Sue's Ceremonies Wedding

My Story

Celebrancy has been bubbling away and evolving in me for a very long time. As I look back, my skills, life experiences, and career choices have all laid the foundation for this special role that I feel so excited to be embarking on.

Back as far as childhood speech and ballet lessons, and growing up with my mother’s mantra that ‘everyone has a story’ - these things were all building something within me. Raising two children to be awesome adults and walking their life journey, the death of my first husband and mother in my 40’s, and journeying now with my father in his late 80’s, have all taught me so much about love, life and death.

I spent 17 years in real estate, and was energised daily by helping people make one of their biggest life decisions. Over the last 10 years, I have been privileged to volunteer regularly in Vanuatu at a Training Centre and onboard a Medical Ship. Working within another culture has given me a greater ability to see things from another perspective and think outside the square. I believe I am wired to get alongside people, hear their story, and help them achieve their outcome.

In 2012, very close friends asked me to lead a funeral service for their daughter – this led to involvement in three funerals and three weddings for family and friends. Each time was a huge honour, and each time something in me came alive to this calling, prompting me to explore it further.

In 2022 I began training with the NZ Celebrants Training College and am now a Registered Independent Celebrant, and member of the Celebrants Association of NZ.

I love the simple things in life, and inspiration for ceremonies often comes to me while out enjoying creation. My cup is full when walking the beach, watching the sunset with my husband, raking leaves in our garden, or hanging out with family and friends. I truly value simplicity and quality time.

I recently attended my first tangi on a marae. I think I am a traditionalist at heart – I love the ritual and ceremony that mark significant occasions, and I honour our Māori and Island cultures for how well they do this.

So, if you are looking for someone to weave the story of you or your loved one, into a beautifully crafted ceremony - I would love the opportunity to see if we are a good fit.

Sue Hunt-Orr

Testimonials

‘One of the most precious things we can do is to honour and celebrate our highs and lows in life with those we love.’

Sue