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Monday 9am - 5pm Tuesday 9am - 5pm Wednesday 9am - 5pm Thursday 9am - 5am Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 5pm

Trish Thomas Marriage Celebrant Sunshine Coast, Old Orchard Drive, Palmwoods (2025)

08/11/2023

• Outdoor Weddings and Preparing for the Elements •

As temperatures rise in spring and summer, weddings are increasingly held outdoors. Outdoor weddings can be absolutely magical, but the weather forecast is never a certain thing. It’s essential that you have a backup plan so you are prepared for wet conditions.

First and foremost, make sure you have a designated undercover area. Tents and marquees are your best friend. They will keep your guests dry from the rain, and provide some respite from the sunshine on particularly hot days.

Encourage your guests to wear appropriate clothes and footwear, like boots or waterproof shoes. You may also want to have a supply of umbrellas or ponchos on hand for everyone.

And when all else fails - embrace it! Don’t let sudden showers *dampen* your spirits. You’ll still get to marry the love of your life. Make the most of your rainy wedding day!

26/10/2023

• Choosing Your First Dance Song •

For those who choose to incorporate the traditional “first dance” into their wedding day, choosing the perfect song is a big decision. Are you a fan of classic ballads? Contemporary hits? Something upbeat? Or a slower, more romantic burn? What message do you want the lyrics to convey?

My advice is always to avoid overthinking it. Pick a song that feels right to both of you, one that fills your hearts with joy, and it will be perfect.

If you’re really stuck for inspiration, here are the 5 most commonly chosen first dance songs across the globe:

1. “At Last” by Etta James
2. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
3. “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green
4. “Stand By Me” by Ben E King
5. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Andy Williams

Which would you add to the list?

12/10/2023

• Renewing Your Vows •

When it comes to love and commitment, renewing your vows can be a powerful and meaningful way to celebrate your relationship. Whether you've been married for a few years or several decades, reaffirming your love through a vow renewal ceremony is an opportunity to strengthen your emotional connection and reflect on the journey you've taken as a couple.

In all relationships, there are challenges and difficult times. Renewing your vows is a way of saying, "We've faced our share of trials, but we're stronger than ever." It's a testament to your ability to overcome obstacles as a partnership. It’s also a chance to set intentions for your future together. You can talk about your hopes, dreams, and the journey you envision ahead. It's a forward-looking celebration of your love and what's to come.

Let me help you recapture the special way you felt on your wedding day. Get in contact today to start planning your vow renewal ceremony.

03/10/2023

• Let Them Eat Cake! •

15/09/2023

• Welcoming Your Little One •

The arrival of a new baby is a momentous occasion, filled with joy, hope, and dreams for the future. It's a time when parents are eager to introduce their bundle of joy to the world, and what better way to do so than with a heartfelt Baby Naming Ceremony?

Baby Naming Ceremonies have been a part of diverse cultures throughout history. They're often held a few weeks or months after a child's birth, allowing parents to choose a name that carries deep significance for their child.

One of the most appealing aspects of a Baby Naming Ceremony is its inclusivity. Unlike traditional baptisms or christenings, these ceremonies are secular in nature, allowing parents to celebrate their child's arrival without religious affiliations. They allow for flexibility, in that the ceremony can be held virtually anywhere—from your backyard to a picturesque park or even a cozy living room! This allows you to craft the atmosphere you want for your guests.

So, if you're welcoming a new addition to your family or know someone who is, consider the beauty of a Baby Naming Ceremony. It's a celebration of life, love, and new beginnings, and it's a day you'll treasure forever. Get in touch with me to begin planning your Baby Naming Ceremony today.

07/09/2023

• Toasting to Love! •

31/08/2023

• Dream team! •

Because your bridesmaids are the friends who stand by your side, not only on your wedding day, but throughout your journey in love.

24/08/2023

• Picking your wedding florals •

Choosing your wedding florals is a creative journey that allows you to infuse your personality and style into your big day. Aside from bouquets and centrepieces, flowers can be incorporated into aspects of your wedding like the ceremony backdrop, aisle decor, boutonnières, and even your cake!

So how do you decide which flowers are best suited for your ceremony? Here are a few good first steps:

Your wedding colour palette will heavily influence your floral choices. As a first step, decide on your primary and accent colours, keeping in mind the overall mood you want to convey. Flowers can be used to complement or contrast with your colour scheme, adding depth and vibrancy to your decor.

You may also want to incorporate flowers that hold personal significance to you and your partner. Perhaps you want to include the flower your partner gave you on your first date, or a bloom that holds cultural or familial importance.

