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.

A heart-led celebrant is a person whose life is dedicated to lifting people away from their daily lives to create a sacred space in order to perform a special ceremony, shaped with clients according to their beliefs, hopes and dreams.

The celebrant acts as a storyteller for a couple’s love story, a child or the life of someone who has passed on. They aim to bring love, harmony and truth by gathering information and heart-led intelligence which will provide the perfect experience on that special or difficult day.

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.

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

For further information about Weddings and Celebrations of Life, please download our PDF leaflets from the links below.

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.

Barbara works with Jesmond Dene House hotel in Newcastle who has indoor and outdoor venues for ceremonies. However, she will also undertake weddings at other venues.

Please note:

A 50% 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 either paid directly or via the Funeral Director)

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

For more information please contact Barbara on: