Lynette Maguire

Uncategorized – Posted on April 13, 2023April 13, 2023

Finding the Perfect Wedding Celebrant on the Sunshine Coast

Happy bride holding bouquet in the air as she walks down the aisle with smiling groom — Rob and Claire had the best day with their request for a chill, fun wedding at Yandina Station

The Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, is a beautiful location for a wedding elopement, pop-up or destination wedding. With its stunning beaches, picturesque hinterland, and perfect weather, it’s no wonder that many couples choose to marry here. I’m not sure of the stats now, but we used to be the 7th most popular wedding destination in Australia. I reckon we’ve climbed the ladder over the years and because of this, there’s a LOT of celebrants available.

So to make your wedding day truly special, you need to find the perfect wedding celebrant for you.

A wedding celebrant is such an important part of your wedding day: They’ll be the one who writes and conducts your ceremony, and they can really set the tone for the rest of the day. A great wedding celebrant will also work with you to create a personalised ceremony that reflects your personalities and your love story.

Here are some tips to help you find the perfect wedding celebrant on the Sunshine Coast:

Laughing bride and groom with Lynette Maguire Marriage Celebrant standing under an arbour — Kyle and Chantel’s wedding was perfect even with a last minute venue change

Look for someone who matches your style

Your wedding celebrant should match your style and personality. Do you want someone who is traditional or modern? Male or female? Chill or formal? Look for a celebrant who matches your style and who you feel comfortable with. Listen to your gut instincts – that’s what they’re their for. You can even tell their style but reading stuff they’ve written and looking at pictures of their weddings – if you want a fun wedding celebrant and no-one is laughing or smiling in their pics, it might be that they’re trying to be someone they’re not.

Read reviews and ask for recommendations

Look for wedding celebrants on the Sunshine Coast who have good reviews from previous clients. Ask friends and family members if they have any recommendations. You can also ask your wedding venue if they have any preferred celebrants that they have worked with in the past (keep in mind though that some have only one or two of each supplier.)

Bride and groom kissing in front of arbour as their small son hugs them both and bridal party clap and smile — A great celebrant will stand out of frame for the kiss – this kiss is brought to you by Dan and Tina

Check their availability

Once you’ve found a few wedding celebrants you think may be suitable, check their availability for your wedding date. You don’t want to fall in love with a celebrant only to find out that they are already booked on your wedding day (and a popular celebrant can book out 2 years in advance – though Covid did knock that around).

Meet with them in person (or by Zoom)

Before you make a final decision, it’s a good idea to meet with your potential wedding celebrant in person. Though in saying this about 80% of my couples use their instincts and book me without meeting, leaving 20% wanting to meet face to face or by zoom. This will give you a chance to get to know them and ask all the questions you have. You can also discuss the type of ceremony you want and get their ideas and input.

Bride and groom taking shots at the signing table during wedding ceremony — A great wedding celebrant will have a bunch of great ideas to incorporate into your ceremony – like Haydn and Hayley who chose to do shots

Discuss the cost

Make sure you discuss the cost with your wedding celebrant upfront. You don’t want to be surprised with unexpected fees later on. Ask them what their fee includes and if there are any additional costs. Some wedding celebrants will discount on weekdays (I do), others don’t. Some will add costs on for public holidays, but in any case it’s always good to ask. If the celebrant you love is a bit more than what you’ve budgetted for, let them know and let them know your budget – some will offer reductions, others will wish you well. It’s all part of the bargaining process, we’re used to it.

Six questions to ask your celebrant before booking

When you’re looking for a wedding celebrant, it’s important to find someone who not only matches your style and personality but also who understands your vision for your wedding day. To help you find the right celebrant, here are some questions to ask during your initial meeting:

What is your experience as a wedding celebrant? You’ll want to know how many weddings they have performed – most celebrants only do about 10 weddings a year but might say they’ve had 10 years’ experience – which is only 100 weddings (professional weddings do this (and more) in a year). Also, ask if they have experience with your specific type of ceremony (e.g., religious, non-religious, cultural, etc.)
How do you personalise each ceremony to the couple? A good celebrant should be able to create a unique and personalised ceremony that reflects your personalities, beliefs, and love story. Ask them how they go about this and if they have any examples of ceremonies they have done in the past. Many couples ask for video of past weddings.
How do you involve family and friends in the ceremony? If you want to involve your family and friends in your ceremony, ask your celebrant how they can help make that happen. For example, can they include readings, rituals, or other meaningful elements that involve your loved ones?

