Festive “CELEBRANTIONS” at The TCS Sydney Christmas Party

December 23, 2023

’Tis the season for celebrant folly

It’s not really Christmas until you’ve sent-off the busy year with some of your best work colleagues. With that in mind, NSW Local Leader Alison Pickel (with some help from party planner extraordinaire Stephen Tasselli – thanks Stephen!) organised her first official Celebrant Society event since taking over the role in October.

With a swipe of lippy to match her red Santa hat, Alison set off on a balmy December evening to rendezvous with some TCS crew at The Winery in Surry Hills.

The festivities kicked off in style as Jo Booth adorned an adorable reindeer hat, fully embracing the whimsy of the silly season. It didn’t take long before everyone was imbued (imbibed?) with Christmas spirit, thanks to some delicious ‘Giggly Rose’ cocktails and sparkling wine. Though Lillian Lyon was upset by the name of the citrusy, slightly salty sparkling wine – “why would you call it ‘sea foam’? So unappetising!”

As we munched on salt-and-pepper squid, gourmet sausage rolls and truffled fries, it was time to vote for ‘best dressed’.

Competition was fierce, with everyone clad in their favourite Christmas kitsch. Eventually, Bev Carstairs emerged victorious in the ‘nicest outfit’ category, shimmering in her angel-inspired sparkly gold ensemble. Meanwhile, Mary Vevers claimed the title of ‘naughtiest outfit’ thanks to a seductive LBD paired with a mischievous Santa hat.

A highlight of the evening was the white elephant present swap. Gifts ranged from the highly practical, such as Ben Ager’s battery organiser and charger; Lou Killick’s chic water bottle, and Bec’s BWS gift card (a post-wedding essential!)…

To homeware faves, such as Jo’s festive apron and Alison’s new coffee mug…

Not to be outdone were perhaps the most coveted gifts of all – purely because they supported a good cause, of course, and no other reason! Lillian’s adorable puppy calendar, and Stephen’s adorable puppy calendar with bonus firemen.

As the drinks flowed and the laughter continued late into the night, promises were made to reconvene for another memorable gathering soon. The camaraderie and joy that filled the air left everyone eagerly anticipating the next meet-up.

Now, the question arises: Where should the next TCS NSW adventure take place? Send your suggestions to [email protected] and let the planning begin for the next unforgettable celebration.

Until then, as the year draws to a close, may this festive season bring you happiness. Here’s to a wonderful and safe holiday season for all! Cheers to the memories made and the ones yet to come.

Sydney celebrants featured

Stephen Tasselli
Jo Booth
Lillian Lyon
Beverley Carstairs
Mary Vevers
Ben Ager
Lou Killick
Bec Jackson

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ALISON PICKEL

Alison is THE go-to for all things Marriage Act and represents The Celebrant Society at the Attorney-General’s Department meetings in Canberra.

Widely respected as one of the best in the business, Alison is actively helping shape Australian celebrancy while supporting celebrants to navigate the legal landscape with clarity and confidence.

She also loves Buffy the Vampire Slayer, her cat Pancake, and helping two people stand up in front of their favourite humans and say, “this is my chosen person.”