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Baby Naming & Commitment Info Kit
Web: www.ceremoniesbyangie.com.au / Email: [email protected]
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Your Unique Celebrant for Every Occasion
Angela Dand
“I’ll be with you every step of the way!”
Registered Marriage Celebrant
Gold Coast, SE Qld & beyond
0419 977969
Celebrate & Create your greatest memories
2
• Why choose me?
• Create your ultimate Dream Ceremony
• Purpose of a Baby Naming Ceremony
• Indoor or Outdoors - Large or Small
• Themed & Costumed Celebrations
• Multicultural and Interfaith Families
• Backyard, Beach & High End Celebrations
• Family Unity Ceremonies with kids, pets & blended families
• Sacred Spiritual Ceremonies and more
• Meaning of the name and why you chose it
• Order of Service, Processional & Gifting ideas
• Vows of Parents & Guardians
• Creative Scripting ideas
• Readings, Poems & other Ceremony ideas
• Family Unity Time Capsule, Planting, Sand, Candle Ceremonies
Info Kit Contents
About Celebrant Angie Dand
Creative Ceremony Styles & Themes
Prices and Packages to suit all budgets and styles
Outline of a Naming and Commitment Ceremony
Info Kit Contents
Choosing the Music - Get your playlist together
Rituals & Ceremony Ideas
How to Book - What do I do now?
Complete Ceremony Checklist
Other Celebration of Life Packages I offer
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Unique and different celebrations
Angela Dand - A Celebrant Like No Other
I will work closely with you to ensure your every needs are
listened to. My passion is to weave your life and love
stories into beautiful, heart-warming tailored ceremonies,
to celebrate and create magical
memories that last for generations
to come.
No matter how big or small your celebration, you will receive exceptional
service and help with every step along the way, with someone you can trust
and feel comfortable with, who cares about you and your needs. A celebrant
who will actually listen to you, and will ensure you and your guests all feel
welcome, no matter what your cultures or beliefs.
Fun, Fresh, Fabulous Celebrant
Choose Ceremonies by Angie “An extraordinary celebrant who cares
about you and your needs.”
Why choose me?
Love and family comes in many shapes and forms, so why not include your blended and extended family and kids in your ceremony- we can even dress up the pets!
Adding family unity components and rituals to your ceremony ensures that everyone feels part of the union, and really makes your day extra special. Allow me to help you create fun and fabulous ideas to mark your special occasion.
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Create Your Ultimate Ceremony!
Let your Love Shine! Congratulations!
This is your most important day and I will be
honoured to share the journey with you. Each
ceremony is as unique as you are, so together
let us design and create your perfect and
ultimate dream baby naming ceremony.
It’s as easy as “I Do”
with
Ceremonies by Angie
From Overseas or Interstate it’s simple.
Why not elope with your new baby! No matter
where in the world you are, allow me to help you
create your ultimate ceremony, your way, here
in beautiful Queensland, Australia. Onshore or
offshore - even on a cruise, travel to other areas
can be arranged by request, and I will help make
everything as simple and stress-free as possible.
Unlimited
consultations via
online or phone- let’s
meet!
Creative Styles & Themes Whatever the choice, it is your day and should be
celebrated your way! You could be dreaming of a small
intimate gathering in a backyard, on the beach, in the
rainforest or in a park. Or you could be desiring the biggest,
lavish ceremony ever, with loads of guests and a big party.
Indoor or outdoors, large or small, this is your dream
ceremony, so create it any way you like! Each custom
tailored ceremony I write will reflect your unique personali-
ties, cultures and beliefs, and can include your whole
family, kids and even your pets, with Family Unity rituals and
components.
Baby Naming's in Australia
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Purpose of a Naming Ceremony Creative Ceremony Styles & Themes
Indoors or Outdoors With perfect climate nearly all year round,
the Gold Coast and surrounds have so much
to offer - From the beach and parks,
rainforest and rivers, to the backyard and
awesome indoor and outdoor venues.
Most importantly be prepared for any
weather with an indoor back-up plan.
Congratulations on the wonderful new addition
to your family. I am very excited to be a part of
this incredible child’s journey, and to perform this
very special way to celebrate the beginning of
new life and your commitment to your child as a
family.
A Baby Naming and Commitment Ceremony is a
wonderful way to officially welcome your child
into your family, your community and into the
world. It is also a great way to give recognition to
the special name you have chosen for your little
one, and the reasons behind choosing it.
A Baby Naming Ceremony is generally held with-
in your baby’s first year but can be done at any
time that suits you and your family. The ceremony can be done your way, instead of in
the confines of religious baptism or christenings, although we can incorporate
elements of these. It ensures that the child is a part of something greater and places
the child under the protection and love of those present. As part of this, the parents
may wish to appoint Guardians for their child.
You can involve all your other children and all of your family and friends in your cere-
mony – they can give readings, or play music, for example. You may even like to
include a symbolic ceremony such as a Tree Planting or Sand Ceremony. The choice is
yours but the most important thing is that you get to celebrate and plan your ceremo-
ny your way.
