About Us
The AOIC was introduced to provide support and recognition for Independent Celebrants/Officiants.
It is a non-profit making organisation that provides its members with the chance to join together
and support each other, receive recognition from other professions and a 'group voice' to lobby
in political campaigns. Above all, the AOIC encourages its members to operate under their
own right and with their own individuality, without the constraints of a regulatory body. It
does however, have a Code of Practice that all members should adhere to.
Public Information: Our Ceremonies & The Celebrant Role
Structure
Although it is not the AOIC's belief to have a hierarchy of its members, the following Celebrants
are willing to offer advice to other members and the public on the underlined Ceremonies:-
AOIC President & Founder : Kayleigh Ward
Contact for all enquiries
I have been working as a Celebrant in Lincolnshire for some years now. I have a great
passion for my work but discovered there was no organisation to represent independents
like myself. I therefore set up the AOIC to help provide support and recognition for
its members. The AOIC aims to promote Celebrants to the public and professional
organisations whom are both reliable and renowned for their work, in their own right.
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Funeral Support - Peter Bethge
Previously a Funeral Director, Peter now works as a Celebrant specialising in
Funeral Ceremonies. His vast experience, teamed with his friendly and helpful nature,
has made him very popular within the Essex area. He is willing for any member
to contact him should they need advice on conducting a Funeral Ceremony.
Baby/Child Naming Support - Belinda Chapman
Belinda has been a professional Celebrant for many years now and is dedicated
to creating Ceremonies to Celebrate Life, especially New Life. She will do her best
to answer members questions about Naming Ceremonies, offer ideas and suggestions.
Wedding/Vow Support - Tina Bowden
A former Registrar, Tina is now an Independent Celebrant practising all over the world,
but mainly within the Norfolk area. She conducts all Ceremonies but due to her
previous experience, she is willing to offer advice on Weddings/Vows.
Commitment & Partnership Support - John McCormack
John began working as an Independent Celebrant in 2006 following some 18 years in
Parish Ministry and Hospice Chaplaincy. He has conducted many blessings following both
Register Office weddings and Civil Partnerships (including the first ever in the UK!).
Because of his experience, he is willing for anyone to contact him who needs
advice with Commitment & Partnership Ceremonies.
© Association of Independent Celebrants
