Hello Lovelies,
So today I’m back with some very useful information from the lovely Helen Schrader. She’s one of Dubai’s most popular wedding celebrants and has been working the UAE wedding circuit for years. Lets just say she’s loved by everyone she meets, and has one of those reputations that often starts with ‘Ah, I know Helen, she’s so lovely’. You get the idea 🙂
Why did you become a celebrant?
I have always been a people person and ran my own businesses in Australia in the food industry. I really enjoy connecting people in business and this seemed like a natural progression.
What’s the best bit about your job?
It’s a happy job! I am lucky enough to meet people at such an exciting and special time in their relationship. Especially in the UAE couples come from such a variety of countries and cultures, it has been an amazing learning experience. I am often moved by couples’ extraordinary stories and the history that has brought them to this stage in their relationship. It is such a privilege to be part of the celebration of their love for each other.
How many weddings do you conduct a year?
In addition to wedding celebration ceremonies, I conduct renewal of vows for couples celebrating a wedding anniversary; also baby naming ceremonies. Currently between 45 – 60.
What sort of couples hire a celebrant? Can you be any religion?
A wonderful mix of couples from all faiths, cultures and backgrounds; as this is a non legal ceremony couples are free to incorporate marriage customs, symbolic rituals and blessings that are meaningful to them and engage their family and friends – creating unforgettable memories.
Is there any paperwork involved?
Fortunately, no paperwork is involved as the couple would have completed their legal marriage paperwork prior to the wedding celebration. I do make a commemorative certificate for the couple and witnesses to sign.
Is the ceremony legally binding?
As a registered Australian celebrant, I can legally marry couples anywhere in Australia. In the UAE and the rest of the world the ceremonies I conduct are a celebration of marriage vows – in essence, a reaffirmation of their legal marriage.
How far in advance should you book?
I take bookings nine months prior to the event. At the other end of the scale I have been known to conduct ceremonies with one day’s notice!
How much do you charge?
The fee depends on the location, the complexity of the ceremony and if I am to work with a translator. I also conduct ceremonies in other countries – From 2,200 Dirhams in the UAE.
How do I get in touch?
Easy! You can email me or give me a call any time.
Website: www.helenschrader.com – Email: helen.schrader@gmail.com – Phone: +971 50 207 1511
https://www.facebook.com/uaecelebranthelenschrader
https://instagram.com/helenschrader_celebrant/
The photographers who took all the beautiful pictures…
www.studiok.ae, http://itsmyphoto.com.au, www.violetstudio.com, www.mark swaroop.com, www.melrish.com, www.shijiulleri.com, http://www.thestudiodubai.com/weddings/, www.blueeyepicture.com, www.johnelphinstonestirling.com, www.jacquinightscales.com, www.weddingphotographerdubai.me, www.lizjvr.com, www.goldfishdubai.com, www.mariasundin.com, www.ainounaayad.com