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Multi-Cultural & Interfaith No matter your culture, customs, faiths and
beliefs, allow me to help you create an
awesome ceremony, with unique rituals and
ceremony components, encompassing your
nationality and faiths. You can even Include all
your guests in inspired ceremony to bless your
union and commitment
If your culture needs an elder or ceremonialist
to conduct the naming tradition, I can stand
aside and take care of all the rest.
Creative Ceremony Styles & Themes
Themed & Costumed Parties So much fun! Themed and costumed cere-
monies are the new thing, so go all out - try
medieval, roaring 20’s, Movie World, Star
Trek, Superheroes, Frozen, Shrek, Walt
Disney, or even just face painting - the
choices are endless, so create as much
magic and fun as possible for the greatest
and most spectacular celebration ever!
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Sacred Spiritual Ceremonies
High End Celebrations
Beach , Gardens & Rainforest With so many amazing locations and
venues your choices are endless, from the
beach and tropical gardens and parks, to
the incredible rainforest and hinterland, the
Gold Coast has it all, with perfect weather
nearly all year round.
Make all your dreams come true with some
of the most incredible high end venues and
locations in the world! From small intimate
gatherings to huge gala events, you can
create your ultimate ceremony your way,
and choose to be as fun, heartfelt, tradi-
tional, elegant, contemporary or colourful
as you like.
In alignment with your Soul and Higher Self.
Honour the Divine within each other and create
a meaningful Conscious Ceremony with your
choice of spiritual elements and beliefs, With a
strong spiritual background, I will help you with
creatively writing your Unity and Commitment
Ceremony, and can include God, Spirit and
guides, crystals, blessings, earth and element
based rituals and multi-dimensional declarations
of intent as desired.
Creative Wedding Styles & Themes
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Family Unity Ceremonies With so many extended and blended families these
days, we can create beautiful heart warming
ceremonies that honour and unite our whole family as
one. This can include the kids, grandparents,
important family and friends - even the pets!
Rituals such as sand ceremonies, unity candle, ring
warming and blessings. can be tailor made for your
unique family situation.
Ways to include the Kids
Ceremonies with Pets All of us pet lovers know - Pets are family! Allow
me to create special roles for your pets so you
can include them, taking into account their
individual personalities and traits. There are so
many amazing ideas that will make your
gathering the most unique and creative fun
ceremony ever, with memories to last for
generations to come.
There are so many unique and wonderful ways to include not only your new baby and
immediate family, but every child at the ceremony. Consider giving them all a role,
such as blowing bubbles, or decorating a time capsule, or a special play area for
before and after the ceremony. You could even have them come down the aisle on
their little bikes with blackboards saying “Here comes the New Baby” before or after
the parents and babies entrance and arrival.
*Free basket of flower petals or bubbles for the kids with every
booking with Ceremonies by Angie.
Creative Ceremony Styles & Themes
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I will do my best to dress appropriately to your colour scheme or theme. Costumes can
be worn — we can even dress up your pets! Travel, costumes & props may be extra.
Ultimate Celebrant Packages
Awesome Packages for Every Budget, Every Style, Every Theme.
Whether it’s a quick intimate ceremony, a backyard gathering with the kids and dogs,
a BBQ at the beach or rainforest, to full scale magnificent high end events, you will
receive 100% personalised service and a unique ceremony that reflects your personali-
ties, cultures and beliefs. Celebrate and create your greatest memories with Angie.
I will help make everything stress- free and easy!
Celebrant Prices & Packages
Additional Services for a fee
Travel, costumes & props may be extra. Flowers, champagne, gifts and many ceremony compo-
nents can be arranged easily just ask.
Professionally printed and bound Ceremony Books and stunning Video Presentations with your
choice of photos included from $49.99
Tour Guide services available for up to 12 guests with Driver and Bus Hire to extend your celebra-
tions for your perfect holiday.
Baby Naming & Commitment Ceremonies
Every Package includes:
Obligation free initial consultation and info pack
Custom tailored professional service all the way
Unlimited correspondence by phone or online
Communicate with your photographer and others
Complimentary Order of Service book
Beautiful handcrafted Naming Certificate
Creative script writing and assistance with vows
PA system and microphone (if applicable)
Free gift — complimentary basket of flower petals
or bubbles for the kids
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Ultimate Celebrant Packages
Available 7 days a week & Public Holidays early till late
Prices as of Jan 2019 and subject to change
I will be with you every step of the way!
Diamond Baby Package
The Ultimate Dream Ceremony
*Small or Large gatherings
*Includes 2 - 3 ceremony rituals
*Vows of Parents & Guardians
*Approx 30 mins - 1 hour
*Unlimited Script Changes
*Free Gift
Gold Baby Package
$150
Normally $250 -
$100 off for all bookings for 2019
Normally $350 -
$100 off for all bookings for 2019 $250
Simple yet Meaningful Ceremonies
*Small or Large gatherings
*Includes 1 - 2 ceremony rituals
*Vows of Parents & Guardians
*Approx 20 -30 mins
*Free Gift
*Mostly outside peak times *Free basket of flower petals or bubbles for the kids with
every booking with Ceremonies by Angie.