Opt for flowers that are in season, as these tend to be more readily available and affordable. Schedule a consultation with a florist who can suggest seasonal floral combinations, arrangements, and designs that align with your vision and budget.

And if you would like recommendations for florists in the Sunshine Coast area, don’t hesitate to send me a message.

09/08/2023

• My approach to celebrancy •

As a wedding celebrant, I understand that your wedding day is a chapter in your one-of-a-kind love story. My passion lies in creating ceremonies that speak to your hearts.

I take immense pride in helping you plan a day to be treasured forever by taking the time to really get to know you, your journey as a couple, and your dreams for the future. This forms the foundation of a tailor-made wedding ceremony that captures the essence of who you each are. I encourage creativity, and weaving in whatever cultural, spiritual, or symbolic elements hold meaning for you. My goal is always to create a ceremony that captures your vision and resonates with your guests.

As for the wedding the planning - we all know it can be a bit daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. I strive to make the process smooth and enjoyable. From our initial consultation until the moment you say “I do,” I will be by your side, guiding you each step of the way. I offer a collaborative approach, listening to your ideas and offering suggestions based on my extensive experience in the wedding industry. My goal is to transform your vision into a reality, relieving you of needless stress so you can focus on savouring each and every joyous moment.

Let's embark on this journey together and create memories to stand the test of time! Get in touch with me to start planning your perfect day!

27/07/2023

• Cherishing the moment •

On such a momentous day, it’s easy to get swept up in the joyous chaos. From posing for photographs to engaging in conversations with guests, it’s all too easy to forget to be present in the moment.

As the day unfolds, be sure to sneak in some alone time with your partner to reflect on the journey that led you both to this special day. Reminisce about the precious memories you've shared, the challenges you've overcome, and the growth you've experienced together. In this moment of quiet connection, let the love that brought you together in the first place reignite the flame of excitement and anticipation for the future.

14/07/2023

• Picking your wedding season •

As you choose your wedding date, it's essential to consider the time of year. Selecting the season for your special day plays a pivotal role in establishing the overall “feel” and influences various other decisions you'll make throughout the planning process.

There are things to appreciate about a wedding at any time of year. In Australia, weddings are most common in Spring and Autumn. For one thing, these seasons have the benefit of milder weather so that irrespective of your choosing an indoor venue or a ceremony outside, your guests won’t be too hot or too cold, and can wear something light and comfortable. Both Spring and Autumn offer a breathtaking display of blossoms and foliage to serve as a backdrop for your special day. And, as these transitional seasons are symbolic of new beginnings and the start of a new journey, it can be a beautiful way to infuse meaning into your special day.

Summer weddings are loved for their vibrancy and the energetic atmosphere they bring. With longer and warmer daylight hours, couples can enjoy the outdoors and celebrate with their loved ones comfortably into the night. The bright colours and fragrant blooms of summer also lend themselves perfectly to wedding decor, adding freshness and charm to the occasion.

Winter weddings posses a special kind of enchanting charm. The colder climate provides an opportunity for cozy and intimate celebrations. With fewer distractions, couples can focus on creating an ambience of warmth and closeness. This can be achieved through styling choices, like rich colour palettes, and other creative touches like candlelit ceremonies and intricate lighting arrangements.

So if you’re quarrelling over which season is right for you, consider the beauty of nature, the weather conditions, and the symbolic significance each season carries and let it guide you in creating a wedding that truly reflects your love and personal style.

06/07/2023

• Four-legged guests •

For many dog owners, including their furry friend in their wedding will seem like a natural choice. Our dogs are, after all, beloved members of our families. But before you invite your four-legged companion to be part of your special day, there are some important factors to consider to ensure a seamless experience for everyone, including your pooch.

♡ It may sound obvious, but start by checking the policies of your wedding venue. Some locations may have restrictions or guidelines regarding pets on the premises.

♡ Evaluate your dog’s temperament and training level. Weddings can be overwhelming, with crowds, noises and unfamiliar surroundings. If your dog becomes easily stressed or anxious in such situations, it may be best to reconsider their participation.

♡ Consider any guests’ allergies or phobias related to dogs. You want to create a safe and inclusive environment so that your wedding is memorable to guests for the right reasons.

♡ Decide on your dog’s role in the wedding. Will they be a ring bearer, walk down the aisle with you, or simply be present during the ceremony? Determine the level of involvement based on your dogs comfort and capabilities.

♡ Assign someone responsible to handle your dog’s needs throughout the day, including bathroom breaks and feedings.

♡ If you are dressing your dog up in a special outfit, be sure to introduce them to the outfit well in advance to allow them to get accustomed to it.

♡ Hold a rehearsal with your dog, practicing their role and familiarising them with the wedding venue. This will help your dog acclimate to the environment and feel more comfortable on the actual wedding day.

What have your experiences been like including pets in your wedding celebrations?

28/06/2023

• Love unveiled •

Where two hearts intertwine, magic sparks to life. In the embrace of marriage, we discover a world where love shines its brightest.

15/06/2023

• Just married •

Here’s to the start of your happily ever after!

Together, you will navigate the winding roads of life, embracing every twist and turn with strength and unity.

From the moment you say, "I do," your lives will be transformed into a tale of love and companionship. It's a moment that marks the start of your shared adventure filled with laughter, joy, and endless possibilities.

07/06/2023

• Tracey + Tony •

Officially T²!

This ceremony was chock-full of so many special moments, I wouldn’t be able to pick just one. So much laughter and joy. How good is celebrating love with everyone who loves you?!

Thank you to the smashing couple for picking me as their celebrant. Here’s to the continuation of your love story.

31/05/2023

• 💘 •

25/05/2023

• Writing your vows •

Thinking of writing your own vows? Summing up your love and commitment to your partner in a brief moment is a big task. It may feel daunting, but it is absolutely worthwhile. It’s a chance to share your unique journey, let your guests in on what makes your relationship tick, and speak from the heart to the person who holds yours.

If you are up for the challenge, here are a few things you may want to include in your wedding vows:

♡ Mention what you love the most about your partner. This is your opportunity to celebrate their special qualities and highlight the reasons why you fell in love with them. Think about the aspects of their personality, character, and other traits that captivate you.

♡ Express how your partner has made your life better. What positive impact have they had on you? Consider the ways in which they have enriched your life, brought you joy and happiness, and made each day more fulfilling.

♡ Reflect on your past, your present and hopes for your future together. This allows you to acknowledge the journey you have shared, appreciate the present moment, and express your aspirations for the life you will build together.

♡ Describe what marriage means to you. Articulate the depth of your lifelong commitment, and your promise to weather the storms of life together. Talk about the significance of choosing each other every day, knowing that your commitment is not taken lightly, but rooted in a deep and abiding love.

♡ Share stories. This creates a more vivid picture of your relationship. And it doesn’t all have to be mushy - quirky is good too! Now is a good time to share a funny anecdote for some comedic relief and connection with your guests.

18/05/2023

• Winter whimsy •

And just like that the cooler weather is upon us! Recall that one of the simplest ways to stay on budget as you plan your wedding is to shop for what’s in season. This includes both your florals and the food you will serve to your guests.

In terms of the flowers that are in season during winter in Australia, look out for red poppies, double tulips, sweet peas, and a personal favourite, buttercups, such as the ones pictures. You may opt for hyacinths, which come in an array of colours to suit your palette. And fear not - for those wanting something a little more traditional, orchids, carnations and roses are in season too. What all these flowers have in common is that indirect sunlight is enough for them to blossom big and beautiful.

As for food, winter months can make sourcing fresh produce a little more difficult. You’ll likely want to serve your guests something warm and comforting, so think squash, leeks, potatoes, silverbeet and spinach, all of which can be used in a variety of delicious soups. Lemons, oranges and mandarins are your go-to for winter fruits. These work a treat when added to mulled wine and cider recipes.

10/05/2023

• The littler guests •

Let’s have a moment for the younger guests who may (or may not!) have a place in making your day a very special one. Whether you are including a flower girl and page boy in your wedding ceremony, or incorporating children of your own, no doubt they will be the ones to truly steal the show and add extra sweetness to your day.

03/05/2023

• After party attire •

Choosing your wedding gown is an exciting part of your wedding planning and no doubt it will be the real showstopper of the day. But for those seeking an added touch of extravagance, or wanting a little more wiggle room to dance the night away, an outfit change for your reception may be an option worth considering.

For their reception outfit, many brides choose something more casual such as a shorter cocktail dress, or even a romper like the unique number shown here. Picking something cost-effective and that you are less sentimental about means you won’t mind if outfit number 2 comes out of the night a little worse for wear.

Is an outfit change something you would consider?

26/04/2023

• Proper footing •

19/04/2023

• Wedding budget blueprint •
It’s no secret that wedding planning can be costly. As couples excitedly plan for their special day, it becomes all too easy to get caught up in wanting everything to be just right and just so, even if that means paying more for things you really don’t need. Some will find it difficult to compromise. If you want to plan your wedding without blowing your budget, there are some simple strategies that will help you keep costs down and avoid long-drawn-out wedding debt.