Bride and groom walking with big smiles and barefoot on a beach — A great celebrant sets the vibe for the rest of your wedding day

How do you handle unexpected situations or last-minute changes? It’s always good to know how your celebrant will handle unexpected situations, such as weather changes, late arrivals, or any other emergencies that may arise. Ask them if they have a backup plan in case something goes wrong. A great wedding celebrant will always have a few celebrants to contact in case something happens on the day eg., Covid, flooded in, etc.
What is your fee, and what does it include? You’ll want to know how much the celebrant charges for their services and what is included in their fee. This will help you budget for your wedding day and avoid any surprises later on.
Are you willing to travel to our wedding location? If you’re getting married outside of the celebrant’s usual service area, ask them if they are willing to travel to your wedding location and if there are any additional costs associated with that.

By asking these questions, you can get a better understanding of whether the wedding celebrant is a good fit for you and your fiance and if they can help you create the perfect ceremony for your special day.

Finding the perfect wedding celebrant on the Sunshine Coast is an important part of your wedding planning process and success. By following these tips, you can find a celebrant who matches your style, has good reviews, is available on your wedding day, and fits within your budget. Once you’ve found them, ask them for recommendations of their favourite suppliers so you get a real winning ‘A’ team for your wedding day. This will help ensure that your wedding ceremony is everything you have ever dreamed of.

Portrait of Lynette Maguire Marriage Celebrant — Sunshine Coast wedding celebrant, Lynette Maguire

Elopement Sunshine Coast, Uncategorized, Wedding Ceremony – Posted on April 2, 2023April 2, 2023

7 Great Tips for an Eco-Friendly Wedding

from Your Sunshine Coast Marriage Celebrant

Your wedding day is one of the most special days of your life. As you plan your wedding ceremony on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, it’s important to consider ways to make your special day eco-friendly. From choosing sustainable vendors to incorporating green elements into your ceremony, there are plenty of ways to have a beautiful wedding while also being mindful of the environment. Here are some tips for planning an eco-friendly wedding ceremony with Lynette Maguire, your Sunshine Coast marriage celebrant:

Happy Bride and groom holding hands under an eco-friendly arbour and surrounded by friends on a beautiful sunny day with blue skies — Eco-friendly weddings are becoming really popular

Choose a sustainable venue

The first step in planning an eco-friendly wedding is to choose a sustainable venue. Look for venues that prioritise sustainability by using renewable energy sources, composting, and minimising waste. Consider outdoor venues like parks and beaches that don’t require as much energy for lighting and air conditioning. If you do choose an indoor venue, look for one that has large windows for natural light and ventilation.

Opt for local and organic catering

When it comes to catering, choose local and organic options. Work with your caterer to create a menu that features seasonal, local ingredients. This not only supports local farmers but also reduces the carbon footprint of your wedding by cutting down on transportation emissions. Consider using reusable plates, cutlery, and glasses instead of disposable ones.

Feasting with share plates and cloth napkins are great eco-friendly ideas

Use sustainable decor

Choose sustainable decor for your wedding ceremony. You can use natural materials like wood, bamboo, and flowers for decoration and these are all very ‘in’ at the moment. Opt for reusable items like cloth napkins, tablecloths, and banners instead of disposable ones. Consider renting decor items instead of buying them to reduce waste.

Consider eco-friendly transportation

Encourage guests to use eco-friendly transportation options like carpooling or public transportation to get to your wedding ceremony. If you have guests coming from out of town, suggest that they stay at a hotel close to the venue or provide a shuttle service to reduce emissions.

