Meet Emily

Hello! I’m Emily, qualified independent celebrant and founder of the Three Shires Celebrant. I’m based in the picture-perfect Peak District, where I live with my military veteran husband, and our two children.

I started my professional life as a journalist, where I developed a love of storytelling and the confidence and composure to present on live BBC radio. My career evolved into charity communications, where I further honed my interview skills, working with people from all walks of life, and being entrusted to tell their stories. In the charity sector, I’ve worked side-by-side with those celebrating life’s highs, but I’ve also supported families to whom the unthinkable has happened and helped them find their voice amidst their grief. I believe in the power of empathy, listening, and honouring every individual’s – and couple’s – unique journey.

As a former military spouse, I spent many years living overseas, bringing up my family while on the move, juggling deployments and frequent house moves. Those experiences taught me resilience, adaptability, and, above all, the ability to keep calm and carry on!

Now settled in beautiful Buxton, the inspiration behind Three Shires Celebrant comes from one of my favourite local beauty spots: Three Shires Head, where Derbyshire, Cheshire and Staffordshire meet. It’s a place that symbolises connection, and the coming together of different paths – a perfect reflection of the ceremonies I create. While the name is rooted in this special location, I’m certainly not limited to those three counties. I love to travel and can conduct ceremonies UK-wide, or further afield.

I pour my heart into creating ceremonies that are memorable, meaningful, and completely bespoke – no generic scripts, no awkward clichés, and no “insert name here” moments. I love getting to know my clients, and working together to create something unforgettable, just the way you imagined it. On the big day itself, I’m 100% reliable, bringing a calm and supportive energy to keep things running smoothly and completely stress-free.

But enough about me! I want to hear about you…