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Choosing your Favourite Music
Songs & Music Choices
The Guests Arrival This is music to play in the background which sets up the
atmosphere for the coming ceremony, so your song
choices need to reflect who you are and also be
accommodating to your guests. This is a great chance
for another family member or guest to choose the playlist
and take care of the music. It also gives the other family
members a chance to show their personality and feel
included.
You may like some classical pieces, some general love
songs or perhaps an album that is special to the couple.
You can make yourself an awesome playlist for welcom-
ing your guests, and this can then be played in the back-
ground before the ceremony, as well as at different parts
of the proceedings. It can also be played after the cere-
mony when you are being congratulated by all your
family and friends.
The music you choose will reflect your
individual styles and personalities and
add the perfect backdrop and drama
for your unique ceremony. There are quite
a few different pieces you need for your
ceremony, besides the amazing love song as
the parents, family and guardians make their
entrance and walk down the aisle or commence
the naming.
SAMPLE SONGS
With Arms Wide Open
– Creed
Morning Has Broken
Cat Stevens
I knew I loved you before I
met you
Savage garden
You will need to choose music for:
• Music for Guests Arrival
• Entrance / Processional
• During & After the Ceremony
• Presentation of New Baby
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Entrance / Processional Song Choosing your Favourite Music
During the Ceremony Music
A processional song is the music that you and your naming party will walk down the
aisle to, or to announce the beginning of the ceremony. You can choose many different
songs for your grand entrance, perhaps different ones for the entrance of the guardians
and other blended children into the family. Make a grand entrance and every one of
your family and guests will have happy memories that will last for generations.
During the ceremony, make sure you keep all the children entertained with fun, upbeat
and lively music that ensures they will be jumping for joy and enjoying the party as
much as the adults. Consider creating a themed dance floor so they can dance, show
off and have the time of their lives, whilst still under supervision. Inspired!
SAMPLE ENTRANCE SONGS
Halo
Beyonce
Perfect
Ed Sheeren and Beyonce
You are the sunshine of my life
Stevie Wonder
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Presentation of New Baby Choosing your Favourite Music
Allocate Music Supervisor
At the end of the ceremony, the new baby, parents, guardians and other family mem-
bers and are congratulated by all their guests, and this song choice tends to be even
more upbeat and lively. You can have so much fun here with your song choices, or you
may decide to replay your entrance song again.
Depending on your post ceremony catering, you will need extra music playing here
too. A good idea is to make one massive playlist of your favourite songs that can be
played before and after the ceremony in the background.
The music needs to be under the supervision of someone who is preferably not in the
official naming party, and who is solely responsible for playing the right music at the
right time by following my cues. This is a great way to include someone that may be
part of the family or a good friend, such as an uncle, brother, teenager, parents or
schoolmate, or a friend who you couldn’t fit into the main union. Choose someone who
is happy to stand on the sidelines during the ceremony as part of your assistant team.
Whilst it is often the celebrant who is responsible for the music, if a PA system and
microphones are used for the ceremony, this is a lot for the celebrant to juggle.
Allocate your music supervisor and get them to start building your playlists, so they can
work with you and take care of this important part of your ceremony.
SAMPLE PRESENTATION SONGS
All Things Bright and Beautiful
Katherine Jenkins
Baby Love
Diana Ross and the Supremes
Celebration
Kool & the Gang
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
This is spoken by the celebrant before the new baby and parents arrive, and tells the
guests any important information, such as whether to use cameras or place them
down for an unplugged ceremony, turning off mobile phones, whether the parents
wish the guests to stand or remain seated. Also to get your guests ready to face the en-
trance area once the music begins to view the arrival of the child.
I will welcome all your guests with announcements and help to make everyone feel
comfortable whilst waiting for you arrive.
Plan Your Dream Ceremony
Housekeeping & Pre-Ceremony
OUTLINE OF A NAMING CEREMONY
• Pre-Ceremony and Music ideas
• Welcoming & Acknowledgements
• Processional & Ceremony ideas
• Vows & Scripting ideas
• Readings & Poem ideas
• Unity & Other Ceremony ideas
• Rituals, Blessings & Prayers ideas
SAMPLE PRE-CEREMONY SCRIPTING
“Hello everyone and welcome. Whilst you are getting comfortable and wait-
ing for the entrance of our beautiful baby today, I would just like to remind
you all to have your phones and cameras switched off or to silent now, as this
is to be an unplugged ceremony. The parents have asked you all to be
respectful and allow full access to the professional photographer, and to be
fully present with the family and guardians as they perform their ceremony
and vows today. So please get ready, and once we hear the start of the
announcement music, please be upstanding and face the start of the aisle,
where the baby will be escorted by her wonderful parents today. Thank you.”
