Marian Lemise Celebrant

01/08/2025

Something to ponder 🍂

Here's what to do if you’re experiencing one.

29/07/2025

Thoughts?

When Linda decided she wanted to get married, she wasn't planning on this being to anyone she loved. In fact, she’s not even dating anyone.

Instead, Linda went online to find a so-called marriage buddy to pair up with in a fake relationship. While it may sound deceptive to fake a marriage, she explains it’s about navigating Chinese tradition on her own terms.

“I have lots of friends in my life so I don't usually feel lonely or bored. I actually feel quite happy and fulfilled living alone. But because of the traditional expectations, the pressure from family in society, they think I've reached the right age to get married.”

Linda’s found a match and hopes her wedding will help fulfil one of her grandfather’s last wishes, but she and her fake husband have also set clear boundaries.

“We have made some agreements. We will stay financially independent. We won't live together, and won't share daily life together like a conventional couple… but we will both make time to look after each other's families when needed.”

Wanqing Zhang from the BBC’s Global China Unit says Linda isn’t unique and that increasing numbers of young people in China are pretending to marry to please their families.

“People choose to have a marriage buddy because they want to make their parents happy.”

But as Wanqing explains, the idea hasn’t come from out of nowhere.

“In recent years it has been very popular for young Chinese people to search for a buddy on social media if you want a companion in your life. If you are into running, you find a running buddy. The idea of a marriage buddy is actually an extreme version of this buddy culture.”

🎧 Hear more on What in the World: https://bbc.in/4lyjhGg

20/07/2025

20/07/2025

Wolston House, Wacol 💖 wedding from 1981 💖 the lovely bride, stunning in a burgundy dress 💖 she kindly shared her wedding photos! I am now the celebrant for weddings here!

19/07/2025

Today is a significant day for ALL celebrants.

50 years ago today Lois D'Arcy was appointed as the very first civil celebrant in Australia. This appointment was by Justice Lionel Murphy, a visionary who saw a need for people to have an alternative to a church or registry office marriage ceremony.

Fast forward 50 years approximately 75% of all marriages are done by celebrants.

Funeral celebrancy happened a little later, but was very much led by those pioneers.

And while acknowledging others, thanks to The Celebrant Network and Robyn O’Connell for words and photo ❤️

15/07/2025

See you there on Thursday?? I'm making ratatouille!!

Our Free Community Dinners now have a heater!

Nothing beats warming your hands up by a heater and warming your belly with some delicious food. Bring the kids, bring a beanie and join us at your local free community dinner soon.

📍Alfred & Lucina Best Park, The Gap, every Wednesday from 4:30 to 6:30pm
📍Cubberla Creek Reserve West Playground, Kenmore, every Thursday from 4:30 to 6:30 pm

13/07/2025

🐶

03/07/2025

With Zion & Poppy Acrobatics – I'm on a streak! I've been a top fan for 12 months in a row. 🎉

27/06/2025

06/06/2025

How lovely! ❤️ #