How I work with you
I take time to get to know you, to find out what is most important to you, any likes or dislikes, special needs or limitations of the venue.
If you have strong ideas about what you want, or are looking for more advice, I will give as much guidance as you need.
I am friendly, understanding and encouraging, with an appropriate sense of humour to suit the occasion. Professionalism and attention to detail are very important to me. I set myself high standards and each detail is carefully thought through.
Also important to me are the values of respect and fairness in financial matters. Big occasions can get expensive and I am happy to be affordable.
Above all, I would like you to find planning your ceremony with me an enjoyable, positive experience.
I regard planning and leading a ceremony an enormous privilege and one which I never take lightly. I pride myself on looking after you, as I would like to be looked after myself.
Why do you need a celebrant?
As your celebrant, I take charge of the ceremony from beginning to end, so you can concentrate on what’s important. As well as creating and leading a beautiful ceremony, I keep an eye on the time and make sure everyone is feeling OK and where they need to be. I always think of the practicalities and possible pitfalls, that you may not have considered.
On the day, I will be calm, collected and smiling, so you can relax.
About Alicen Dines
I started as a wedding registrar with the Dorset Registration Service in 2014. In 2015, I trained as a funeral celebrant and set up as a private, independent celebrant for all ceremonies in 2016.
Previously, I worked as a presentation skills trainer for British Airways, helping people deliver a great speech – and enjoy it. If you have a speech to give and are worried in any way, just contact me to discuss some speed coaching.
I started my career as a PR consultant, promoting everything from Gillette razors, to Walkers shortbread. It involved organising events and meeting all kinds of people, so I learned a lot about life from different perspectives.
I completed a two year counselling skills course, which together with my a degree in English Literature and an interest in world religions, have proved very helpful to my work.
I live in Bridport, Dorset with my husband, two children, two cats and one dog.