Stuart Preston | Wedding and Funeral Celebrant

Hi, I’m Stuart, your family, wedding and funeral celebrant in Northern Ireland , creating bespoke ceremonies for those important, milestone occasions throughout life.

Originally from England, I married a wonderful lady from Belfast, and in 2000, we settled in the charming seaside town of Donaghadee. Later, in 2013, we moved to Dundonald, where we continue to enjoy the warmth, hospitality, and beauty of this incredible region.

Life has been a rich tapestry of experiences for my family and me. We’ve had the privilege of living not only in Northern Ireland and England but also in South Africa, where our children were born. These diverse life experiences have given us a deep appreciation for the importance of family, culture, and the moments that bring people together. Now that our children have grown and embarked on their own adventures, we decided it was time to embrace new challenges. For me, that journey led to becoming a celebrant, a path I find incredibly fulfilling, creative, and meaningful.

With a professional background in the corporate world, specialising in people development, I’ve always been excited about helping others. Transitioning into celebrancy felt like a natural step—one that allows me to support families and individuals during some of life’s most profound moments.

Sadly, I’ve attended many funerals that lacked warmth, personal connection, and celebration. This inspired me to focus on creating ceremonies that truly honour and celebrate life in all its stages, ensuring they are as unique and special as the people they represent.

Every life event deserves a personal touch. Whether it’s your wedding day, a naming ceremony for your little one, or a celebration of a loved one’s life, my focus is to create a ceremony that feels genuine, heartfelt, and uniquely yours.

 With lots of experience in public speaking and a knack for connecting with people, I bring warmth, sincerity, and a bit of humour (where appropriate) to every occasion. I strive to make every moment meaningful, whether it’s joyful or reflective.

At the heart of my work is you. A great ceremony is one that feels authentic, reflects your personality, and resonates with everyone involved. That’s why I take the time to get to know you, your story, and what matters most to you. From the first time we meet, to the big day, I’ll be there to guide you through the process, offering ideas, support, and reassurance every step of the way.

Communicating effectively with diverse audiences, sharing meaningful stories, bringing people together, and being both engaging and empathetic—whether in moments of joy or sorrow—are skills I’ve honed throughout my career, all rooted in strong listening abilities.

I am naturally calm and practical, someone who remains steady and composed in any situation. If challenges arise, I’m the quiet presence in the background, ready to step in and help. With a creative mind and a deep passion for words, I craft expressions that burst with vibrancy, energy, and life or gently resonate with quiet reflection. As a storyteller, I work hard to create a lasting impressions on any audience.

From our very first meeting, the focus will be entirely on you and your vision. Together, we’ll create cherished memories that truly capture the essence of an individual, whether it’s for a wedding, life celebration, or funeral. My purpose is to shape, guide, and deliver your ceremony with genuine care, humanity, and respect.

Whether you’re planning a wedding that’s romantic and traditional, a fun and quirky vow renewal, or a heartfelt celebration of life, my goal is to create a ceremony that feels right for you and leaves a lasting impression on everyone present