Happy March lovelies! I am so excited to introduce one of Calgary’s incredible marriage celebrant! Tamara from Weddings by Tamara has been uniting couples for years with her beautiful personality and care for each couple. Today she is sharing a few tidbits when planning your wedding ceremony as well as a little bit about herself.

Not sure what the difference between a celebrant and an officiant is? Check out this article.

How long have you been a wedding celebrant?

I have been an Alberta appointed Marriage Officiant for 14 years.

Why did you decide to pursue being a celebrant?

My husband and I were married by an Alberta appointed Marriage Officiant. During our marriage ceremony I thought “YES!” I can do this…14 years later and 4500+ marriage ceremonies…it was meant to be.

Photo By Phil Crozier

Tell us about the best piece of advice you can offer couples trying to figure out their ceremony?

Try to make ceremony decisions when you both are in the mood to do it. Do your best to finalize ceremony wishes no later than 1 month prior to the wedding day if possible as there are so many other moving parts when planning a wedding, it is very important not to rush these decisions ensuring what you choose to share is meaningful and from the heart.

What is the most important aspect of a wedding ceremony?

That moment when the couple is completely grounded, focused and present in the moment. It is a feeling, a look, a breath or even a sigh that I can see they are taking every moment in. Priceless.

Photo By Juan & Angie

What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job would be that each couple and their wedding we work with are totally unique and we have a new opportunity to create something new with each couple!

Tell us about your favourite wedding you officiated?

It was the very last marriage ceremony that took place in The Penthouse at Fairmont Palliser before it was renovated. The couple was in their 80’s that found love again! Family and friends were there to support them entirely. Their marriage ceremony was as real as it gets; full of life, love, priceless vows, giggles and hope.

What does the process of working with you look like?

My role is to assist and coach couples with every aspect of their marriage ceremony. I offer guidance and support regarding recessional, processional, vows, readings, symbolic ceremonies and legal paperwork. There is a high level of customer service provided to all couples ensuring everyone feels ready for their big moment.

Photo By Jamie Anholt

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Pre-COVID, I enjoyed cheering my boys on in hockey, band concerts and golf. We also travelled quite a bit as a family. You would often see me with a laptop at the hockey rink writing ceremonies (not during games!). I am a public member to the council of the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta and active member in my community. I love to spend time with my dogs, make cookies, listen to alternative 90’s music (really loud) and be my quirky self wherever possible. I also love to garden, decorate and enjoy a glass of wine with friends.

Do you have any marriage advice for couples getting married?

Stick to your vision and do not do something that you “think” you should do to appease family and friends on your wedding day. Remember they are all there to support you both. Try and take some time off before (and after) the wedding day to rest and rejuvenate. Remember the journey you have been on to get to where you are in this moment in time.

Do you have a favourite wedding ceremony tradition?

There are many traditions I love involving formal processional but my absolute favorite is when the Bride walks in with dad during processional. It reminds me of my own wedding day when my dad walked me down the aisle – it was one the best parts of my wedding day and makes me smile. I am nostalgic 🙂