Policies

GDPR – Data Protection Ruling by ICO from May 2018

There are rules and regulations that govern how companies use and retain your information, as a sole trader I am not exempt from those rules and would like to explain how I will use and store your information.

What information is being collected?

If you have sent me a web contact form submission asking for my availability and asking me about my services, I will be collecting and keeping your name/email/telephone number and the relevant information about your big day.

How do I use your data?

When someone visits my website, I use a third party service, WordPress, to collect standard internet log information and details of visitor behaviour patterns. This gives me information about the number of visitors to the various parts of my site and allows me to work out where I need to make improvements.  I cannot identify or make any attempt to find out the identities of those visiting my website.

Once I have received your initial enquiry I will contact you via phone or email as requested by you, and then we will go from there.  If you decide to use my services, I will store your data so that I can work professionally with you to create your ceremony and ensure a smooth and wonderful day for you and your guests.

If for any reason you decide not to use my services I will delete your details (email/ or web contact form submission) from my inbox within 3 months of your initial enquiry; so please DO let me know if you have found a Celebrant that meets your requirements elsewhere and I will delete your enquiry within 10 working days.

Who is collecting your data?

Just me, via my web contact form submission, phone call, or email.

How is it collected?

Via my website web contact form submission, phone or email.

If you book me for your ceremony I will retain your information on spreadsheets on my personal (not shared) computer. (Devised and maintained by me, with no other third party involved) This information is also backed up onto my personal (non shared) computer and stored in the Cloud, for additional backup and security.

And finally, I create a folder in my email account for ease of communication. I will also ask you to sign a GDPR information retention document along with your contract and booking form.

Why is it being collected?

I need to retain some of your data to enable me to work with you up to your ceremony.  I need to be able to contact you in the lead up to your big day as we work together to create your ceremony.  I am happy to explain all the steps

I take in working with you and how and where your information is stored and used, at any time, so please feel free to check back if you have any questions at all.

How will it be used?

See above.

Who will it be shared with?

No one, unless you give me permission to share it.

What will be the effect of this on the individual concerned?

I hope the effect will be positive and allow us to keep in regular contact during our working relationship.

Is the intended use likely to cause individuals to object or complain?

I cannot think of a reason for objection or complaint if we are working together.  It is best practice to maintain some form of system to record details for the duration of our working relationship.

Use of Cookies

Find out more from the experts about the use of cookies here.

Most web based or internet based businesses, apps etc will use cookies in one form or another these days, the ones that spring to mind immediately are Google and Facebook analytics. These seem to be the standard “cookies” feature of all major web browsers.  You may choose to disable cookies through your own web browser’s settings however, disabling this function may diminish your experience on my website and some features may not work as intended.

Social Media

If you send me a private or direct message via any of the social media platforms, I will store the message for three months. It will not be shared with any other organisations.  Social Media that you use may well track your viewing history but please be assured they are not sending your details to me.

You’ll find links on my website to other suppliers and to sites where I am registered as a member or supplier.  These sites are not within my control and this policy doesn’t cover those links or their pages.

Affirmations and Personal Testimonials

You’ll see testimonials on my website from families who have used my services and have kindly written to me or written reviews. I manage (my Facebook, Instagram) these are kind words from couples and families who have used my services. If you are also kind enough to write to me I will be seeking YOUR permission to share your comments all over my social media and website, because it’s nice to be liked and appreciated, and to share the good feelings with others!

I am honoured to be a Member of the Fellowship of Professional Celebrants.

I am a Wedding  Celebrant who trained and qualified in October 2017 at the UK College of Celebrancy, County Durham and was trained by Terri Shanks, Founder.

I also trained with the County Celebrants Network in April 2018 for Funeral Celebrancy working to support families at their most difficult time.   (County Celebrants)