All you need to know to create your ultimate ceremony.
15
Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
The Entrance / Processional That magic moment - the Grand Entrance!
This is usually with your specially chosen music
piece, and usually with the baby and parents
arrival, but there are so many other ways to com-
plement your ceremony. You could have the
guardians or children enter before you, throwing
out rose petals or blowing bubbles. Your grand-
parents or even your pets could be be joining the
grand entrance too. You could have one song
for the entrance party, and another for baby’s
arrival, or just the one favourite song.
Do it your way!
SAMPLE GIVING AWAY SCRIPTING
“Who presents this baby to be named today?” “I / We do”
“Parents of this beautiful new child, do you wish to affirm your blessings on this child
in this union of commitment in front of all those present?” “I / We do.”
“This couple are committed to each other in love and marriage, and now they ask
for a community vow. May all the guests here present declare their own personal
vows and commitment to this couple and their family and for the future they are
beginning here today. I ask of all of you: “Do you vow that you will continue to
treasure the time you spend together, to support each other through the changes in
your lives and to do your best to help this couple and child to take their place in the
community as kind, caring, respected individuals, as well as a family?” “I /We do”
The “Giving Away” The giving away could be done as a first ritual of the ceremony and could be given
with a kiss for the bride and a handshake for the groom, as you are handed over. Or
could be included as an asking, which can easily include all parents and children
entering the union. Sometimes for 2nd marriages or older couples, they prefer not to be
given away, but would like their children to affirm their blessings on the marriage. Also
popular is a community vow from all the guests, some sample scripting is below.
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
Acknowledgements This is where we acknowledge parents and families and anyone else important to the
family. It could be a time for a candle to be lit, to honour and invite all those who could
not be there, either in person or who are in spirit. We could also make special mention of
people travelling to the wedding from interstate or overseas, and let everyone know we
will be performing a special ritual later in honour of their culture.
Welcoming & Introduction The Celebrant welcomes everyone,
introduces themselves and talks
about the couple’s commitment to
each other and the new child, and
what they want this ceremony to be
about – anything that feels signifi-
cant and welcomes everyone into
the union.
This could include welcoming guests
who have travelled from overseas,
thanking those who have been the
most helpful, introducing the chil-
dren entering into the blended
family. or introducing the family and
guardians to everyone, so your cele-
bration will feel like one big family.
“Welcome everyone. My name is Angela
Dand and it is my greatest honour to be
appointed to present this beautiful ceremony
today. This is a small gathering of people that
are important in this family’s lives. Even though
they are a young couple, they are very much
in love, and so wished to commemorate this
new child's birth in the presence of all of you
here today.
We also have some special guests all the way
from India, the mother’s family, who have met
most of you for the first time today. We will be
incorporating a special Indian ritual later to
honour their heritage, and that will be a lot of
fun. Thank you all for being here and blessing
this union with your presence.”
SAMPLE SCRIPTING
“We would like to acknowledge all of the children from previous marriages, that are
being unified and blended today into one whole new family. A special sand ceremony
will be incorporated later to symbolise this union and bless the new family member.”
“We now ask the baby's grandmother to light a special unity candle and invite all of
those ancestors who could not be present today, to join us in spirit and witness the
naming and commitment in union for this new child.
“Even though the mother was brought up in Australia, in honour of her culture and
heritage, she asks that we all take part in a small ceremony, to honour and respect both
cultures and nationalities of this child. In this way, we acknowledge the joining of two
cultures into one, as we are joining two families into the one unified whole.”
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
So what is your Love Story?
This is where the celebrant lovingly
captures your story – your very
special love story!
This is where you know that you
have chosen a great celebrant,
because I will get to know you
and your needs, be compassion-
ate and listen, then weave your
story into a beautiful ceremony - a
story of first meetings and how
your love blossomed into this
perfect new life to be blessed in
this naming ceremony today.
This is heart-warming and
meaningful, and according to
your wishes as to whether this is
more formal and tear jerking, or
light hearted and humorous, and
is often a blend of all styles.
Love Story of the Parents
With a passion for creative script writing and going the extra mile to ensure your every
needs are met, together we will design your perfect ceremony that reflects who you
are as a parent and/or a couple, as well as the family and friends you choose to
witness and participate in this most joyous occasion.
Allow me to weave your love story into a heart warming, humourous journey of love
and romance, family and unity, to celebrate and create your greatest memories for
generations to come.
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These reflect the couple’s sentiments
about family and love and can be read
out by any of the main ceremony party,
family or guests that you wish to include.
This is a great way to acknowledge some-
one and give them a special role by read-
ing it out for you. Often, the reading or
prayer may be that which was special to
the parent, or perhaps read to them as a
child.
Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
Readings, Poems & Blessings
Love Poems
Whether you are having a small or large gather-
ing, including some poetry or readings can be a
great way to personalise your ceremony, and
make it really meaningful to you as a family. This is
also a great way to include other members of your
family in your ceremony and make them feel like
they have a special role.
Depending on your personalities and the themes
and tones of the ceremony, you could choose a
serious reading about love and new life, or per-
haps a poem or excerpt from a favourite child-
hood book, or maybe opt for humorous readings
to keep the tone light and playful.
SAMPLE POEM
“The Garden of Life” by Maggie Dent.
Children are seedlings in the garden of life.
They need sunshine and warmth
when they are cold and sad;
They need water and nourishment
when they are thirsty and hungry.
They need attention and care,
when they are challenged by life.
And the need to be loved, appreciated
and held in awe of their potential,
to be unique, beautiful and like no other.
Search for the hero within yourself
and then be there for our kids.
Please feel, listen and care
with your heart and soul and
you will become
A valued gardener in
the garden of life and one day,
A child may hold a special memory of you
forever, hidden deep in their heart
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Behind every name lies a story,
There are numerous reasons why
particular names are chosen, such
as ancestry and continuing family
traditions, or named after friends or
people you admire, or who have
influenced you in your life. It could
be a popular trend of the moment,
such as royal baby names and fa-
vourite musicians or movie stars. Or it
could have other meanings such as
numerology and astrology connec-
tions.
This is a naming day, so let everyone
know the special significance be-
hind your baby’s name and this will
add hidden depth and dimensions
to your child's history.
Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
Meaning of the Name SAMPLE SCRIPTING
MEANING OF THE NAME “MacKenzie”
“ I would like to talk about the name MacKenzie and
why it was chosen. Originally a Scottish and Irish last
name, in Gaelic it means " fair one, good looking." It
can also mean "child of the wise leader" and "born of
fire.”
(The parents) chose this name because ……………..
Born under the zodiac star sign of Libra, this child
represents balance, harmony and fairness. In numer-
ology, her life path number is a 9, which represents a
life purpose of helping and caring for others, often
as a humanitarian and philanthropist - a lover of life.
The Naming Naming your baby is a spectacular way to
celebrate and launch your precious child
into its new life and journey.
SAMPLE BEGINNING SCRIPTING
We gather today to name this
child
And welcome her into our hearts
We gather today to pour bless-
ings and love upon this child
A new life that has chosen to be
part of our world
We gather today to share our
gifts with this child
To share our care, knowledge
and joy
Wishing her a perfect life filled
with happiness and love
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
Comclusion of Vows SAMPLE
Beautiful Child, your name and Guardians have been chosen with love and you have been
officially named and honoured in the presence of your loving friends, family and community.
We wish you long life and happiness in a loving and peaceful world. May you bring joy to your
parents, your family and friends as you walk through life and make your mark upon the world.
Vows of Parents & Guardians Instead of Godparents, the new child is appointed Guardians to promise to share the
responsibility and care of this precious new life.
SAMPLE VOWS OF PARENTS & GUARDIANS
Do you vow to do your best to support each other
through the changes in your lives as parents, and of all
the responsibility this holds?
We do
Do you promise to protect and provide for this child,
so she may grow up feeling happy, safe and loved?
We do
Do you promise to encourage her curiosity, courage
and enthusiasm so she can deal with life’s challenges
with strength and optimism?
We do
Do you promise to cherish and nurture this child
To gently guide and support her,
but to stand aside and respect the choices she makes?
We do
Do you promise to do your best to raise this child
to take her place in the community as a kind, trustwor-
thy and caring person?
We do
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
The Asking SAMPLE ASKINGS
“Do you take _____________ to be your loving
child?” “I / We do.”
“Do you promise to care for this child and be
faithful and honest with them, and stand as
appointed guardians for the rest of your life?”
“I / We do.”
..or something humorous yet sincere.
“Do you promise to always love your child,
even though they may have forgotten to
clean up their room?”
This is your own special touch and
is completely up to you. This can
be done as a “Repeat after me”
with the celebrant, especially if
you are nervous, or could be read
out yourself. You could add the
personal vows as part of the main
ceremony or a ritual or prayer, or
add it onto the other vows. These
can be serious, light-hearted,
funny, or a blend of solemnity and
humour,
The Personal Vows
“I love you and cherish you and welcome
you into my life. With you by my side, I feel
that anything is possible – and even if it’s not
possible and I stuff up, I will kiss it better!”
“I loved you from the very first moment we
met. You are my life, my love, my child. I
promise to love you as unconditionally as
possible as we walk this life journey together.”
“Today I affirm my love for you,
and vow to share my life with you in
everything. I promise to respect and love
you and be the perfect parent. I intend
to be kind, honest and treat you with re-
spect. I take you to be my child in
throughout this lifetime, to have and to
hold, in sickness and in health, for the
rest of our lives.”
