Filitsa Kounias is an authorised marriage celebrant renowned for crafting bespoke ceremonies that truly reflect her clients. With a soulful and free-spirited approach, Bohemian Spirit Ceremonies offers personalised experiences ranging from weddings to celebrations of life.
Tell us about yourself and Bohemian Spirit Ceremonies.
Bohemian – a person who is interested in artistic and unusual things, for example art, music, or literature, and lives in an informal way that ignores the usually accepted ways of behaving. This sums me up nicely – it also sums up Bohemian Spirit Ceremonies. I am an authorised marriage celebrant, my ceremonies embody a soulful, free-spirited approach. From vow renewals under the full moon, to destination elopements and petite weddings, each ceremony is unique and magical.
I grow all my own herbs and flowers for my ceremonies in my quaint bohemian garden – I call it Villa Bohemia – and, as I have a love of mythology and ancient rituals, these elements play a sacred role in each ceremony; a water ritual for new beginnings, a grounding ritual for strength and vitality – the possibilities are endless and meaningful for each ceremony.
A sacred union, a special bond, soul mates, best friends, lovers and everything in between. My approach is intuitive and aligned with those I am guiding and working with.
What has been the most challenging aspect of starting/owning Bohemian Spirit Ceremonies?
Finding the space in my day to day to do all the things I love – especially when it comes to learning, researching and experimenting. I am always trying to sneak pockets of time to read a book (or four … just this month).
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I am the head gardener at Villa Bohemia, so that means that my feet are always dirty, there are always seeds in my pockets and dried herbs hanging in most rooms. I am also that person who photographs her plants. I absolutely love taking photographs! In fact, I used to have my own darkroom and spend hours developing photos. Now I rely on my Fuji and my iPhone as they give me heaps flexibility. One is usually around my neck and the other in my pocket.
What is the best piece of career or business advice you have ever received?
There is always another adventure, or another dream to follow and possibilities everywhere.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for Bohemian Spirit Ceremonies?
2024 is nearly fully booked for ceremonies with only a handful of spaces available, including a select few magical elopement packages. This year, I have also created a manifest of bespoke creative workshops and petite-retreats. I will be sharing these experiences in my garden, taking them to a magical place on Magnetic Island and hosting them abroad later in the year.
This year also brings a new approach to pre-wedding rituals that are designed for sacred connection and spiritual grounding, each one crafted for your own unique journey.
Main image – Filitsa Kounias
Images Credits – All images supplied.
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