YOUR CEREMONY Meet The Registrar
Justine Ouzana is a new Registrar who ’ s part of the Swale team . Here , she tells us all about her role and what inspired her to become a Registrar
Tell us about your role I ’ m part of the fabulous Swale team , which covers Sheppey , Sittingbourne and Faversham areas . I started in April 2024 and , after completing my Registrar training , I registered my first marriage in May 2024 .
As Registrar , it ’ s my role to ensure that the necessary documents are collected , kept secure and completed correctly . I conduct a brief interview with the couple on the wedding day , to double check all the information is correct , and introduce myself to the witnesses .
I work closely with the Celebrant on the day , who will carry out the ceremony , and together with the venue staff we do our best to ensure that everything goes smoothly , everyone is at ease and all the legalities are adhered to . I am super excited that I ’ ll soon complete my Celebrant training and am really looking forward to conducting ceremonies soon .
What inspired you to become a Registrar ? Several years ago , I was chatting to one of the other mums I know and she told me she was a Marriage Registrar . I instantly thought what an amazing job to have , how lovely and so incredibly special … something I ’ d never even considered doing before .
What ’ s your favourite part of the job ? Having worked at home for a long time , it ’ s been really enjoyable going out to different venues , meeting new people and working with such a lovely team .
But , my absolute favourite part is witnessing the couples saying their vows to each other and being able to congratulate them on their new venture .
Are there any weddings that are particularly memorable to you ?
Aside from my own wedding of course , it would have to be the very first wedding I registered . I was quite nervous but they were such a sweet couple and their little pug ring bearer was very cute . It was a beautiful ceremony and I will confess that I had to hold a tear or two back !
If you could offer one piece of advice to couples getting married , what would it be ?
On the day , relax and breathe … you are in good hands and will be guided through everything . And for marriage itself – celebrate each other and your achievements … be each other ’ s biggest cheerleader .
I was so excited when I came across the job advert and feel very lucky to have been chosen . Although it is a big responsibility , it ’ s also a real privilege to be able to play such an important role on such a special day .
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