John’s ceremonies joyous & geared towards couple How to choose the perfect wedding venue

LEGAL wedding celebrant

John Burns is accepting bookings for 2024, such is the demand for interfaith ceremonies in County Clare.

John retired as Deputy Principal at Rice College, Ennis last year following 26 years of service, to follow his vocation for celebrancy.

Having qualified as an interfaith minister in 2018, a week later John took the plunge by marrying his partner Tom Gleeson at The Old Ground Hotel - since which time weddings have become a very integral part of his life.

Among recent ceremonies officiated by John include a Star Trek-themed wedding at Dunluce Castle in County Antrim. Closer to home, he has enjoyed joining couples at dramatic backdrops such as Hag’s Head at the Cliffs of Moher, on Fanore Beach, while also working closely with hoteliers across Clare.

John explains that interfaith ministery breaks down barriers, with couples being welcomed “irrespective of their background, religious beliefs or relationship his- tory”.

“For example if a girl of the Jewish faith wants to marry a Protestant man, I can meet them to get an understanding of their requirements and plan the ceremony together.

Moreso, now you get people who don’t have a into marriage and that’s a light-hearted moment.”

He stresses that his role as celebrant is a joyous one which sees him playing a vital part in the most important day of a couple’s lives.

His ceremonies have been described as “dignified, classy but also light-hearted and very enjoyable”. John explains, “I thought that captures what I try to do because it is their special day and for them to enjoy the ceremony itself is very important.”

John is registered with the HSE which means all legal aspects of his weddings are Covered. “I can carry out the legal part on the day without the need for a registry office and couples find this point very important.” religious belief system and they want a more secular ceremony.” John outlines that there are no restrictions as to what the couple can include in their ceremony, which would typically include poetry, song, handfasting ceremony, or traditional religious segments.

“I usually get a little story from the couple’s journey

John’s 2023 diary still has some availability and he is currently taking bookings for 2024 and 2025. Weekends are very popular so get in while they’re still available!

To enquire with John Burns Wedding Celebrant, call 087 276 63388 or email 31johnburns@ gmail.com.

SELECTING the right wedding venue is a pivotal decision in planning your big day. The venue sets the tone and ambiance of your wedding, and it plays a crucial role in creating lasting memories. With countless options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect location. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision when selecting your dream wedding venue.

Determine Your Vision:

Before embarking on your venue search, take the time to envision your ideal wedding. Consider the theme, style, and atmosphere you desire.

Discuss your preferences as a couple and visualize how you want your special day to unfold.

Having a clear vision will narrow down your options and guide you in finding the perfect venue that aligns with your dreams.

Define Your Budget:

Establishing a budget early on is essential for a successful venue search.

Determine how much you are willing to allocate for the venue, keeping in mind other wedding expenses such as catering, decorations, and entertainment.

Knowing your financial boundaries will help you focus on venues within your price range, preventing unnecessary disappointment.

Guest Count and Capacity: Consider the size of your guest list before finalizing a venue. Ensure that the venues you explore can comfortably accommodate your expected number of attendees. A spacious venue ensures that everyone feels comfortable, while an overly large space may create a sense of emptiness.

Confirm the maximum capacity of each venue you visit to ensure a seamless experience for you and your guests.

Location and Accessibility: Choose a venue that is easily accessible for your guests. Consider the distance from major transportation hubs, availability of parking, and proximity to accommodations.

If a significant portion of your guests is coming from out of town, consider venues near hotels or provide transportation options to simplify their journey.

Consider Your Wedding Style: Match the style of your venue to the overall theme of your wedding. Whether you envision a rustic barn, an elegant ballroom, a beachfront paradise, or a garden ceremony, select a venue that complements your desired aesthetic.

The ambiance of the venue should enhance the atmosphere you wish to create, providing a picturesque backdrop for your special day.

Amenities and Facilities:

Take into account the amenities and facilities offered by each venue.

Consider aspects such as catering options, availability of bridal suites, dressing rooms, and adequate restroom facilities.

Some venues may have preferred vendors or restrictions on outside suppliers, so it’s important to be aware of any limitations before making your final decision.

Flexibility and Weather

Considerations:

Flexibility is crucial when it comes to wedding planning. Consider venues that offer backup plans for inclement weather conditions or have indoor and outdoor spaces available.

Ensure that the venue can accommodate your desired ceremony and reception setup, offering flexibility to adapt to unexpected changes.

Visit and Evaluate:

Once you have shortlisted potential venues, schedule visits to each one. Pay attention to the venue’s cleanliness, overall ambiance, and how it aligns with your vision. Evaluate the layout, lighting, acoustics, and available amenities during your visit. It is also an opportunity to ask any questions you may have and discuss specific requirements with the venue staff.

Selecting the right wedding venue sets the stage for your perfect day. By considering factors such as your vision, budget, guest count, location, style, amenities, flexibility, and personal evaluation, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your dreams. Remember to trust your instincts and choose a venue that resonates with you as a couple, ensuring that your wedding day becomes a cherished memory for years to come.