This is not required, but is a beautiful,
traditional way to affirm your commit-
ment to your new child. The celebrant
asks a traditional question to which the
parent responds with ‘I do’ or ‘I will’. This
could be traditional and solemn or with
a blend of humour, done on its own or
you could combine with your own
personal vows, or the vows of the guard-
ians. As always, it is up to you.
SAMPLE VOWS
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
The Gift Ceremony Precious gift for your new child
Whether you choose one special gift to commemo-
rate the occasion, or have all your family and guests
bring something heartfelt to gift the new child, this is
a beautiful moment in the ceremony. This can in-
clude the celebrant explaining about the symbolism
and significance of the gift and why it was chosen.
The gifting ceremony is a most heart warming and
joyous exchanging of gifts and affirmation of your
love, You can combine your personal vows as part
of the gift ceremony, or include a “warming” or
blessing of the gift by family or even all of the guests,
to make it extra special. Jewellery, crystals,
engraved baby items such as silver or champagne
glasses to drink from when they reach 18, perhaps
some trees for a planting ceremony. Go wild!
I ask you now to present
your gift to this child as you
repeat the intentions and
vows of commitment as
official guardians.
This gift represents a heart-
felt commitment of love
and your intentions to
always care for this child,
honour and respect each
other as parents.
It is a gift of commitment
and faith, a gift of love and
choice of commitment to
raise this child to the best of
your ability.
“There is to be only one very gift that the parents would like to present to their child. This gift
has special significance because it was the first ring his father gave his mother when they got
engaged. This ring will be placed in a time capsule to be opened on their 18th birthday. I ask
you: “With this gift, do you offer your commitment to your child with love, respect and honour?
“I / We do”
SAMPLE GIFT CEREMONY SCRIPTING
“Parents, will you both please hold this jewellery
in the middle of your clasped hands, and if possi-
ble with those of your child. The parents have
asked that all of you present here today be a part
of their future together, by helping them bless their
union as a family. This is also called a Gift Warming
Ceremony. I would like to ask you all now to bow
your heads and silently speak a blessing or prayer
that you wish for their future life together. These
blessings and prayers of love, happiness, success,
perfect health, good luck, prosperity and more will
embed themselves into this gift and help to seal
and unite the family as One.”
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
The Kiss Oh, such a perfect, beautiful moment in
every wedding, but why not make it a
sweet, heart-warming and whimsical
component of your naming ceremony.
This is usually done after all the vows of
parents and guardians are finished, and
they all get to kiss the child.
This is a last chance for the celebrant to
tell the guests any information such as a
group photo, or whether they can now
get ready to take their own photos after
the professional photographer has
captured their shots. Maybe the parents
and baby need to disappear for a while
for photographs, so this tells the guests
what to do and/or where to go. The
celebrant then sums up with some beau-
tiful words or a blessing about the new
child and their union, such as:
Conclusion / Blessing
SAMPLE SCRIPTING
“Your name is sealed in union and commitment
in the presence of your loving family and
friends. May this child’s life be filled with an
abundance of joy and happiness, love and
family. You may now hug and kiss this child.”
SAMPLE SCRIPTING
“Thank you everyone. As we conclude our ceremony today and get ready for
the sharing of food, fun and laughter for the rest of the afternoon and into the
evening, please reflect on the love and joy in your hearts. Be thankful for all that
has made it possible for this child to be here in your presence, as well as all of
the amazing things their future will hold. Today, together, we are all here to give
thanks and be grateful for this special love that we all share in their life.”
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Outline of a Naming & Commitment Ceremony
Presentation of Named Child The exciting moment of announce-
ment and introducing the newly
named baby. A favourite song is
usually played here and the family
are congratulated by everyone. A
great way to set the tone for the
reception with your choice of mu-
sic, from slow and romantic love
songs or children's favourites, to up-
beat and high vibe party time!!
Beautiful Child
Your name has been chosen with love
and with the strength of wisdom and
courage.
We therefore name you officially now
in the presence of your loving friends,
family and community.
And now ladies and gentlemen, family
and friends, it is my absolute greatest
pleasure to announce for the very first
time, the new child of life
……………..…”
A new baby child
We welcome you here
To brighten our lives
With laughter and cheer
With so many blessings
And so much pure love
You’ve surely been sent
From Heaven above
Like night turns to day
And the sun sets in the sky
We will help guide your life
And always stand by
SAMPLE ENDINGS
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Ceremony Components You can customise any kinds of components,
accessories and props to make your wedding
unique and more meaningful. These can be
done at any part of the ceremony, and can
honour your traditions, customs and heritages,
especially for inter-faith and different nationali-
ties, or to honour ancestry.
Some couples love to include the children enter-
ing the union here with a Commitment Family
Unity Ceremony. Sand ceremonies, time capsule
ceremonies, unity candles, planting ceremonies
and many more ideas can be included.
Rituals & Ceremony Ideas Rituals can be a great addition to any
ceremony. They add a truly unique element to
your ceremony that you, your friends and fam-
ily will remember and cherish forever. You can
embrace your ancestry and heritage, espe-
cially with mixed culture families, and these
can be as simple or convoluted as you like.
