“Can I pour you a Moet?” The bride asked as we were about to depart the dock for an intimate Monday morning wedding on board “Cat Magic”, a 13 metre Privilege.. Despite being swept up in the excitement and novelty of it all, I replied “No thanks”, sticking to the rule I had set for myself since becoming a celebrant 20+ years ago -NEVER DRINK BEFORE A WEDDING.
(Interestingly, the photographer/videographer downed a glass or two before our “work” began. )
To secure this amazing gig, acquaintances – the witnesses, had suggested the bride and groom call me. I was invited to a meeting on board Cat Magic. Although meetings are usually held in my office where I have everything at my fingertips, I deemed it important to see what I might be in for… so I packed my briefcase and headed to the Mooloolaba Canal, with all the paperwork for the couple to begin the process. I boarded the yacht, and I could see that the couple were pleased with the celebrant’s agility! I asked the bride and groom how they envisioned the day to unfold. They looked at each other and gave me the run down. You could see the excitement in their eyes – it was to be a secret wedding, and a video would be shown a week later at a gathering for their family and friends. Assuming I had the gig, I produced the paperwork and got to business. Again they glanced at each other. Apparently they had invited me to check me out, not to necessarily book me on the spot, but that is exactly what they did. The clincher – asking them what they wanted…..Two celebrants had gone before me and did not think to ask the question…..
On the wedding day, there was a strong northerly. The groom /captain, together with his crew of bestman, let the mooring lines off (Music?) and guided the yacht through the canals, into the river and out into the sea ….so the plan was to anchor off the beautiful Mooloolaba Beach, have the wedding, drop off the wedding professionals at the Mooloolaba Wharf, as the bride and groom and 2 witnesses continued with their celebrations on board..
The bride, resplendent in her white capri pants and colourful top,….buzzed around dropping anchor…and the yacht found its …. Position. (mention about the music??)Give me a hint here?
With the magnificent views of Mooloolaba portside, we were somewhat sheltered by Point Cartwright peninsular on the starboard side. The bride and groom assumed their positions on the deck, I balanced precariously not far away, (thankful I had taken my Kwells) and the two witnesses were watching on with baited breath.
The photographer headed to the tip of the bow, and wedged her ample backside into the tiny triangular seat of one of the hulls, ready to video the proceedings. We were about to begin, when the photographer gasped in horror as she had dropped her microphone overboard. Matron of Honour and best man flew to the back of the boat, grabbed the fishing net and plunged it into the waters below. An experienced deckhand, she lifted the net out of the water and voila- she had the microphone caught ….water dripping from the sponge…
Luckily, the videographer had brought a second microphone and put the soaked one in her bag.
I began with the first paragraph, second, and was in midsentence when the videographer called out, “Stop! I didn’t get that” I turned and looked at her, surprised, as I had not realised we were shooting a movie – where there would be “take 2’s”. The only other wedding that was like this was my first ‘drone’ one – where we had to repeat walking to the signing table….without me this time!
When given the all clear, I proceeded with the wedding, and instead of a reading from the best man, a pre-recorded message from his alter ego, “The Reverend” was played via my amp. The surprise message was hilarious, and the bride and groom almost crippled over with laughter.
The ceremony continued, and it was time to say the vows. The bride and groom had kept their vows secret from each other, and made their own copies in 18 sized font so they could read without glasses – and asked me to pass the sheets of paper to them at the appropriate time. In passing the copy to the bride, the wind swept up and took the vows, as the bride watched her beautiful words “sail” to the back of the yacht. The bestman sprang into action and headed for the stern. He collected the vows which had wrapped themselves around the starboard side stays. He proudly brought the vows back, and handed them to the awaiting bride!
No sooner than the vows had been exchanged, than I was aware of another dart to the back of the boat by the best man. He was gone for a short time, however, returned with a smile on his face, just in time to produce the rings. He could barely contain his smirk and mirth, and I couldn’t wait to hear the most recent developments!
At an appropriate time, he whispered “I only just remembered to get the butterflies out of the fridge!” At the end of the ceremony, we headed to the stern for the signing of the register, and the release of the butterflies – another special surprise and gift from the bride and groom’s best friends and witnesses, Karen and Dave.
As the paperwork was being signed and more champagne poured, the butterflies were released to a special song…. The bride, who considers butterflies a sign of hope, endless potential, spiritual rebirth, transformation, endurance…, was overwhelmed with the gift, and the photographer was scrambling to get footage of the amazing sight. One butterfly savoured its time on the bride’s shoulder, then her hand, and then the certificate – such a special day…..and one I will always remember.
……oooo…
Thanks to Shayle and Al for inviting me to be the celebrant for this amazing wedding experience, and thanks also for becoming great friends, along with the two witnesses, Karen and Dave!
Karen, I am sure you are on a winner with this idea! Have fun recounting all the special moments you helped create xxxxx
