Expressions of Trust and

Encouragemet

Words of Support/Client Testimonials

The following excerpts and Testimonials reflect the belief in my capability, reliability, and compassion as a 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. 

Moments That Matter.

Heartfelt Testimonials

Chris was everything we could have hoped for in a celebrant and more. From the very beginning, her communication was clear, warm, and reassuring, which made the whole process feel effortless and stress-free.

What truly stood out was the level of care and effort she put into making our ceremony feel uniquely us. She took the time to really get to know us, our story, and what mattered most, and it showed in every word she delivered on the day. The ceremony felt incredibly personal, genuine, and full of heart, exactly what we had dreamed of.

Chris carried herself with such professionalism throughout, while still creating a relaxed and meaningful atmosphere. So many of our guests commented on how beautiful and authentic the ceremony was.

We are so grateful to have had Chris as part of our wedding. She played such a special role in making our day unforgettable, and we couldn’t recommend her more highly

. Abi & James ‍ ‍

——————————————————————————————

Kia Ora Chris,

I am sorry it has taken me so long to thank you again for being the most amazing celebrant for our elopement.

You have an amazing gift with words and storytelling, and I am so delighted that I found you for our special day! 

Stephanie and Troy

————————————————————————-

A simple ceremony made unforgettable – from ‘just paperwork’ to a cherished memory.

A huge thank you from us for making our marriage ceremony so special. It was a simple paperwork affair in our minds, but actually your kindness, warmth, and empathy made it feel really special and wonderful and we are very grateful. You really did make the day for us and we felt lucky to have you and will forever remember you.

Thank you so much once again.

‍ ‍—————————————-‍ ‍

Chris was such a joy to work with in curating our wedding ceremony and being that special person to marry us. Chris was so easy to talk to, share our story with and guide us through the process of things.

We are so grateful that our paths crossed and we couldn't recommend her more for anyone needing a celebrant for their wedding.

Her thoughtfulness, care for detail and sensitivity she exuberated through the entire process was just amazing.

We felt at ease instantly upon meeting her. The way she wrote our story and shared this as part of our ceremony was truly beautiful. We will never forget the way she added to our special day and made the ceremony full of warmth, love, and joy.  

Ash and Joe.

—————————————-

We couldn’t have asked for a more amazing celebrant than Chris. She married us at Te Puna Quarry Park, and from the moment she arrived, she went above and beyond, even helping us set up before the ceremony.

Chris created the most beautiful, personalised ceremony that truly reflected us as a couple. It was filled with so much love, warmth, and plenty of laughter, which made the whole experience feel relaxed and genuinely us.  So many of our guests commented on how special and heartfelt the ceremony was.

If you’re looking for a celebrant who is organised, caring, professional, and able to create a ceremony that feels meaningful and joyful, we absolutely recommend Chris. She made our day unforgettable

Shari and Steven

‍ ‍—————————————-

Chris was an outstanding celebrant who created a ceremony that was personal, meaningful and suited us perfectly!!

Her warmth and professionalism made the entire process stress-free and genuinely enjoyable.

We would highly recommend Chris to anyone looking for a celebrant who truly cares and delivers a beautiful experience.

Thanks again so much, Chris. It truly was a perfect ceremony that was well-suited to us.

All the best.

Simon and Kara

‍ ‍—————————————-

We’re still riding on the high of the wedding day! It truly was the best day
“Chris was absolutely amazing to work with. We did not give her too much notice; however, she showed a genuine interest in our love story, and nothing was ever too much of a hassle for her. She made us both feel so comfortable and was very accommodating to our toddler as well.”

We couldn’t have asked for a better celebrant.

Alannah & Oscar

‍ ‍—————————————-

We had the absolute pleasure of having Chris as our ceremony celebrant, and we couldn’t be happier with the experience. Despite our short-notice invitation, you accepted with grace and enthusiasm, making everything feel effortless and stress-free for us.

Throughout the ceremony, you carried yourself with professionalism and warmth, making the moment feel personal, meaningful, and beautifully put together. Your calm presence and thoughtful guidance helped us relax and enjoy every second.

We are genuinely grateful for your dedication and the care you put into our special day. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a celebrant who goes above and beyond!

Thanks,

Yash and Harshita

‍ ‍—————————————-

Getting married in New Zealand was one of the most beautiful and meaningful experiences of our lives. As a couple from different backgrounds, this moment was truly special especially for me, as it was my first time living in New Zealand and experiencing everything so new and exciting.

We were incredibly lucky to have Chris guiding us through the entire process. From the very beginning, Chris made everything feel so easy, organised, and stress-free. Her calm and professional approach gave us confidence, and her warmth and kindness made us feel supported every step of the way.

Because of her help, we were able to focus on what really mattered our love and the joy of starting a new chapter together. Our wedding day turned out even more perfect than we could have imagined, and it’s a memory we will treasure forever.

Thank you, Chris, for making our special day so smooth, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

With love,

Harsharn & Ponboonya

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.