At Bleaklow Farm trusted suppliers shape the character of each wedding. We work with many trusted and wonderful suppliers, including celebrant Elizabeth Gensler, owner of Celebrate with Elizabeth.

She has conducted a number of ceremonies at Bleaklow Farm, each as individual as the couple.

A member of The Academy Of Modern Celebrancy, Elizabeth describes herself as ‘fun loving, sparkling, cheeky and charming’ and we couldn’t agree more. Known for her lively, inclusive style, she creates ceremonies that reflect each couple’s personality.

We caught up with Elizabeth to find out how she helps make every wedding special at Bleaklow Farm and creates ceremonies for couples that embody who “they” are.

Q: Tell us a bit about your background – how did you become a celebrant?
I actually started out as a teacher, so being organised and structured is second nature to me. That’s really helpful when you’re planning weddings because there’s a lot to keep track of. Before that, I lived abroad and worked as a holiday rep, which meant I was constantly entertaining guests. I was probably that person people either loved or avoided on holiday, getting them involved in games, quizzes, dancing… all of it.

That side of me has definitely stayed. I bring that same energy into weddings. I see myself as more of a host, making sure everyone feels included, not just the couple.

Q: How would you describe your ceremonies compared to a more traditional wedding?
There’s a really delicate balance. Of course it’s all about the couple, but the people in the room have been part of their story too. I think sometimes traditional ceremonies can feel a bit formal, and that guests are just there to sit quietly and watch.

What I try to do is make it feel shared. Bringing in personal stories, little in-jokes, moments that make people smile or laugh. It becomes something everyone feels part of, rather than just observing.

Q: How do you get to that level of detail with each couple?
It comes from spending time with them. I’ll often work with couples for a year in the lead-up to the wedding, so by the time the day arrives, there’s a real sense of trust.

They know I’ve got everything in hand, which means they can just relax and enjoy it. That’s really important – taking away any pressure so they can be fully present.

Q: What is it about Bleaklow Farm that works so well for your ceremonies?
I love it there. It’s such a beautiful, flexible space, and that makes a huge difference. Because couples have the whole place, it naturally feels more relaxed. there’s no one rushing them from one part of the day to the next.

The barn is a stunning setting for a ceremony, but equally, the house itself has so much space you could hold it indoors. And then there’s the garden and that incredible view. It really gives couples the freedom to design the day exactly how they want it, with suppliers fitting around them rather than the other way round.

Q: Bleaklow Farm isn’t currently licensed for legal ceremonies; how do couples manage that?
It’s actually really simple. Couples just go to their local registry office a week or two beforehand and complete the legal paperwork, a bit like registering a birth. I support them through the whole process, as part of my service.

Then the ceremony at Bleaklow Farm is where everything meaningful happens; the vows, the rings, the celebration. It’s very similar to how weddings abroad work.

Q: And what difference does that make to the ceremony itself?
It gives couples complete freedom. With a registrar there are specific words you have to say and certain rules you have to follow. With a celebrant-led ceremony, couples can say what feels right to them.

Because the legal part is already done, there’s a real sense of relaxation. Guests don’t know any different, but the ceremony feels much more personal and authentic.

Q: You also pay close attention to the look and feel of the ceremony. Why is that important?
For a lot of couples the aesthetic of the day really matters. They’ve put so much thought into how everything looks, the venue often being central to that, and the ceremony should reflect this too.

I’ll always make sure anything I bring – vow books, certificates, little details – fits with their overall style. Beforehand, I’ll ask about colours, flowers, invitations, even Pinterest boards. Likewise, that includes my outfit on the day. It’s about making sure everything feels cohesive and true to them.

Q: What does it mean to you personally to be part of a couple’s wedding day?
It’s a really special role. In this job, you meet these wonderful couples, you get to know them, you’re part of something incredibly important in their lives, and then you wave them off on honeymoon and life together, knowing I won’t be needed again as their next chapter has officially begun.  Between you and me, I do love the occasional social media updates though, I can’t help myself!

That’s why it matters so much that the day feels beautiful and memorable. It becomes this lasting moment they carry with them. I care deeply about that, making sure it feels exactly as they imagined, or even better.

It’s a privilege to be trusted with that and to play a part in something they’ll look back on for the rest of their lives.

Every wedding at Bleaklow Farm is different, and with Elizabeth Gensler leading the ceremony, each one feels personal, relaxed and genuinely reflective of the couple at its heart.

Start Planning Your Wedding at Bleaklow Farm

For couples looking to create a wedding that is truly personal, memorable and entirely their own, Bleaklow Farm offers the space, flexibility and setting to bring your vision to life. To find out more about hosting your wedding at Bleaklow Farm, get in touch with the team here or call 07810155366 and start planning a day that reflects you in every detail.