means for you as a celebrant 🎧 This one's for you if you're: Training to be a celebrant or just getting started Curious about what it's like working with funeral directors Ready to build stronger connections in your local area Wondering how to support families in the most genuine way Interested in the future of funerals and how things are changing 🌟 Enjoyed the episode? We’d love it if you could leave a five-star rating and review on Apple or Spotify. It really helps other future celebrants find the podcast. Still exploring if celebrancy is right for you? Take our quiz to see if this path might be the perfect fit. 💒 Beyond The Ceremony Podcast: Modern Celebrancy. Unfiltered. 💒 Everything you need to know about how to succeed as a modern celebrant. From top tips on how to create unforgettable ceremonies, to success stories from some of the best in the biz, we will give you a behind-the-scenes look into life as a celebrant. Hosted by Laura Crockett, Award-winning Celebrant, radio personality, and celebrant mentor at the Academy of Modern Celebrancy. Learn more about the Academy of Modern Celebrancy here. MEET JULIE SULLIVAN Julie Sullivan is the founder and director of Julie Sullivan Funeral Directors, a family-run, independent funeral service based in the heart of the North Cotswolds. With a nationally recognised Diploma in Funeral Directing and years of hands-on experience, Julie is known for her compassionate, community-focused approach. Her team is dedicated to supporting families with honesty, transparency, and warmth, offering tailored guidance at every stage of the funeral planning process. As both SAIF and NAFD-accredited, Julie works closely with celebrants, ministers, crematoria, and churches to ensure each service reflects the individual needs of the families she supports. Whether meeting at the family home or in their welcoming premises, Julie’s commitment to continuity and care ensures every client feels seen, heard, and supported, before, during, and after the funeral. Website | Facebook MEET YOUR HOST, LAURA CROCKETT Laura has been an independent celebrant for 5 years and absolutely loves it. It makes her so proud seeing how far she’s come in that time. Laura feels like she’s found her calling and is so excited to keep progressing and growing her Celebrant business! Laura creates all kinds of ceremonies, including Weddings, Funerals, Vow Renewals, and Naming Ceremonies. Before she was a celebrant, Laura was a breakfast radio presenter, so her happy place is either at the front of a ceremony or sitting behind a microphone! At home, Laura is married to Johnathan (a primary school teacher and her biggest cheerleader) and a mummy to two boys – Woody and Dougie. Laura is also a dog mum to Betty and Barney, the cockapoos! They can often be found curled up by her side when she’s writing scripts or lying by the radiator in the office when she’s on couples calls! Website | Instagram | Facebook

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• Beyond The Ceremony Podcast Ep 9: Building Relationships With Wedding Venues with Tara Heath-Arnold

  What’s the first thing most couples book when they get engaged? The venue. Which means, if you’re a wedding celebrant, building relationships with venues could be one of the most valuable things you ever do for your business. Celebrant mentor and host Laura Crockett is joined once again by Tara Heath-Arnold (also known as Tara the Celebrant) to talk all things networking, visibility, and venue strategy for celebrants. Whether you're a newly qualified celebrant, still in training, or looking to increase your celebrant bookings, this episode is packed with insight into what wedding venues really want from the suppliers they work with and how to become one of their trusted go-tos. From cold introductions to becoming a recommended celebrant, this candid conversation lifts the lid on what it really takes to create strong, professional venue relationships that support your long-term celebrant business growth. If you’re dreaming of more referrals, better wedding day collaboration, and real industry connections, this is your behind-the-scenes roadmap. Highlights How Tara created a wedding venue strategy from scratch Why face-to-face connection still matters more than social media Tips for introducing yourself to venues with confidence What venues value most in a celebrant How to become a celebrant that wedding venues recommend Why wedding fairs and open days still matter How to improve communication with venues before and during ceremonies This isn’t about flashy sales tactics; it’s about building trust, showing up with clarity, and playing the long game in the wedding industry. Perfect for: Celebrants-in-training New celebrants building their business Experienced celebrants wanting more venue referrals Anyone looking to grow their celebrant business in the UK and beyond - our certification programs at The Academy of Modern Celebrancy are globally recognised! Enjoyed this episode? Please consider leaving a five-star rating on your favorite streaming platform and review to help more future celebrants find us and keep the conversation going. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Could celebrancy be your calling? Take our quiz to find out if you have what it takes and whether now is the right time to start your journey! 💒 Beyond The Ceremony Podcast: Modern Celebrancy. Unfiltered. 💒 Everything you need to know about how to succeed as a modern celebrant. From top tips on how to create unforgettable ceremonies, to success stories from some of the best in the biz, we will give you a behind-the-scenes look into life as a celebrant. Hosted by Laura Crockett, Award-winning Celebrant, radio personality, and celebrant mentor at the Academy of Modern Celebrancy. Learn more about The Academy of Modern Celebrancy here. MEET TARA After a long career within the financial recruitment industry, progressing from the position of Sales Support to Regional Director, Tara decided it was time to step away from the corporate world. She then completed a bucket list ambition to study for a master’s in English literature before retraining as a Celebrant in 2019. Since then, Tara has applied a multi-layered approach to building her business and, in the last five years, has developed some excellent relationships across the wedding and funeral industries. Tara is extremely passionate about her career within the Celebrant world and is not only an experienced wedding and funeral Celebrant, but she is also a champion and lead mentor for the Academy of Modern Celebrancy, a role that she loves. Tara lives in Malmesbury, Wiltshire, with her husband Jules, their two dogs Mitchell and Mindy, and their two Norwegian Forest Cats Zeus and Zelda. Website | Instagram | Facebook MEET YOUR HOST, LAURA Laura has been an independent celebrant for 5 years and absolutely loves it. It makes her so proud seeing how far she's come in that time. Laura feels like she's found her calling and is so excited to keep progressing and growing her Celebrant business! Laura creates all kinds of ceremonies, including Weddings, Funerals, Vow Renewals, and Naming Ceremonies. Before she was a celebrant, Laura was a breakfast radio presenter, so her happy place is either at the front of a ceremony or sitting behind a microphone! At home, Laura is married to Johnathan (a primary school teacher and her biggest cheerleader) and a mummy to two boys - Woody and Dougie. Laura is also a dog mum to Betty and Barney, the cockapoos! They can often be found curled up by her side when she's writing scripts or lying by the radiator in the office when she's on couples calls! Website | Instagram | Facebook

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