Hello, I am Emma
I'm a wedding and vow renewal celebrant based in Cambridge, and I came to this work in a rather lovely way.
In May 2025, two of my former students travelled from the United States to the UK to get engaged. She had no idea he was about to propose. I was one of the few people who knew it was happening. He proposed at the top of Castle Mound overlooking Cambridge. She said yes. A couple of days later, just before they headed to the airport, they asked me something I had not expected: would I officiate at their wedding?
I said yes immediately. It felt like a huge honour. But I knew absolutely nothing about what it would involve.
How One Wedding Changed Everything
I spent months researching, learning about US wedding law, studying ceremony structures and working with the couple to create something that reflected them. On their wedding day, I stood in front of 150 guests and delivered a ceremony that was personal, heartfelt and unique to them.
The response was overwhelming. Guest after guest came up afterwards asking if this was my full-time job and whether I would come back to conduct more weddings. During their honeymoon, the couple messaged to say I was "one of the primary reasons" their wedding had felt so special.
The day after their wedding, I sat and reflected. I had helped create genuine joy. I had made people laugh and cry (in a good way). I had been part of something truly meaningful.
A few days later, I enrolled in the Academy of Modern Celebrancy's certified training programme. Three months later, I graduated as a certified wedding celebrant.
My Background
An Academic Foundation
Essex-born and Cambridge-based since 2009, my professional life has focused on interreligious dialogue, interfaith relations and cultural and religious awareness.
This background shapes how I work as a celebrant. I understand the nuances of different faith traditions. I can help mixed-faith couples navigate their ceremony in ways that honour both backgrounds. I respect everyone. I can sensitively weave cultural and religious traditions into your celebration.
A Pastoral Approach
Throughout my career, I have been known for my pastoral care approach. I have always had what I call an "open door policy" – creating space where people feel comfortable sharing what is on their minds, knowing they will be listened to and heard.
Colleagues and students often said I had a knack for being present, for really listening, for offering genuine support and thoughtful guidance. That same approach carries through to my work as a celebrant.
Creativity and Authenticity
Storytelling has been an important part of my professional career in a research institute, gathering stories about our scholars and their projects to captivate the interest of stakeholders and donors. Written reports shed light on a scholar’s path weaving stories of their incredible research journey or revealed the compelling findings of a research project. No two stories were ever the same. I loved the creative process of finding the right words to capture these stories. I still do.
I will not use AI to write your ceremony. (I am not even sure that I would know how!) I believe in authentic voices, in genuine communication, in writing that comes from understanding and caring about the people involved. Your ceremony will be written by me, for you, with thought and intention behind every word.
What I Bring to Your Ceremony
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Someone Who Listens
I seem to have one of those faces that invites people to share their stories. That is perfect for this work because understanding your story is how I create a ceremony that truly reflects you.
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Warmth and Professionalism
I strike a balance between being warm and approachable while maintaining the dignity and significance your ceremony deserves. You will feel comfortable with me, but you will also trust that I will deliver your ceremony with poise and confidence.
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Organisation and Care
I am prepared for everything. (Did I mention the dresses with pockets full of tissues?) I will think through every detail, arrive early, coordinate with your suppliers and handle any last-minute changes with calm efficiency.
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No Hidden Agendas
What you see is what you get with me. I don't judge. I don't have agendas. I instinctively want to make sure everyone feels included and valued. I genuinely want to help, to support you and to be there as a friend throughout your journey.
My Connection to Cambridge
I have lived in Cambridge since 2009. I know the area well – the venues, the hidden gems, the beautiful spaces that make Cambridge such a special place for celebrations.
A Little More About Me
When I am not working, I enjoy travelling in Europe, hiking in Utah, reading and making beaded jewellery. My family and friends are incredibly important to me and I love spending time with them. If you find me in a café, my go-to-drink is a black Americano. If asked what is my favourite food, I would have to say spaghetti pomodoro – you cannot beat authentic Italian flavours.
I have been told I have a smile for everyone. My style is warm and friendly.