Happy bride and groom standing holding hands under eco-friendly arbor — Use natural materials and hire if you can – Marlee and Stuart did

Incorporate green elements into your ceremony

Incorporate green elements into your wedding ceremony to showcase your commitment to the environment. Consider using plantable paper for your wedding invitations or favors. You can also have a tree planting ceremony or donate to a local charity as a wedding gift.

Have eco-friendly confetti for guests to throw

There’s loads of ideas for eco-friendly confetti – from gathering leaves and grabbing a hole punch to make your own, to buying it online and helping a small business. There’s eco-friendly snow confetti which basically disappears almost instantly or soon after it’s thrown. Flower petals and leaves, or lavendar flowers are all better for the planet than throwing plastic which will take ages to break down, or rice which birds eat and then swells in their tummies – not cool. Think outside the square – or just type ‘eco-friendly confetti’ into your favourite search bar.

Woman's hand throwing coloured eco-confetti again a pink background — Try eco-friendly confetti to help the environment and the birdies

Work with an eco-friendly celebrant

Finally, work with a Sunshine Coast celebrant who shares your values and commitment to sustainability. Choose a celebrant who has experience creating eco-friendly wedding ceremonies and can help you incorporate green elements into your ceremony.

Sunshine Coast Marriage Celebrant Lynette Maguire is committed to sustainable wedding practices

Planning an eco-friendly wedding ceremony with your Sunshine Coast marriage celebrant doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing sustainable vendors, using natural decor, and incorporating green elements into your ceremony, you can have a beautiful wedding while also being mindful of the environment.

Remember, even small changes can make a big impact.

Uncategorized – Posted on March 12, 2023March 12, 2023

Three most popular wedding trends in 2023

Australian wedding trends have evolved over the years, with couples opting for more unique and personalised celebrations. The latest trends include boho chic, industrial chic, and sustainable weddings.

Let’s explore these trends and see how to incorporate them into your special day.

Boho Chic weddings

Boho chic weddings are all about embracing a relaxed and carefree vibe, with an emphasis on natural elements and textures. This trend has become increasingly popular in recent years, with couples opting for outdoor locations, such as beach or garden settings. When it comes to décor, boho chic weddings often feature earthy tones, such as greens, browns, and neutrals, along with natural materials like wood, rattan, and jute.

To incorporate the boho chic trend into your wedding, consider using organic and sustainable materials for your decorations, such as dried flowers and leaves, pampas grass, and macramé. You can also opt for a relaxed dress code for your guests, with flowy dresses and loose-fitting suits.

Breadroll wrapped in a russet coloured napkin tied with string sits on bread plate with flower details, which sits on round rattan placemat — #naturalfibres

Simple arbour with one chair both decorated with macrame and set in a lavendar farm with dirt in the foreground — #naturalfibres

Industrial Chic Weddings

Industrial chic weddings are all about combining rustic elements with industrial touches, creating a unique and modern aesthetic. This trend has become increasingly popular in urban settings, with couples opting for venues such as warehouses, factories, and lofts. When it comes to décor, industrial chic weddings often feature metallic accents, exposed brick walls, and raw materials such as wood and concrete.

To incorporate the industrial chic trend into your wedding, consider using exposed bulb lighting, copper accents, and geometric shapes for your decorations. You can also opt for a minimalist and modern dress code for your guests, with sleek lines and monochromatic colors.

Groom with manbun and beard wearing black suit coat and white shirt with no tie, looks away from the camera — #stylishgroom

Woman wearing micro dress in pink hues in an alleyway — #stylishgroom

Sustainable Weddings

Sustainable weddings are becoming increasingly popular in Australia, with couples opting for eco-friendly and ethical options when planning their special day. This trend is all about reducing waste, supporting local businesses, and making environmentally conscious choices.

To incorporate sustainable practices into your wedding, consider using eco-friendly decorations, such as recycled paper and biodegradable materials. You can also opt for locally sourced flowers and food, reducing your carbon footprint and supporting local businesses. Additionally, you can choose to donate any leftover food or flowers to charities or local shelters.

