Who the heck am I, and why should you trust me with one of the most important days of your life?
Hey, I'm Jess Hawkins, and I'm a big-hearted, music-loving, soppy romantic who's an absolute sucker for love.
So... who am I, and how did I end up in the wild and wonderful world of weddings?
Okay, it’s true - as soppy and cliche as it sounds, I LOVE LOVE. I can’t get enough of the stuff. Do I binge-watch Married at First Sight, Love is Blind and First Dates? Abso-bloomin-lutely. Do I cry at rom-coms and quote them shamelessly in real life? You bet I do. Did I squeeze several into my own wedding vows? Well, it would be rude not to. I live for love stories - the messy ones, the romantic ones, the funny ones, the magical ones - all of it.
You get the picture - I’m an absolute sucker for love.​​​
So, it was only a matter of time really before I found myself in the wedding world. But I didn’t start there. Raised in Scotland by English parents (imagine the accent confusion), I studied Psychology at Edinburgh Uni, then followed my love of performing to the Guildford School of Acting, where I earned a Masters in Musical Theatre (first class babyyy). Performing has always been in my bones, so I spent around eight years in London as a professional actor, touring across the UK and beyond in musicals - like Footloose opposite. (Kinda rude they only gave us 4 stars tbqh).
I don’t know whether you’ve heard or not, but the acting industry is TOUGH (shock horror). Cue endless auditions and constant rejection - yep, it’s not pretty. Whilst I had some amazing experiences on stage, I was craving something a bit more rewarding and nourishing for the soul. ​​​​
Wedding photographs by David Ruff Photography
Then, I got married in July 2023 and had a pretty big lightbulb moment - why not try my hand in the wedding industry?! A love of love? TICK. A love of performing? TICK. The enthusiasm for creating unforgettable moments? TICK. The passion and drive to empower other couples to have a wedding which is totally awesome and completely, unapologetically them? TICK.
So here I am: singer, celebrant… or both!
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I believe your wedding and your ceremony should be as unique, colourful, and unapologetically YOU as possible. I’m all about the good vibes, the laughs, the joyful tears, meaningful moments, and unforgettable memories.
I’m based in beautiful Dumfries & Galloway in South West Scotland, but I travel all over - Edinburgh, Glasgow, the Borders, Cumbria and sometimes beyond. If you think we’d make a great team, drop me a message and let’s chat!
P.S. VERY IMPORTANT. I believe everyone deserves to be loved, so rest assured that everyone is welcome here (well, unless you’re a total hater and a right douche, in which case... maybe not).​​​​
PUTTING THE MUSICAL INTO MUSICAL CELEBRANT
Let’s talk about music - because I absolutely bloody love it!
Music has this incredible power to transform, heal, and connect. It can set the perfect mood, transport you to another time and place, and bring people together like nothing else. I mean, who doesn’t love belting out a banger at the top of their lungs or throwing some shapes on the dance floor?!
Music has always been my passion. Growing up, my taste was all over the map - pop, indie, R&B, pop-punk, ska, acoustic, electronic, dance, folk-pop, neo-soul... Honestly, you name it, I probably love it!
I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. After studying Psychology at the University of Edinburgh, I couldn’t resist following my heart, so I went on to do a Master’s in Musical Theatre at the fabulous GSA (Guildford School of Acting). From there, I hit the stage, performing professionally in UK tours like Footloose - where I got to act, sing, dance, AND play instruments like the clarinet, saxophone, and keyboard right there on stage!
Speaking of instruments, my love for music didn’t stop at singing. I learned the clarinet at school and eventually picked up the saxophone, piano, flute, a little trumpet, and even the ukulele along the way. I’m also incredibly excited to be learning the bagpipes too, although I’m definitely at the beginner stage right now (it sounds like I’m strangling a bunch of cats).
One of my favourite things has always been writing music—whether it’s fun little songs for kids I worked with as a teaching assistant or more “grown-up” tunes that come straight from the heart.
Music has shaped who I am, and I can’t wait to use it to help make your special day unforgettable! ​​​
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I’m a people-loving, don’t-take-myself-too-seriously, detail-obsessed gal with a soft spot for love stories and a knack for making ceremonies feel warm, joyful and totally you. I’ll guide you through the process with care, humour, and a healthy supply of wedding wisdom (I got married fairly recently, so I get it - completely!).
With a background in music, theatre and voice work, you can trust me to deliver songs and ceremonies with confidence, heart, and just the right vibe. In terms of ceremonies, whether you’re after something relaxed and playful, or heartfelt and romantic (or all of the above!) - I’ve got ya!
Oh - and did I mention I sing? Yep, I can softly sing your aisle song or charm your guests during the drinks reception.
Looking for a celebrant and a singer? Why book two suppliers when you can book one?
Most importantly, I care. A lot. Your wedding matters to me, and I’ll do everything I can to make it unforgettable - for all the right reasons, of course!