About Me

 

My Story

After retiring from a lengthy and satisfying nursing career, I vowed to take time to do more of what I love, and officiating at weddings is high on that list! Having been married to the same good man for 44+ years, I am very much a fan of marriage. I know the joy of having a good partner in life and it thrills me to be present when couples are starting on that same journey.

I am a wife, a mother, a grandmother, and a fur-mom. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing my own wonderful children unite with loving, supportive partners; sharing their lives and growing together. I’ve also had the good fortune of receiving the most wonderful gift; my smart and funny and amazing grandson.

I grew up in Welland, raised my own family in Wainfleet and now live in Norfolk County. I am passionate about life and I strive to live it to the fullest; no door unopened, no path unexplored. I love to travel and explore the world. 30 countries and counting! I love being in my kitchen; cooking and baking. I enjoy time near, and on the water, especially kayaking. I love to golf, to cycle with my husband on our tandem bike, going to the theatre, live concerts, Toronto Rock games and watching NFL. My most favourite things are winery lunches, spa days, reading a good book, laughing with family and friends, and snuggling with my most loyal companion, Fergus... my 5-year-old Scottie-poo. And did I mention travel? I love it so much, it’s worth repeating!

I carried over some great assets from my nursing career that have made my transition to officiating very easy: professionalism, patience, great communication, empathy, flexibility, problem solving skills, and attention to detail. I have a great sense of humour, a calm personality, and I keep my commitments! I won’t be late and I won’t be overbooked! I will work with you to create a ceremony that reflects your values, style, and personality as a couple.

I am supportive of every couple that is ready to make a life-long, loving commitment, ready to assist all couples, regardless of their faith or orientation.  Whether I am officiating at the most elaborate celebration or a simple elopement, the intention is the same - to witness and to uphold a bond of love, bless it and solemnize it for the government.

It is an honour to guide couples through a wedding ceremony, a pleasure to witness them exchange vows and rings, and a privilege to declare them to be married and I would love to be part of your special day too!

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More about me

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 My Ceremony Philosophy

Let’s make your Day personal, authentic & fun!

 

Photo Credit: Blackbird Photography

  • I believe the ceremony should be a real, authentic celebration of your love and relationship.

  • I believe your ceremony should reflect your passions and style, your values and personalities, not mine or someone else’s.

  • I believe that while the ceremony can have religious content if you choose, it should not be a promotion of religion.

  • I believe that the wedding ceremony is about the couple getting married, not the guests or the officiant.

  • I believe in choice and so, I offer couples numerous options for their ceremony elements and language.

  • I believe in professionalism at every level; from dress and deportment, to communication, presentation, resources offered, and collaboration with other wedding vendors.

  • I believe in the importance and value of great relationships. I love giving the best of myself to couples who are passionate about my role in their ceremony.

  • I believe that almost anything goes when it comes to the genre or feel of the ceremony...so be creative!

“Amazing officiant - professional, thoughtful, attentive and so organized!

We could not be happier that we chose Shirley to officiate our wedding. Shirley proved to be very professional and knowledgeable in every interaction. She was thoughtful and attentive to details about our ceremony, providing suggestions and guidance that helped make our ceremony run smoothly. Shirley was responsive to our questions and requests and supported our vision for personalizing our ceremony. When speaking with Shirley about our vision, she was an active and attentive listener, asking questions and encouraging us to share our stories so that she could get to know us better. On the day, Shirley was organized and prepared, arrived early, and was a cheerful and calming presence. She is also an excellent public speaker and her preparedness for our event was evident. Not only was it a privilege to work with Shirley, it was a delight to get to know her and interact with her throughout the process.”
— Andrea & Martin

Working Together

You have booked me to perform your wedding ceremony—now what?

Here are some important things I recommend in order for you to have the best possible wedding day experience:

Communicate With Me

I am happy to answer any questions you have as you prepare for your wedding day. I am here to help.

Consult Me Before Making Changes

If you decide to change the date, time or location of your ceremony, please contact me first to confirm my availability. Because of other bookings I may not be able to accommodate your change.

Select Your Ceremony Content 

Remember to email your wedding ceremony content with me 2 months before your wedding day. The closer you get to your wedding day, the busier you will be. Completing your ceremony template can be done anytime so try not to leave it to the last minute.

Be Creative

The great thing about weddings today is that almost anything goes. I encourage you to create a ceremony that reflects your values, style and personality as a couple - not just common wedding traditions, or even the wishes of someone else. Feel free to ask for suggestions on how to make your day memorable and meaningful.

Set up a Second Meeting

I will contact you to set up a second meeting to review your ceremony content, to confirm the details for your ceremony and to do our "talk-through" rehearsal about 2 weeks before your wedding date. This meeting will be done virtually on Zoom.

Trust Me

Over the years I have accumulated valuable experience and expertise. I know the industry, the other wedding professionals, and how to guide you through the entire process. Ask for help with anything and trust my experience.

Know That Things Happen

Sometimes situations happen that are beyond anyone's control. Be assured that in every circumstance, I will strive for excellence and do whatever I can to ensure that your wedding day experience with me will be extraordinary.

Wedding Day Expectations

I will arrive at least 30 minutes before your ceremony. Upon arrival, I will connect with you, make sure the Marriage Licence and rings are in place and consult with the other wedding professionals (musicians, photographer, etc.) to ensure they understand the cues and that expectations are met. If there is no wedding coordinator, I will take on some of that role too. I will coordinate the details of the processional and confidently and professionally conduct the ceremony. Be assured, you are in good hands.

I am looking forward to working together with you!

shirleykennedyofficiant@gmail.com