Our Celebrants.
Weddings Words and Wishes was founded in 2009 by Ray Thatcher.
He conducted non-religious Wedding Ceremonies at venues in the South of France with his wife Cherry.
Sadly in April 2020 Ray passed away, His death was totally unexpected and sudden and affected all of our team.
Weddings Words and Wishes continues in the safe hands of Cherry, Ray's wife and our two celebrant teams Ian & Mandy Watson and Robert & Karen Hendry.
Ray's principals and values will continue to guide us, providing a lasting legacy for our work in the future and in the services we offer.
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My name is Cherry Thatcher my main task in the Weddings Words & Wishes team is administration and finance.
I work directly with our couples by e mail and Skype, helping to arrange the details and logistics of their ceremonies. So that on the day our celebrants can provide a professional and caring service.
I have a marketing background and have experience of public speaking and presenting, so I also work as a celebrant during busy times of the year.
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My name is Ian Watson and before retiring to France in 2012, I was a Primary School Headteacher. Originally from the West Midlands, I trained at Crewe and Alsager College of Higher Education, subsequently gaining an Arts degree from the Open University.
My teaching career in Leicestershire culminated in three Headships. In addition I was Chair of the local schools Association which involved speaking at conferences and acting as Master of ceremonies at concerts and sporting events.
I have been happily married to Mandy for 36 years and we have two grown up sons living in England. My interests include running, listening to music, enjoying the French lifestyle and exercising our dog, Mina.
I am now enjoying my time as a Marriage Celebrant in the Weddings Words & Wishes team. Together with my wife, Mandy in support, we are ready to help couples coming to our corner of France to celebrate thier wedding.
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Joining the team in 2019..
My name is Bob Hendry and I have lived in the Aude region of France since 2006. My main career was as a financial consultant with Lloyds TSB where I was involved in presentations, both large and small, professional and informal. On arrival in France I became head of first year English at a prestigious grande école in Toulouse. More recently my work has involved arranging and presenting professional seminars in the area.
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My experience of public speaking and presenting, interestingly enough, proved useful both for when I was asked to be master of ceremonies at our local wassail celebrations back in the UK and for my participation in local pantomime for many years.
I have been with my wife Karen for 37 years and we have been married for 30. I have five children two of whom are living here with us in France. Our hobbies include walking our dogs, boating, exploring the area in our camper van.
I am delighted to now be working with the Weddings, Words & Wishes team as a wedding celebrant , this being a wonderful opportunity to be involved with and celebrate a couple's special day. I very much look forward to being a celebrant at your wedding.
