What Did You Say?
Calling all Celebrants – weddings, funerals, and beyond: Your voice matters
In the world of Celebrancy—whether at weddings, funerals, naming ceremonies, or milestone events—your voice is your most powerful instrument. And yet, time and again, I find myself asking: What did you say? Not because I wasn’t listening, but because I simply couldn’t hear or feel the impact of the words.
As an international voice coach and professional speaker, I’ve witnessed first-hand how a poorly trained voice can diminish even the most sacred of moments. And conversely, how a resonant, confident, and emotionally connected voice can elevate an event into something unforgettable.
A Wedding to Remember – Or Not?
Recently, I had the honour of officiating the wedding of my school friend’s daughter. Their request was simple but profound: “We don’t want a celebrant who sounds like they’re pretending to know us.” They wanted authenticity, not performance. And that authenticity had to come not just from the words, but from the tone, resonance, and intention behind them.
As I led the couple through the Gathering Words, Intent, Charge, and Exchange of Vows and Rings, I knew my voice had to do more than direct—it had to emulate their love, project their commitment, and include every guest in the sacredness of the moment. This is not just speaking. This is orchestration—using pace, rhythm, pitch, volume, and projection to create a shared emotional experience.
A Funeral That Fell Silent
Contrast that with a recent funeral I attended for a dear friend and client. We gathered in one of London’s grand cemeteries, surrounded by towering tombstones and the weight of collective grief. A microphone stood ready. But when the celebrant began, their voice felt disconnected from their body and lacked resonance. Even with amplification, the words fell flat.
They attempted a passage from Shakespeare, carefully chosen for its emotional depth. But the delivery lacked clarity, intention, and power. It was heartbreaking. This man had trained his voice like an Olympic athlete and always aimed for excellence.
Your Voice Is Your Personality
The Latin root of “personality” is per sona—to sound through. Your voice is not just a tool; it is you. No gimmick—no broom-jumping or sand-pouring—can replace the emotional resonance of a well-trained voice. And yet, there’s an arrogance in the industry: a belief that voice training is optional. It isn’t.
Would a musician perform with an untuned instrument? Would a singer step on stage without warming up? Then why should a celebrant—whose job is to speak meaningfully—neglect their voice?
The Power of Preparation
When I was recently confirmed and asked to read Ephesians 3:14, I approached it with reverence and preparation. I studied the text, explored its theological depth, and rehearsed every nuance. The result? A vicar approached me afterward and said, “I have to go home and study Ephesians. I heard and understood those words like never before.” That’s the power of voice mastery.
Quick and Easy Steps to a Confident, Impactful Voice
If you’re a celebrant—or aspire to be—here are a few foundational steps to start transforming your voice:
Breathe Deeply: Your voice begins with breath. Learn diaphragmatic breathing to support your sound.
Connect to Your Body: Your body is your instrument. Posture, alignment, and relaxation are key.
Warm Up Daily: Just like athletes, your voice needs regular warm-ups— emotional connection and resonance exercises.
Practice Projection: Learn to fill a room without shouting. Use your breath and resonance, not force.
Work with a Coach: A trained ear can guide you to unlock your full vocal potential.
Introducing: V Vibration – The Method for Voice Mastery
If you’re serious about your profession as a celebrant, it’s time to take your voice seriously. Our signature method, V Vibration, is designed to help you:
Build a confident, resonant voice
Master emotional connection and delivery
Expand your client base and boost your revenue
Communicate with clarity, authenticity, and power
Whether you’re leading a wedding, a funeral, or a naming ceremony, your voice is the engine that drives the experience. Don’t let it stall.
Final Word: Your Voice Matters
To every celebrant reading this: your voice is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. It is the bridge between your intention and your audience’s experience. It is the difference between being heard and being felt.
Let’s raise the standard. Let’s honour the sacredness of life’s milestones with voices that are trained, tuned, and truly heard.
⸻
Ready to transform your voice?
Join us and discover the power of V Vibration.