She then read an article in a woman’s magazine about someone who had become a celebrant in later life and this started her thinking that this could be the role for her – making ceremonies more meaningful, unique and personal.

This was followed in 2013 with Barbara being asked to perform a wedding ceremony by her friends Carol and Tom who were having an outdoor wedding party in Whitfield. They knew Barbara was experienced in presenting to an audience as this was part of her job as a Chief Exec but also when she was chairing magistrate panels in court.

This was a wonderful experience and endorsed Barbara’s thoughts about having a new career as a storyteller of people’s love stories, new life and those departing this world. As a consequence she researched the possibilities and became a heart-led celebrant.

Choosing an independent celebrant means that you are not limited to licensed venues, and have the freedom of enjoying your ceremony in the place of your dreams, including the outdoors. The ceremony can be religious, spiritual or secular. You can have ANY words, readings, music, or symbolism that is meaningful to you and your partner.

Each ceremony is unique and bespoke, according to the wishes of the client and can include rituals and embellishments that will ensure the event is inspiring, full of beauty, honesty and hope.
Barbara performs the following ceremonies:
Weddings (link to Weddings page)
Vow Renewals (link to Vow Renewals page)
Naming Ceremonies (link to Naming Ceremonies page)
Funerals & Memorial Services (link etc
Pet ceremonies (etc)

Further information about special rituals is available here but these include: hand fasting; ring warming; community vows; parent blessings, candle lighting.

Choosing an independent celebrant means that you are not limited to licensed venues, and have the freedom of enjoying your ceremony in the place of your dreams, including the outdoors. The ceremony can be religious, spiritual or secular. You can have ANY words, readings, music, or symbolism that is meaningful to you and your partner.

The following is included in your heart-led celebrant ceremony package but can be added to – the options are built around your love story and therefore are limitless.

Barbara works exclusively with Jesmond Dene House hotel in Newcastle who have both indoor and outdoor facilities for ceremonies. However, she also undertakes weddings at other non-hotel venues across the North East.

Please note:

The ceremony itself is not legal, and you will have to register your marriage by completing the legalities at your local Register Office.

Celebrant Fees

Fees are based on creating, writing and conducting your ceremony as well as whatever time is required in face to face meetings / via the internet, phone or email to discuss your ceremony and make sure it is exactly as you’d like it to be on the day.

On average, each ceremony will take 10 – 25 hours to prepare depending on the structure and content; amount of travel; time spent liaising with clients; writing the ceremony; and at the venue - before and during the ceremony.

Please note:

A £100 deposit is payable on confirmation of the booking which secures the date for you and begins the work on your ceremony. The balance is due no later than one calendar month before your ceremony. (Funeral fees are due on the day of the ceremony)

** There is a travel fee of 45p per mile after the first 15 miles from Newcastle.

No Obligation Enquiry

If you’d like to make a no-obligation enquiry to discuss ceremony content, further options, availability or any other information, please get in touch by emailing hello@barbaragubbins.co or by telephoning 07747804520. We can then go through your details, such as ceremony date, location, venue and any particular theme you have in mind. All ceremonies are bespoke, memorable and unique according to your own personal requirements.

For more information please contact Barbara on: