After photographing over 800 weddings in my career, one of the things I observed was the way a marriage celebrant, pastor, priest, could really affect the mood of a wedding.

If the sermon was long and inaudible, the crowd came out of the church almost sleepy, a well-intended relation went on a bit too long it could get a little awkward, or if a celebrant was a little inexperienced they could be too controlling, uptight or disorganised and just create a bit of a shambles really.

I can not tell you how many times I have seen a celebrant forget the groom’s name!

I have seen it all!

So what kind of person better to choose to bring all the people who you love together to officiate your wedding (and of course guide you through the process also) than someone with experience who fills a room with joy?

Lisa Newman is one of the MOST delightful people I have ever spoken to. You know when you just feel like someone is giving you a warm cuddle with their presence, (even across the phone) this is exactly how I feel in her company.

She is organised, easy-going, and super attentive. The exact kind of person I would want to guide me through what can be a very emotional, overwhelming, and nerve-racking experience.

When we spoke she shared with me that her true passion is working with couples who value a wedding for the shared intimacy and real connection of the two people, rather than a lot of the frills and bells that can often come with larger weddings.

Now, this isn’t to say she doesn’t love the big shindigs, too, but what I love is that she is a celebrant with a difference.

Lisa has really honed in to be able to create a bespoke experience “Elopement Avenue” for couples seeking a low key and truly personal experience. 

She helps to organise the experience and hosts the wedding at her gorgeous home in the Dandenong Ranges. 

This is where Lisa’s experience can really kick into overdrive to guide a couple seeking a perhaps unconventional path!

I loved working with Lisa, and I know that the couple’s lucky enough to get her to do too (just check out her testimonials!)

Enjoy the highlights,

P