Meet the celebrant: Paul Browett

By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you… on the hunt for someone to make your marriage legal, right? You see, without someone (like a celebrant) who can declare you officially wed, all you’ll be having is a very expensive party.

Finding the right person for the job can be tricky, though, as there are lots of factors to consider. We caught up with Paul Browett, aka The Scottish Celebrant, to discover what he can bring to your day.

Who is Paul Browett?

I used to work in the corporate world and viewed myself as a bit of a leader – I was always trying to motivate others and make a difference. I was good at public speaking too. Then my twin sister fell ill. Before she passed away, she asked me to do her funeral. That remains the toughest ceremony I’ve ever done. But I knew then that being a celebrant was something I wanted to pursue.

You're now a full-time celebrant, is that right?

Yes! I started out doing it on a part-time basis, but as I began to get more and more bookings I realised it was something I could do as a career. I told myself that if I got 75 bookings maybe it could become my full-time gig. Nowadays I’m doing around 250 weddings a year!

Are you known for anything in particular?

I have a bit of banter and get to really know my couples – I probably keep in touch with them more than any other supplier during the run-up to the wedding. I am also known for my outfits. I let my couples choose what I wear, whether that’s a bold kilt or a fun suit. I like being able to fit in with their theme.

What are Paul Browett's ceremonies like?

I enjoy getting guests involved in the ceremony, as I find it helps the couple to relax. I also keep out of the ‘centre’ as much as I can so that the photographer can get those beautiful aisle shots of the couple without me in them too. My main thing is to keep things fun and engaging.

The best feedback I get from guests is when they tell me it was ‘so the couple’ – I like to think of me being one of their old pals. I really believe the ceremony is where the fun begins. It isn’t just a bit to get out of the way before the party can start.

Any favourite locations for a wedding?

Ah, I couldn’t pick just one – I love them all! I suppose it really depends on the type of wedding you want: I’ve got my favourite barns, castles, hotels and everything in between. I do particularly love an outdoor wedding, though. Glencoe is absolutely glorious.

Has anything surprised you as a celebrant?

You need to be prepared for anything. I’ve had everything from being attacked by dog ring-bearers to bridesmaids going into labour midway through the vows. One special but sad moment was when I was asked to do a wedding that had special dispensation as someone was incredibly ill in hospital.

I found out they contacted me in such a hurry because the hospital chaplain wouldn’t conduct the ceremony as they were a same-sex couple. That surprised me, as I really do believe we should all be treated the same, regardless of who you love or where you were born.

I got there in record time. And, as I carry an ‘oh sh*t kit’, I was able to give them the ceremony they wanted, with oathing stones and a handfasting.

Still looking for other suppliers too? Check out our brand-new directory for inspiration...

Your top advice?

Book your celebrant as early as possible. Most will only do one wedding per day, so if you see someone you like, pin them down. Getting your first choice celebrant is important!