Michael Brierley

I originally became an ordained minister because I felt a genuine calling to support people through some of the most important and emotional moments of their lives. I’ve always been someone who values connection, meaning, and storytelling, and becoming ordained gave me the opportunity to turn that into something purposeful.

Whether it’s celebrating love, honouring a life, or marking a new beginning, I wanted to be able to create ceremonies that truly reflect the individual — not something generic, but something personal, inclusive, and meaningful. Being an ordained minister allows me to stand alongside people in those moments and help them feel seen, respected, and understood.

At its heart, it wasn’t just about the title — it was about making a difference, giving people a voice in their own stories, and creating moments they’ll carry with them forever.

Fleetwood Lancashire

What I hope to achieve through my ordination is the ability to support and guide people through some of life’s most meaningful moments in a way that feels truly personal, inclusive, and authentic.

I want to create ceremonies that reflect the individuals at the heart of them — whether that’s weddings, vow renewals, naming ceremonies, or celebrations of life — ensuring each one is tailored, respectful, and genuinely meaningful rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I also bring a deeper understanding of the importance of feeling seen, respected, and represented. I know how much it matters to have ceremonies that reflect who you truly are, and I’m passionate about creating safe, welcoming spaces where everyone feels valued and included.

Ultimately, my aim is to make every ceremony a true reflection of the people it’s for — creating moments that are not only memorable, but also meaningful and empowering.

I would describe my approach as open, respectful, and inclusive rather than tied to one specific religious tradition. My focus is on the people I’m working with and what feels meaningful to them, whether that includes faith, spirituality, a mix of beliefs, or none at all.

I have a great deal of respect for all religions and traditions, and I’m always happy to incorporate elements of faith into a ceremony where it’s important to the individuals involved. At the same time, I’m equally comfortable leading non-religious or alternative ceremonies that focus purely on personal values and connection.

For me, it’s about creating a space where everyone feels comfortable, respected, and represented — allowing each ceremony to reflect the beliefs, identities, and wishes of those at its heart.

What makes my ceremonies special is how personal and people-focused they are. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all scripts — every ceremony I create is built around the couple, their story, and what truly matters to them. I take the time to get to know who they are, how they met, what they value, and what they want their day to feel like, so the ceremony becomes a genuine reflection of their relationship.

I also bring a calm, supportive presence to what can sometimes be a stressful day. My role isn’t just to officiate, but to guide, reassure, and help couples feel comfortable and confident in the moment, so they can fully enjoy it.

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, inclusivity is at the heart of everything I do. I understand how important it is for people to feel seen, respected, and celebrated exactly as they are, and I ensure that every ceremony is a safe, welcoming space for all identities and backgrounds.

Ultimately, it’s the combination of authenticity, care, and attention to detail that makes my ceremonies stand out — they’re not just events, they’re meaningful moments that truly belong to the couple.

I cover all of the Northwest but my main areas are Lancashire

In addition to officiating ceremonies, I see my role as offering support, guidance, and reassurance throughout the entire process. From the first conversation to the day itself, I work closely with each couple or family to ensure everything feels right, personal, and stress-free.

I provide fully bespoke ceremonies, taking the time to understand each person’s story, values, and vision. This includes help with writing vows, structuring the ceremony, and offering ideas or suggestions if needed, while always ensuring the final result feels authentic to them.

I’m also flexible and adaptable, able to work with a wide range of beliefs, cultures, and traditions. Whether someone wants something traditional, modern, spiritual, or completely unique, I’m there to make it happen in a way that feels meaningful.

Above all, I aim to create a warm, supportive experience where people feel comfortable, heard, and confident — not just on the day of the ceremony, but throughout the entire journey.