Rachel Parkin, Birmingham Celebrant
Hello! I'm Rachel, an Independent Civil Celebrant.
I live in South Birmingham, UK with my cat, Buffy.
I've lived in Birmingham for over 25 years and I'm proud to be an adopted Brummie! I love being part of the fun, creative community of Moseley and Kings Heath.
I'm a big music fan - I sing in a local community choir, Skylarks, and I love going to gigs and festivals.
I qualified as a civil celebrant in August 2023 and conducted my first wedding in June 2024 . I've conducted ceremonies in beer gardens, barns, woodlands, and even a marina! I love helping people celebrate in their own unique style.
I'm a member of the Association of Independent Celebrants, the trade association for independent celebrants in the UK.
Photo: Phil Hayes
Meet Spuffy!
Here are my two rescue cats, Spike and Buffy, collectively known as Spuffy. They are both adorable (and yes, I'm biased!)
As a result of having cat 'flu when he was rescued, Spike developed a 'blep' where he has his tongue out pretty much all the time. He's an absolute charmer and has a devoted following!
Buffy is my little fluffy shadow. She's a typical tortie - very vocal with plenty of tortie-tude!
Footnote: Sadly, Spike passed away in January 2026. But I can't bear to take him off this page.
He was, and always will be, a legend.
My 15 minutes of fame!
You might recognise me as 'that woman who won Joe Lycett's car.'
Yes I did, and yes it was his car! It was a beautiful red Lexus which I named Judy-Lee Lycett. The whole story of how I came to win it is utterly bonkers and I'll save that for another day.
I've sold Judy-Lee and am now the proud owner of Belinda Biscuits Berlingo, which I use as a mini campervan to take me on all sorts of adventures!
Photo credit: Joe Lycett
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Funny Business
I'm a primary school teacher by profession, so I have a lot of experience of planning and delivering to meet individual needs.
I also dabble in stand-up comedy, so I'm used to working a crowd! I host a comedy night called Brew Haha! at Attic Brewery in Stirchley, Birmimgham. I like to see the lighter side of life and l can offer a fun, humorous touch to your ceremony if that's what you want.
Photo: The lineup for the Brew Haha Christmas special, featuring headliner Shazia Mirza
'Puzzling' on Channel 5
I'm a keen quizzer - as well as taking part in and hosting pub quizzes, I've appeared on 'Only Connect' on BBC 4, and on Channel 5's 'Puzzling'. That was a tough game!
Photo credit: Channel 5
This is who will be all ears when you tell me your love story.
This is who will get to the venue nice and early to check things out.
This is who will laugh with you and cry with you.
This is who knows the importance of planning for all weathers.
This is who will stay up way past bedtime perfecting your ceremony.
This is who will make sure her outfit matches your vibe.
This is who knows how important your furry friends are.
This is who will bring a bit of fun and silliness (if you want it!)
This is who will work with your wedding team to make sure you have the best day.
This is who will help make memories to treasure forever.