Reflections on a Big, Beautiful Wedding Season
Wow. What a season it has been! After a slow and steady half-year break to recharge and reset, I was ready to dive back into what I love most—being a celebrant and MC for some of the most incredible couples in the Hunter Valley. And what a way to come back!
As of today, I’ve hit an incredible milestone: 227 ceremonies. That’s 227 love stories told, vows exchanged, and unforgettable moments witnessed. Reflecting on the past three years, I’m amazed by the growth I’ve experienced—not just in the number of ceremonies but in every facet of what I do.
Growth in Every Direction
From the style of my ceremonies to the way I craft each story, my confidence has soared. I’ve honed my storytelling to find those golden, personal moments in a couple’s love story—the ones that make their guests laugh, cry, and say, “Wow, I didn’t know that!”
Behind the scenes, I’ve fine-tuned my workflows and processes, making everything smoother, more efficient, and more enjoyable. These changes haven’t just made my life easier; they’ve elevated the experience for my couples. From the first meeting to the final kiss, my goal has always been to make the journey of working with me a true highlight of their wedding planning.
A Season of Highlights
I’ve been fortunate to marry couples at some of my favorite venues this season, including Darkhorse Vineyard in Lovedale, Redleaf Wollombi, Krinklewood in Broke, and Greystone Estate in Pokolbin. Each venue brought its own charm, and each ceremony felt uniquely perfect for the couples who stood before me.
As an MC, I’ve had the privilege of guiding receptions with energy, humor, and heartfelt moments. The feedback I’ve received has been nothing short of humbling. Couples and guests alike have said things like:
- “You feel like a friend who’s respected amongst the crowd and everyone listens to.”
- “It’s like you’ve been a long-term friend who knows every detail of the couple’s love story.”
- “You found moments in their story that we, as guests, had never heard before, and we loved it!”
These words remind me why I pour my heart into every ceremony and reception. They inspire me to keep striving, keep growing, and keep delivering an experience that leaves couples and their guests feeling seen, celebrated, and connected.
Working with the Best
A big part of the magic of this season has been the incredible vendors I’ve worked alongside. From photographers and videographers to florists and stylists, these talented professionals are the backbone of an unforgettable wedding experience.
Here are just a few of my absolute favorites this season:
- SearLuna Co. – Video & Photo
- Howard Shearman – Artist & DJ
- Tyler and Khiara – Duo Artists
- Carson and Kyle, Silent Shout Entertainment – DJs
- Katy and Matt, Rope and Pulley – Video & Photo
- Nicole Butler Photography – Photo
- Nathan Lapman Photography – Photo
There have been MANY other incredible vendors I have had the pleasure of working with—you’re all just as amazing, and have seen the love, dedication, and talent brought to this industry. Whether you’re styling breathtaking florals, capturing priceless moments, or creating the vibe that keeps the dance floor alive, you are so valued and so loved. Every couple’s experience is richer because of you, and I hope we get the chance to work together in the future.
Holding Onto the Feeling
This season has been a gift—a reminder of why I love what I do and the impact it can have on couples, their families, and their guests. I’m anchoring this feeling of fulfillment, gratitude, and confidence, and I’m holding onto it for those inevitable moments of doubt (because let’s face it, what business owner doesn’t have them?).
As I look forward to the next wedding season, I’m taking this momentum with me. I can’t wait to meet new couples, craft new stories, and create even more unforgettable moments.
To all the couples I’ve worked with: thank you for trusting me with your special day. To all the amazing vendors—those I’ve worked with and those I hope to work with soon—thank you for making this industry so inspiring. And to my future couples: I can’t wait to celebrate your love story next!
Here’s to another season of laughter, love, and happily ever afters. Let’s do this!
Interested in having me guide your ceremony or MC your reception? Let’s chat! Contact me here or email me at ashley@thehuntervalleycelebrant.com
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