They can involve just the parents and baby,
your immediate family, the blended children,
or even the whole guest list! You can also
acknowledge anyone who was not able to be
there in person on your special day, and even
include your pets.
SAMPLE CEREMONY IDEAS
• Sand Ceremonies
• Family Unity Ceremonies
• Unity Candle Ceremony
• Planting Ceremonies
• Commitment Ceremonies
• Time Capsule Ceremonies
• Interfaith and Multicultural
• Prayers to Gods and Deities
• … and much more
Go wild with ideas to suit your
individual styles, customs,
personalities and themes.
I can tailor any ceremony
component to suit you.
RITUALS & CEREMONY IDEAS
26
SAMPLE Planting Ceremonies
Planting Ceremonies can be done in so
many varied ways and are fully customisa-
ble to any occasion at all! This can include
just the parents, or for uniting family mem-
bers such as children, cousins, stepfamilies
and relatives into the family unit.
This can be done as a :
Unity Tree Planting Ceremony with special
symbolisms or themes if you have the
space, to symbolise the joining together of
an individual and the child, or the joining
of two families.
Ceremonial Pot Planting where either just
the parents or other family members all
contribute directly into decorative pots at
the ceremony.
RITUALS & CEREMONY IDEAS
Rituals & Ceremony IdeasPlanting Ceremony Ideas
Memorial Garden Planting Ceremony
By creating an area in your backyard
or patio or anywhere special for a
beautiful planting ceremony, all the
guests are asked to bring a plant, herb
or flowers to gift the child as they pour
their blessings for the child’s future into
the earth whilst planting.
This is my favourite way of creating an
instant garden re-vamp, by placing an
ornate birdbath, statue or memorial
plaque, and planting several different
species of mixed plants, herbs and
flowers. You can even plant a time
capsule.
This becomes a gorgeous ever chang-
ing garden, that you could then use
for future celebrations such as addi-
tional Baby Naming's, Anniversaries
and Birthdays, or perhaps Memorials
for ashes or pets.
27
Sand Ceremony Ideas SAMPLE
Sand Ceremony
A sand ceremony is a fabulous way to
commemorate your new family, You can
choose an amazing type of glass jar, vase
or bottle, and blessings are poured over
you from your guests as you affirm your
joining, with symbolic sand which becomes
a lifelong memento.
There are many different ways of celebrat-
ing with a sand ceremony ritual, so allow
me to tailor your ceremony and make it
extra special.
RITUALS & CEREMONY IDEAS
SAMPLE
Family Unity Sand Ceremonies
Include your blended and extended
families to join your marriage and
unite with you both with love. Even
the little kids will have great fun being
involved with this one.
For families of different nationalities or
living in different countries, this is a
unique way of getting everybody in-
volved, and can symbolise 2 families
separated, but now joined as one.
Go wild with ideas to make sure your
ceremony is unique to you. Together
we will create magical memories that
will have you and all your guests
smiling for many generations to
come.
28
Unity Candle Ceremony
Lighting a Unity Candle during your
ceremony is a special way to symbolise
your two life joining together with the
child as one. The parents can choose
to light one candle together from the
individual ones they hold. There are so
many different candle shapes and
types, so make sure and get a wind
proof one if your wedding is outdoors.
Family Unity Candle Ceremonies
You could also choose unique ways of
including your blended families in your
union with various rituals, And the start
of the ceremony is a perfect time for
lighting a candle to acknowledge and
invite in any family members that have
passed or could not be there in person,
and this symbolises their essence.
RITUALS & CEREMONY IDEAS
Rituals & Ceremony IdeasCandle Ceremony Ideas
Time Capsule Ceremony
This ceremony is very beautiful and meaningful and
involves everybody at the gathering. These are usu-
ally given to the child when they have a significant
birthday such as 18 or 21 and can last the child the
rest of his or her life. You can use any kind of
container, box, jar etc. You could even get all the
other children in the family to paint and decorate
the time capsule before burying it..
The capsule is then filled with meaningful items such
as gifts, photos, letters, cards, wishes and prayers,
money, toys, newspaper from the date of birth etc.
This can involve just the immediate family, or the
whole gathering by inviting all guests to contribute.
The best thing is you can take it with you if you
move house!
29
APPOINT YOUR TEAM OF RELIABLE HELPERS
This is an important day of your life, so do your
best to ensure everything runs smoothly as pos-
sible by being organised, having a master plan
checklist, and by making sure every helper has
the updated copy of the checklist on the day.
Appoint your Team of Helpers
Allocation of Roles and Duties
You may need helpers for:
• Ushers
• Transport
• Flowers/ Gifts
• Music / Video
• Decorations/ Costumes
• Catering and cake
Checklist Start with a list or spreadsheet of everyone's
role that they have agreed to assist with.
Keep this in a ready spot like on the fridge
so anyone can see it easily. Include names,
phone numbers, emails, their relationship
with you, their suburb etc and the times
they are expected to arrive.
