Prior to becoming a celebrant, I enjoyed an interesting career as a professional musician, educator, and administrator in the not-for-profit sector. I have a Bachelor of Music degree, and have worked as a pianist for the Edmonton Opera Company and Calgary Philharmonic Chorus. I’ve worked as an accompanist and done musical theatre productions in Toronto, Calgary, Yukon, and Banff. Having played piano for many weddings, I am aware of how music affects people’s emotions and the way they experience ceremonies. As a Celebrant, I’m able to help my clients choose music for their ceremonies and contact local musicians.

In addition to my work as a musician, I earned an MBA in arts management, and spent six years as an administrator at the Banff Centre for Arts and the Banff Centre for Management. I’ve also worked in the not-for-profit sector in program management, human resources and finance management.

When I turned 40, my interest in personal and spiritual growth led me to further study at seminary, where I completed an MA in Spirituality and Ethics. Training in spiritual direction honed my listening skills, and helped me realize what a privilege it is to hear people’s stories and accompany them along life’s journey.

Following seminary, my husband and I had the wonderful opportunity to teach overseas for 4 years in the English Department at a university in Central Java, Indonesia. My cross-cultural experiences and opportunities for interfaith dialogue continue to inform my celebrant work as I relate to a wide variety of people with very different backgrounds.

In my studies and work, I have developed my public speaking ability, and through my involvement with various churches over the past 20 years, I am also experienced in preaching and leading worship services. I bring a calm, professional demeanor, and am able to engage audiences with warmth and sincerity.

When I’m not studying or working, I’m often hiking or snowshoeing in the mountains, or on the hills near my home. I also love performing beautiful music as a singer with the Calgary Philharmonic Chorus.

In my early 50s, my life journey took an unexpected twist when I injured my right hand and lost the ability to work as a pianist. Through this difficult time of transition, I began looking for new opportunities to connect meaningfully with people and make use of my previous life experiences. When I learned about the work that celebrants do, it was as if a light bulb went on, and I knew I had found what I was looking for!