Why inclusivity is at the core of a good wedding

Welcome to my first ever blog post! If we’ve not met, my name is Elle and I’m the Commonwealth-registered civil celebrant behind Cellebrate! I am deeply passionate about creating fun, inclusive, and unforgettable wedding ceremonies.

The gorgeous newlywed Chris and Shane on their wedding day in Sydney

First, I’m keen to let y’all know why inclusivity is so important and how it lies at the very core of celebrating love.

Love without boundaries: In this day and age, love actually knows no boundaries. It transcends gender, race, religion, and any other societal constructs that seek to limit its expression. As a modern celebrant, my mission is to honour and uplift love in all its diverse manifestations. Every couple deserves to have their unique love story celebrated and recognised, and it is my privilege to make that happen.

Embracing diversity: Inclusivity is not just a buzzword for me; it is the guiding principle behind everything I do. I am neurodivergent and live with an invisible disability, which fuels my commitment to creating a welcoming and accepting environment for all. Whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community, come from different cultural backgrounds, or have unique needs, your love story is valid and deserves to be celebrated with joy and respect.

Personalised celebrations: One of the key aspects of inclusivity is personalisation, and this is relevant for everyone regardless of your background or personal circumstances. A good wedding ceremony should ALWAYS reflect your journey as a couple, your values, and what makes your love story special. No cookie-cutter ceremonies here! By taking the time to get to know you both on a deeper level, I craft a ceremony that is as unique as your love. From incorporating rituals and traditions that hold meaning to you, to finding ways to honour and involve your loved ones, every element is thoughtfully tailored to create a deeply personal and inclusive experience.

Creating a welcoming space: A truly inclusive wedding ceremony is one that makes everyone feel seen, heard, and included. From the moment your guests arrive, they should feel the warmth and love that surrounds you. Accessibility considerations, both physical and emotional, are essential in ensuring that everyone can fully participate and enjoy the celebration. Whether it's providing accessible seating, sign language interpreters, or offering support for individuals with specific needs, I strive to create an environment where all guests can share in the joy of your love.

Championing love and acceptance: As an activist and diversity and inclusion champion, I believe that love has the power to unite and bridge gaps in our society. Your wedding ceremony becomes an opportunity not only to celebrate your love but also to send a powerful message of acceptance and love to those around you. By embracing diversity and showcasing the beauty of love in all its forms, we challenge societal norms and promote a world where everyone is free to love and be loved.

I don’t mean to come across as preachy with it all, but honestly love is a universal language and it’s one of the few things that literally every person on earth has in common. It can and should unite us. It can and should help bridge the gaps and close the divides. Every love story deserves to be celebrated and when we do that, we create the change we want to see in the world. Inclusivity, even just including your own story and your own values in your ceremony, lies at the heart of creating memorable and meaningful weddings. As your celebrant, I am committed to crafting a ceremony that not only reflects your unique love but also creates a safe and inclusive space for all. Together, let's celebrate love in all its forms and inspire others to embrace the beauty of inclusivity.