Overview
Welcome my name is Vicki Portelli known as Symbolic Ceremonies.
One of my fondest memories (along with a host of others) is the bride who sought my help and support to write her vows. As I often do, I sent a draft example to the couple as a starting point. This bride rang me on more than one occasion to say that even with my assistance she couldn’t voice her own thoughts. Together I worked with her as she found the words she truly wanted to say. The end-result …. was absolutely, breathtaking.
My move into celebrancy seven years ago, gifted me the opportunity to work with couples choosing to seal their union through marriage. The ceremony is a mix of a love story, rituals and legal components that are woven together. The magic comes to life as I craft your story, while incorporating elements you have chosen. Resulting in a ceremony that truly reflects and celebrates your love, connection and unity.
Traditional elements of a ceremony, such as the “The Asking” remains a popular inclusion. As is, the beauty of the “Ring Ceremony”. Which brings to mind, a great story. The young groom was so anxious to get the words right as he put the ring on his beautiful bride’s finger that he started to voice them while looking at me rather than his betrothed. I reminded him to look at his bride and everyone including myself and the bride and groom burst out laughing. Such a fun, warm moment that sealed the day with smiles.
The vows are the crescendo of the ceremony. For some couples this means detailing their pledges of love and promises. For others it is exquisite simplicity that speaks volumes. I work with you to help you find your voice and your vows are placed on certificates that you read from on the day and then keep.
Couples are also offered the opportunity to incorporate rituals. Rituals gift meaning and purpose for your union and can be expressed through sand ceremonies, hand fastening, rose ceremonies, unity candles and tree planting. To name but a few!
It has also been an honour to entwine a brief memorial within the ceremony for couples that wish to remember loved ones. A poignant moment full of love, soft music and tenderness. A beautiful couple who asked for this inclusion also had me MC the cutting of the cake at the conclusion of their ceremony. I had all the guests cheering, whistling and laughing with joy as the newlyweds sunk the knife into the layers of rich, buttercream icing.
For some couples the short “Legals Only” version of the ceremony suits their requirements. Although this approach offers the utmost minimum, it is also important to remember that the couple are choosing to solemnise their union. This … in itself, is beautiful!
Part of my joy in being a celebrant is the fun and adventure of travelling to the couples chosen location for the ceremony. I have travelled as far north as Swan Hill, the Goldfields, outlying areas of Geelong and Melbourne. I strap in, turn on my audio book and I’m away.
All that I have shared is about you and your celebration. It is your love story, and it is your voices, that I strive to bring to life through ceremony. This is your day, and I am honoured to be selected to work with you to create moments of magic that will remain with you always.
Reviews
We wanted somebody that was creative, different & not afraid to think outside the box.
We found Vicki to exceed all that & more.
Every service is perfectly crafted & tailored to the individual and that’s what we love.
We HIGHLY recommend Vicki to anyone be it a wedding, funeral & everything in between 💛🤍💛
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Hours of Operation
By appointment.