♡ Above all else stick to what’s important and forget the rest. Your wedding, your terms. You don’t have to incorporate all of the standard bells and whistles just because they are popular or customary. As a rule of thumb, if it isn’t significant to you, you can probably do without it.

♡ Consider seasonality. Whether you’re picking your menu or your flowers, seasonal varieties will always be more affordable and easier to find and price compare.

♡ From your celebrant to your photographer and caterers, hire vendors local to your area. Not only will you be supporting businesses in your community, but by eliminating needless travel costs, you can save a tremendous amount of money.

♡ Keep fashion cyclical by renting or borrowing your wedding garments (because the truth is, that $5,000 wedding dress will very likely live in your closet forevermore). Renting and borrowing are more sustainable options for the environment and for your pocketbook.

Stay tuned for more budget-friendly tips in the weeks to come. What others have you heard of?

12/04/2023

• A tip for your wedding day •

I often have people ask me about the sort of advice I give my couples on their wedding day. I have a few guiding principles, but foremost, it’s this: Try to be in the moment as best you can. All of the frantic planning in the lead up to your wedding eventually culminates in the best day of your life, spent with your dearest friends and family. That said, it will also go by very quickly, and you’ll probably wish you could do it all over again. Trust in the fruits of your planning labours. Relax, and do your best to soak up as much of the day as possible.

05/04/2023

• Paul + Michelle •

Thinking back to the nuptials of Paul and Michelle today. They were married at the beautiful Embers of Landers Shoot in a poignant and lighthearted ceremony that really captured their good nature. It was a very special celebration of their love and commitment to one another, one which I felt thankful to be apart of and will remember fondly.

28/03/2023

• Something blue •

20/03/2023

• POV •

… You’ve just married the love of your life in front of your closest friends and family and now it’s time to sprint to the after party!

Not pictured: me, following along and making sure that all the t’s are crossed and i’s dotted so that you can focus on enjoying the best day of your life. It’s what I do, and I love it.

14/03/2023

• Paul + Michelle •

Congratulations to these beautiful newlyweds who I had the pleasure of standing alongside on the most profound day of their lives together. It was a picturesque day in Landers Shoot, surrounded by their nearest and dearest loved ones. They are now off to Singapore to celebrate on their honeymoon. Bon voyage!

08/03/2023

• Elopements •

As much as I love a big wedding with all of its traditional bells and whistles, elopements are becoming more and more popular. And for my part, there’s something about an intimate elopement that the good old fashioned romantic in me can’t resist.

There are all sorts of reasons why a couple may choose to elope. Perhaps a big wedding ceremony just doesn’t feel “right”. One of the charms of an elopement is that it allows you to focus your attention (and your resources) on what matters most to you.

It also means you won’t need to hire as many vendors - maybe only a photographer and a celebrant who can get on board with your hush-hush endeavour. Fortunately, I can keep a secret like no other. 😉

If you and your partner are considering eloping, reach out to inquire about a legals-only wedding today.

01/03/2023

• Fall florals •

Autumn is officially upon us and with a new season comes a new colour palette to inspire your wedding styling and decor.

As we move away from summer, autumn has the unique ability to make us yearn to feel cozy and warm. Bring this warmth to your floral arrangement by choosing rich shades of orange, chai, gold and burgundy (or yellow if you’d like to pay homage to the not so distant summer sun). Strawflowers, celosia and dahlias will be in season, but you can always up the ante by incorporating branches or fiddlehead fern for a moodier, darker look and feel.

What colours best represent autumn to you?

21/02/2023

• Benefits of a civil celebrant •

Are you thinking of hiring a celebrant to perform your special event or ceremony? Here are but a few of the special advantages of incorporating a celebrant.

♡ Celebrants bring a truly PERSONAL touch to your special day. We work with each couple to create a ceremony that is heartfelt and unique to them. Just as no two couples are the same, no two ceremonies are the same either.

♡ Celebrant ceremonies afford FLEXIBILITY. We can incorporate different aspects of tradition, religion, culture, spirituality, or, if you’re a real free spirit, none of the above! Ceremonies can be performed throughout the year on any day of the week.

♡ Celebrant ceremonies are VERSATILE and can take place at a venue of your choosing - indoors or outdoors, publicly or privately. In the case of weddings, this is regardless of whether or not the venue holds a marriage license.

Importantly, your celebrant is chosen by you. You can select someone that you connect with and who feels like the right person to make your day a memorable one. If you’re curious and would like to ask any questions, get in touch to book your consultation today!

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5am
Friday	9am - 5pm
Saturday	9am - 5pm