Expressions of Trust and Encouragement
Words of Support
The following excerpts reflect the belief in my capability, reliability, and compassion as a future celebrant. The faith that others have in my potential, along with their willingness to vouch for my character and commitment, has been both humbling and motivating. I hope these words offer a glimpse into the relationships, values, and principles that will guide my work.
Letter of Support from Brendan
Support for Chris Nickel's Application - I am writing in full support of Chris Nickel and her application to be appointed as an independent marriage and civil union celebrant. I have known Chris for over 32 years, initially in a professional capacity and later as a close personal friend.
Professional Background and Personal Qualities - Chris has consistently demonstrated a deep respect for people of all backgrounds, a quality that is essential for a role that celebrates diversity in love and life. She is empathetic and has a calm, reassuring presence – traits which are essential when guiding couples and families through significant life events such as weddings, civil unions, and other ceremonies.
Communication Skills and Professionalism - Chris is a skilled communicator, both in written and spoken forms. She brings a thoughtful and articulate manner to everything she does, which would allow her to compose and deliver ceremonies that are both meaningful and memorable. Her attention to detail, professional demeanour, and organisational skills mean she is exceptionally well-prepared to work independently and with professionalism in this capacity.
Cultural Sensitivity and Personalisation - Chris possesses the emotional intelligence and flexibility required to work with people from a wide range of cultures, beliefs, and personal circumstances. She understands the importance of tailoring each ceremony to reflect the unique values and preferences of the individuals involved.
Community Involvement - Chris has been active within the Bay of Plenty region where she has lived for most of her life. Her appointment would provide a valuable celebrant option for families and couples in this area, especially those looking for a celebrant who offers a warm, inclusive, and collaborative approach to ceremony planning.
Endorsement - In closing, I fully endorse Chris Nickel’s application for appointment as an independent marriage and civil union celebrant. I am confident she will carry out her duties with dignity, sincerity, and the highest level of care. I have no doubt she will be a credit to the celebrant profession and a resource to the community she serves.
Letter of Support from Graham
Support for Christine Penelope Nickel: Explicit support for Chris's application as an independent marriage and/or civil union celebrant.
Interpersonal Skills: Relates well to people, approachable, respectful of cultures, traditions, and beliefs, empathetic, and genuinely interested in people.
Speaking and Listening Skills: Speaks clearly and confidently, listens patiently, clarifies thoughts without being intrusive, and maintains focus.
Creative and Adaptability Skills: Creative thinker, adaptable, tailors ceremonies to bespoke needs, handles last-minute changes calmly.
Organisational Skills: Highly efficient, plans well, manages official paperwork timely, corresponds punctually, and prioritises effectively.
Endorsement: Explicit support for Chris's appointment as an independent marriage and/or civil union celebrant.
Letter of Support from Jacqueline
Support for Chris Nickel: Strong endorsement for Chris's desire to become a Celebrant for the community.
Interpersonal Skills: Chris is approachable, respectful of cultures, traditions, and beliefs, empathetic, and genuinely interested in people. She has a strong ability to converse with people and put them at ease, which leads to her confidence in public speaking.
Professional Skills: Chris has a high level of I.T. literacy, is reliable, trustworthy, and has a strong ability to learn and research information. She is also highly efficient, plans well, manages official paperwork timely, corresponds punctually, and prioritises effectively.
Personal Qualities: Chris is a person of discretion, very reliable, and trustworthy. She is adaptable and copes well with different and sometimes difficult situations and challenges.
Endorsement: Jacqueline fully supports Chris's application and believes she would excel in the role of a celebrant.
Letter of Support from Christine
Support for Chris Nickel: Complete support for Chris's application as an independent Marriage and Civil Union Celebrant.
Interpersonal Skills: Chris demonstrates a calm confidence, speaks well at group gatherings, and is the "go-to person" in her community. She listens respectfully and understands different points of view, being adaptable while living and working among a wide variation of cultures and beliefs.
Professional Skills: Chris is reliable, punctual, and acts with exceptional integrity and skill. She organises events, such as welcome gatherings, wellness checks, working bees, and celebrations. She has a special gift with words when compiling eulogies or couple's stories, done with care, wisdom, grace, and appropriate humour.
Personal Qualities: Chris recognises other people's strengths and abilities and utilises them when necessary. She is enthusiastic about the role and believes it would be meaningful and important to her.
Endorsement: Christine believes Chris has the required attributes to become a respected and popular Celebrant within the community.