Article by Mani Gregson and Isabel Dykins

A local wedding-enthusiast from Macclesfield is fast approaching her three year anniversary of setting up her own celebrant business.

Sally Dykins set up Toast in September 2019 to create and deliver ceremonies for weddings, vow renewals and baby namings throughout the UK.

After being made redundant from her previous job of 15 years, it was perfect timing for a career change; she had recently attended a wedding, conducted by a celebrant, and found herself overwhelmed with one thought: 'I want to do this job.'

So she booked a course, qualified as a celebrant and performed her first wedding in June 2021.

Macclesfield: This portrait of Sally was snapped by Bollington photographer Charlotte Palazzo. (Image - Charlotte Palazzo / @charlottepalazzophoto)

Like most other businesses in this industry however, the pandemic hit Sally hard as lockdown meant no ceremonies could be held. She had to work through almost two years of rescheduling and rearranging weddings, sometimes three or four times!

Despite the isolation, Sally explained how she has made strong connections and friendships with the suppliers from Macclesfield, building an incredibly supportive local community. 

"Macclesfield is such a supportive community - it's not about the competition with other celebrants in Macc, it's more like community over competition," said Sally. 

"I love every day of my job."

As well as her dayjob, Sally is also a keen reader of Macclesfield Nub News. (Image Credit - Fly on the Wall Photography / Instagram @flyonthewallphotography1)

Even though she has been doing it for almost three years, she is still just as motivated and passionate as in the beginning and certainly doesn't see herself stopping anytime soon.

"I think I have the best job in the world where I get to meet the most amazing people," she added.

"I feel so privileged to help people to celebrate their milestones and share their love stories with their family and friends.

"If you are looking for a bespoke ceremony, which is personal, memorable, plus full to the brim of love and laughter, please do get in touch."

The former Personal Assistant proudly serves the Macclesfield area, and has the highest celebrant qualification in the UK.

Macclesfield: You can find more about Sally and book her for your event by visiting her website.

You can also follow her on Facebook.

(Image credits: Link and link)

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