If possible draw a mud map as well and
hand the list out to key people on the day,
or have it placed in strategic positions for
anyone to consult easily.
Ushers will need to meet and greet guests, show
people to their seats and guide them as to where
the bathrooms are, where to place the gifts, and
perhaps introduce themselves and your family
members to your other guests.
The other family members or best friends could take
on these roles as a fun way to meet everybody.
30
Checklist for Celebrant Services Dream about creating your perfect ceremony and the types, styles and themes you
want. From small, simple yet meaningful ceremonies, loads of fun costumed and
themed parties, to large full scale high end events, this is your very important day so
make sure you plan it your way!
Stay organised and your ceremony will be the fabulous occasion you dreamed of.
Complete Ceremony Checklist
Choose your date and time
Choose and book your Celebrant
(Arrange a free consultation in person,
phone or online.
Get to know each other and start
creating ideas and scripting with the
celebrant.
Organise the rest of your celebration
knowing you have booked the
perfect celebrant of your choice for
your date.
Where do I start?
Meet with your celebrant either in
person, phone or online.
Confirm ceremony scripting, order
of service and music choices
Make sure all key personnel lists
are given to celebrant
Get really EXCITED about your day!
1 month before
I WILL SEND YOU A REMINDER SO RELAX
31
Complete Ceremony Checklist
Styles and themes of ceremony
Backstory of the parents and the
creation of the child
Personal Vows of parents and
guardians
Music selection for the whole
ceremony, plus before and after
Readings / Poems / Sentiments
Key people to acknowledge
Do I want to include pets?
Guest book or album?
Ritual & Ceremony components
(I can organise many of these for you if
you prefer)
Do I need a dedicated children's
play area?
Do I need a gift table?
Costumes / Props / Bubbles/Petals?
Alternative wet weather venue
Checklist for Celebrant Services
Things to think about?
When you have your list of helpers and
their contact details, you can hand out
copies of this checklist on the day and/or
at rehearsal, so everyone has a copy of
the plan.
You will need name & contact details of:
Celebrant and all key people
Arrival time of parents and child
Arrival time for family and guardians
Order of Processional & Song
Ushers for greeting and seating
guests, directing to gift table, assist
celebrant to pack up
Music supervisor & attendant
Gift Bearer (kids or pets if you trust them!)
Someone in charge of gift table
Someone to collect certificates from
celebrant and keep them safely
Someone in charge of the master
plan on the day
(After all, you will be getting ready for your
grand entrance, so you want everything run-
ning as smoothly as possible behind the
scenes.
Your Wedding Team
32
What do I do now? HOW TO BOOK YOUR CELEBRANT
Congratulations! Lets meet up and make sure I am the perfect celebrant for you.
Text, phone or email and we can arrange a private free initial consultation in person
or online. Let’s get to know each other and get really excited about planning your
dream ceremony and all the ideas you have to celebrate it your way.
Email or text this Info Kit to all your family and friends and get them to check me out
too, so that way everybody is happy.
Print out this kit or save to your computer
and you can circle the parts you love the
most, plus make notes on the back of the
pages. This will assist with our beautiful cre-
ative script and ceremony writing for your
perfect wedding.
Save Your Date
Unlimited consultations via online
or phone- let’s meet!.
CHECK AVAILABILTY & CHOOSE YOUR CELEBRANT FIRST
Some couples prefer to book the venues and accommodation first, others know how
important it is to choose a celebrant as the first step. Make sure your chosen dates and
times are available, as well as choosing the perfect celebrant to suit you.
Once you have had your free initial consultation, either in person or online, you may
choose to appoint me as your celebrant. I will be very honoured! A deposit will then be
arranged to secure my services and to start the process of getting to know you and
creating your perfect ceremony.
33
Other Celebrations of Life
Celebrations of Life & Love There are so many important occasions in life and we want to celebrate and honour
our loved ones and our precious life milestones, to create magical memories that last
forever! Or be inspired with my DIY solutions by ordering your special video to honour
the occasion. Send me your photos for an instant gift for your loved ones, or for an
awesome background video presentation for your celebration.
Free Info Kits CONTACT ME NOW by text, phone or email,
or go to my website and fill out the contact
form, and you will receive an absolutely free
comprehensive guide to all my services, and
how we will work together to create your
perfect Celebration of Life.
ORDER EVERY KIT NOW
• Marriage Ceremonies
• Celebrations of Life
• Baby Namings & Commitment
• Memorials & Farewells
.. and more
0419 977969 www.ceremoniesbyangie.com.au / [email protected]
CONTACT ME NOW
Life Celebrations Packages from $150
• Weddings, Elopements & Revamped Registry Style
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• All Special Occasions
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• Pet Ceremonies for all occasions
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featuring your own photos from $49.95.
ORDER YOUR FREE INFO KIT NOW AND START PLANNING
Your Celebrant Angela Dand