Bride in long white gown and fastenator, leaning on concrete stair pillar — #sustainablewedding

large white cloth parasol with tassles atop a picnic box and flowers resting in the dunes of a beach — #sustainablewedding

The latest wedding trends in Australia showcase the growing desire for unique and personalised celebrations that embrace sustainability and ethical practices. Whether you choose a boho chic, industrial chic, or a sustainable wedding, incorporating these trends into your special day will create a memorable and meaningful celebration that reflects your values and personality.

Fairy Tale ending, Love Story, Mariage Celebrant Sunshine Coast – Posted on March 18, 2021February 6, 2023

How marriage counselling will make your relationships better

There’s some stigma in this country about ‘getting help,’ seeing a counsellor, and mental health in general. As a Sunshine Coast marriage celebrant with a background in psychology, I can’t rave enough about the benefits of having a sounding board and guiding light in all areas of your life – especially in your marriage and family life. Here’s six great reasons that might motivate you to pick to make an appointment:

Show your partner your relationship is a priority

You’ll be able to work through past traumas and issues so they don’t follow you into the future

Sometimes we drag our past into the present and that’s not healthy. The past needs to stay in the past. We don’t need past-us to sabotage present or future-us or our relationships. So working through relationship trauma and issues is a positive step towards acknowledging and working through your past without lugging that baggage around with you. Think about whenever you move house: it’s new beginnings, right? Well imagine moving say, a ragged, heavy old sofa into every new home you move into. Not cool. Get rid of it.

Groom bend down to kiss sitting bride — Fairy-tales can come true when there’s trust and honesty

You’ll be acknowledging your relationship health takes priority

No relationship is perfect, and you’d be doing yourself and your partner a dis-service if you acted like it was. We humans are a complicated bunch, that’s for sure. One of the best ways to show you honour your relationship with all it’s little quirks, is to prioritise it, working together on making it the best that it can be. If you’re not willing to do that, should you even be there? Counselling can help create peaceful families, which is something we all crave.

Smiling bride and groom walking along a wooden path with water on the left and bushland on the right — I love this photo – it’s like Elly is saying, “C’mon Matty, let’s get going!”

You know that sometimes it’s healthy to get objective opinions

It’s kind of hard to not take things personally, because we usually see through our own lens, so subjectivity is almost inevitable. The beauty of a marriage counsellor is they don’t have a vested interest in the outcome (unless there’s DV going on), so they tend to be a great objective sounding board, thus opening your perspective to other alternatives. They also teach us better ways to disagree and to have more constructive debates.

Your partner isn’t perfect – neither are you

Let’s face it, we’re all here to work through stuff and to do so, we have some powerful tools in our toolkit. A marriage counsellor will show you how to use those tools: tolerance, gratitude, acknowledgement, respect, trust, forgiveness, understanding, fun, laughter, play … You’ve already got the tools, but sometimes we need guidance in their safe and appropriate use.

Two brides at the altar reading their vows, their children between the, guests watching — Work together for #relationshipgoals – just like Naomi and Emily

You’ll both be in a safe space to talk about any non-discussables

Does your relationship have a non-discussable? Something that makes you squirm in your seat when you think about talking with your partner about it. That’s what I call a non-discussable. What better way to have that conversation than in a safe, inclusive environment with an objective and caring listener. Your marriage counsellor will guide the conversation to help navigate the path for you. There’s an art to having difficult conversations, while I’m not a Counsellor, I do know and teach others the rules through my consultancy firm. Hit me up if you’d like me to send you some information free of charge, of course.

Bride and groom laughing aloud on white beach with still water Kawana Island with Lynette Maguire marriage celebrant — No secrets

Counselling is great for your sex life 😉

Think about how liberating it’ll be when you have total trust in your partner. You’re not carrying past baggage, you know that your relationship is a priority, you’re with someone who totally understands you and gets you, and you have no secrets! You can truly lay yourself bare to each other. If that isn’t a recipe for a great roll in the sheets, I don’t know what is. Let me know if you’d like some recommendations to some awesome counsellors.

