Ceremonies

What was a ceremony?

Ceremonies were private events that involved a life transition. Here was the invitation to participants: I, Niki, may be able to act as a celebrant in a ceremony that you host.

I am happy to discuss with you ceremonies for naming a baby, a new home, or an important transition in your life or the life of someone close to you. I cannot do ceremonies for marriages, civil unions or funerals.

Please note that I have completed a short course for celebrants, but I have no prior experience as a celebrant. I will do my best to help make it a meaningful and special occasion.

Prior to us deciding to go ahead with a ceremony, we will have at least one discussion to make sure the ceremony will work for both of us.

Was there a fee?

There was no fee. Participants needed to pay all the other costs involved in the ceremony and organise a location.

What was the research aspect of the ceremony?

Here was the information provided to participants: I will take observational notes during ceremonies and write reflections on what happened and what could be improved at the end of each ceremony. I will read out this statement at the beginning of the ceremony to let people know about the research aspect. I will also send you a copy of the statement to include in the invitation to attend. Ceremony hosts will receive this information sheet and be asked to sign this consent form. As a host, I will ask you to provide some information on yourself and what you hope to get from a ceremony and take notes on our discussions before and after the ceremony.

Even after you have signed the consent form you can still withdraw any data that relates to you, up until a specified time. All data will be de-identified so that you, or your particular ceremony, cannot be recognised in any research outputs.