My name is John Twining and I am based in South Yorkshire. Before I trained as a celebrant, I was a teacher for over 25 years. I worked in primary and secondary schools and you could say I ‘majored’ in special educational needs during the later years . This has given me an appreciation of how crucial clear communication is. As well as the diversity amongst us and the importance of patience, empathy and consistency with not just children but people in general.   It has also shown me the need for flexibility and creativity.

I am trained and registered with the UK Society of Celebrants (UKSOC). UKSOC is nationally affiliated with The Celebrant Charter, The National Secular Society, Celebrant Media, The Celebrant Register, Wedding Celebrancy Commission and supports independent celebrants in wedding law reform.

I hope to be as flexible as possible , letting you decide where and when you want your ceremony held and accommodating all your needs. I take huge pride in my work. I pay attention to detail and my priority is to ensure you have the ceremony of your dreams. I have a love of creative writing and having taught a lot of literature for years I use my background and knowledge to help you create the most unique ceremony for you and your family.

I set up Swansong after retiring from teaching and hope to give to others the service that I would like for myself. I enjoy being around people and those who work with me say I am passionate and hardworking and I always try to be non-judgemental and supportive.

I have three children, a cat and two grandchildren and enjoy spending time with my family. When I get time outside of work in the summer months I like to get out into the Peak district on my motorbike, tinker in my home workshop and best of all - go travelling with my wife.