Diploma in Celebrancy – Self Assessed Assignment Module 3

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Questions are an enormous part of planning a ceremony and writing the ceremonial script.

It is important that the questions you ask are wide-ranging, covering all aspects of the practical, logistical, emotional and personal aspects. Here are some example questions you could have included:

What are the most important aspects of the ceremony to each of you?

This can help you to determine if there are specific elements or moments that are particularly meaningful, so need to be prioritised. Knowing what is most meaningful and important, will help you work out where compromises can be made around this!

How do you want to incorporate both of your families into the ceremony?

Given Mary’s family is small, while Mark’s is large, it might be useful to get a sense of how their involvement would be balanced.

Are there any specific family traditions or cultural rituals you would like to include?

This helps ensure you honour each family’s heritage and values.

What tone or atmosphere do you want for the ceremony? (e.g., formal, relaxed, romantic, light-hearted)

Understanding the desired tone helps in determining the language and structure of the ceremony.

What role does spirituality or religion play in your lives, and how should this be reflected in the ceremony?

Many clients opting for a celebrant led wedding may not be religious or spiritual. However, this will vary, so it is important that you check this.

What does marriage mean to each of you?

This question provides insight into Mary’s and Mark’s personal beliefs, and can inspire the wording of vows or readings.

How do you want to tell your love story during the ceremony?

Should their journey together be highlighted, and if so, how?

Are there any poems, readings, or quotes that resonate with you?

Asking this will help in selecting content that is meaningful.

If the couple are struggling to come up with any examples, you could ask them if they have any particular authors or poets they enjoy, or any songs that are meaningful to them.

This might help you source some options, or look through your resources to find options you have used before, that match the tone/feeling they convey.

How do you envision the exchange of vows?

Some couples like to write their own vows, while others might prefer to use a traditional option. Some may like a mix of both!

How much involvement do you want from friends and family during the ceremony?

The couple may have specific people they’d like to invite to do readings, give blessings, or participate in other ways.

Understanding their wants will help you structure the ceremony.

What music, if any, do you want to include in the ceremony?

You will need to factor in pre-ceremony, processional, and recessional music.

What would make this ceremony feel truly personal and memorable for you both?

An open-ended question like this is a great choice, as it invites the couple to share any other thoughts or ideas that haven’t been covered.

Were your 10 questions similar to the above? If so, you are on the right track!

Remember that all of your questions should open and wide ranging.

It is so important to find out exactly what the client(s) want at the beginning of any consultation so you know you are giving the ceremony they really want.