Bride and groom laughing together when saying vows with Lynette Maguire marriage celebrant — Marriage counselling works

Have you seen a marriage counsellor? What else can you add to the list?

Elopement Sunshine Coast, Mariage Celebrant Sunshine Coast – Posted on October 13, 2020February 6, 2023

How the universe wanted me at David & Evie’s wedding

Groom kissing bride with floral crown — You may kiss your bride

I love the way the universe works.

I love the way the universe works! I was at beautiful Secrets on the Lake in Montville for a wedding ceremony. I decided to have lunch there with my bestie beforehand and at the end of lunch, I took myself to the loo to get myself ‘wedding ready’ and joined the lineup (typical ladies’ toilet – am I right!?). Nec minute, this ball of sunshine walked in wearing a tiara and a sash declaring her the ‘bride to be’.

Of course I struck up a conversation with her, and in no time we’re chatting like old friends about her wedding. I walked away after wishing her the most beautiful and amazing day ever – and I was thinking: “Geez, I should really be marrying this chick” because I recognised my tribe.

Fast forward to the next night, I’m Netflixing and my phone pings – I’ve been tagged in a post on the Sunshine Coast Community Facebook group. A poor bride was frantic because her wedding was in a fortnight and her celebrant had taken ill and had cancelled. I checked my diary and read the comments to thank those who’d tagged me, and I commented that yes, I could help … check out my website yada yada.

I didn’t expect too much – usually these sorts of posts get heaps of recommendations for the seemingly 3 million celebrants currently servicing the Sunshine Coast.

Closeup of bride with floral crown laughing out loud, head back eyes closed — Every bride deserves smiles like Evie’s on her wedding day

And then, my phone pinged again. It was the stranded bride replying to me : “Oh my God, Lynette, I only just met you yesterday!”

Yes, you guessed it! It was the bride from Secrets. Wow!

Of course, Evie took it as a sign that I was definitely supposed to be her celebrant. The next day we finalised the booking and the other celebrant transferred the paperwork over in a smooth transition.

But there’s a years long backstory I wasn’t aware of then

It turns out that back in 2013, Evie and two friends gate crashed one of my Brisbane weddings, sat through the ceremony, drank the champagne, ate the canapes and enjoyed the company of the guests. They took a few selfies and were off again laughing all the way. Evie had remembered that ceremony and she’d loved it, but of course she had no idea how to contact me, or even what my name was.

Fast forward several years later, a mutual acquaintance introduced us in Mooloolaba. Fast forward again to Secrets where she was on a hen’s day wine tour – our paths crossed for the third time (unbeknownst to me).

Bride, groom and bridal party laughing with celebrant Lynette Maguire — The ring bearer, Evie’s son Zander with Evie and I laughing because I’m a cheeky celebrant

Evie and David’s ceremony at home was just amazing in every way. I knew instinctively what they wanted and delivered a relaxed, personalised wedding, bantering with the guests, laughing with the couple and enjoying the whole thing.

The wedding was supposed to be a surprise wedding under the guise of a combined birthday party, but it was soon apparent it was the worst kept secret on the Sunshine Coast. Having a home ceremony (surprise or not) really is setting the scene for a relaxed and fun affair. It allows you to avoid the protocols that people expect from a wedding – the crowd were excited and enjoying every part of the ceremony.

Meant to be friends

Dave, Evie and I have caught up several times and we marvel at how the universe paved the way to put us together.

I firmly believe that I’m at the weddings I’m supposed to be at, and when I met Evie at Secrets, I wondered why I wasn’t her celebrant. God, the angels, the unicorns or the fairies – whatever you believe – had their wands firmly in control of Evie and David’s awesome wedding.

And I’m so glad they did. When brides become friends.

[Pics by Kathy Hill from Whisper Images]

Bride and groom signing legal paperwork with celebrant Lynette Maguire — Even signing the paperwork is fun