Reason # 27 WEDDINGS

Since it's Saturday, what better day to celebrate one of my greatest passions? Can you hear the church bells sounding in the distance? Somewhere, a bridal party is buzzing with excitement—after all, the big day has finally arrived...


I Was Born to Celebrate Love

As a wedding officiant, I don’t just conduct ceremonies — I witness the power of two people choosing each other, committing to a shared life, and saying yes with open hearts. Every wedding is a sacred moment, and it’s my deepest joy — and calling — to help couples honour that moment with meaning, authenticity, and celebration.

Some people find a job. Others find a purpose.
 I found mine standing before two people, eyes locked, hearts open, ready to say, “I choose you.”
That’s the moment I come alive — when love stands still for just a second, and everything else fades away.

For me writing the ceremony always begins with music — a certain melody floating into my awareness as I begin thinking about the couple, their journey, their love story, and their hopes for the day. From there, I begin to see the ceremony forming in my mind, piece by piece — a tapestry woven from their lives, their laughter, and their love.

I consider it a true honour to be entrusted with such a meaningful part of a couple’s special day. Whether it’s an intimate gathering in a garden or a grand celebration under the stars, I am there to hold space — to shape a moment that reflects not only tradition or legality, but the very soul of the people standing before me.

I’ve been blessed to officiate weddings in remarkable places — from the grand pulpit of the Groote Kerk in Kaapstad, to a quiet beach in Mauritius, to a dramatic rock framed by roaring waves at Hermanus that at times splashed my back mid-ceremony.




No two venues, nor couples are alike — and that’s exactly what makes this calling and gift so fulfilling. I listen to their story. I honour what brought them to this point. I celebrate not only the love they share, but the lives that shaped them into who they are. And then I craft a ceremony that feels honest, joyful, and true — one that feels like them.




There’s something timeless about witnessing two people say yes — not just to each other, but to all the unknowns ahead. And I get to be the voice that holds that moment together — guiding, celebrating, affirming.

It never gets old. It never loses its wonder.


It has been my honour to officiate the weddings of most of my nieces and nephews (it is all their beautiful photos that you see here)—what a joy and privilege that has been.  There are still a few pictures short, but I am working on that!




Beyond these deeply personal occasions, it has also been my honor to conduct countless other weddings over the years. Each one unique, each one a heartfelt celebration of love. And this year, it will be my special honour to officiate the wedding of my son, Jeandré, and his beautiful fiancée, Nancy. What a deeply meaningful milestone—one that fills my heart with gratitude and joy.


Love is worth celebrating — every time, every way, every chance we get.
And for me, there’s no greater joy than doing just that - and what better time or place than at a wedding ceremony...!

 

"By the Powers vested in me,

I now pronounce you Husband and Wife.

You may kiss the bride (and groom)"

Saturday

14 July 2024




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