How it’s going: Martin Fox Roberts – The UK’s First Drag Queen Celebrant

Part of our “How It Started/How It’s Going” series exploring the journeys of Academy of Modern Celebrancy graduates

When we first interviewed Martin Fox Roberts in 2021, he was just beginning his celebrancy journey with AMC. Now, we catch up with him during an incredible year of achievements – including an appearance on Married at First Sight UK and a triumphant turn at the 2024 Quirky Wedding Awards, where his drag queen alter ego Maria Hurtz not only hosted the ceremony but also took home the award for Inclusivity & Accessibility.

Prefer to watch? Watch Martin’s interview with AMC Celebrant Mentor Laura Crockett as Drag Queen Celebrant Maria Hurtz.

Breaking Boundaries and Celebrating Love in South East London and Beyond

Martin’s recent achievements come as no surprise to anyone who knows Martin Fox Roberts, whose boundless creativity and authentic approach have transformed the celebrancy landscape since his graduation from AMC. Based in South East London but serving couples and families across the UK, Martin has reimagined what modern ceremonies can be by bringing together his diverse talents to create truly unique celebrations – both as himself and as his glamorous alter ego, Maria Hurtz.

A Journey of Many Talents

Martin’s path to celebrancy is as colourful and diverse as the ceremonies he creates. With a background in theatre management and a passion for performing, he embodies the saying “Jack of all trades, master of none, though oftentimes better than master of one.” This philosophy has served him well, allowing him to create a celebrancy business that draws on multiple skills and talents.

“I always believe in being multi-skilled,” Martin explains, “and not just having one skill.” His professional repertoire includes working as a fully qualified and registered NRCPD British Sign Language Interpreter, performing as a drag artist, and offering couples massage – all of which he has ingeniously woven into his celebrancy services.

Read about how Martin’s journey began in 2021.

Finding His Niche Through Authenticity

After training with the Academy of Modern Celebrancy nearly four years ago, Martin initially tried to fit a conventional mould. “I was trying to be that one person for everyone,” he recalls, “and I found that I was suppressing a lot of myself.” The turning point came during a branding exercise when he acknowledged ‘camp’ as one of his defining characteristics. Instead of hiding this aspect of his personality, he decided to embrace it fully.

This self-acceptance led to the creation of his alter ego, Maria Hurtz, and the launch of unique Drag Queen Celebrant ceremony packages that combined celebrancy with his other talents. The response has been overwhelming – next year’s bookings show more couples choosing Maria for their ceremonies than ever before.

A Suite of Unique & Diverse Celebrant Services

Martin’s ceremony offerings are as diverse as his skill set. As Martin Fox Roberts, he conducts traditional ceremonies with his signature warm, inclusive style. As Maria Hurtz, he brings glamour and entertainment to proceedings. His most comprehensive package includes celebrancy, couples massage for stressed couples, and Drag Queen entertainment – truly a full-service celebration.

Perhaps most groundbreaking is his work with the deaf community. Martin can conduct ceremonies in British Sign Language, allowing deaf couples to have their ceremony in their first language without relying on an interpreter. He also offers interpreting services for other celebrants working with deaf couples or guests, recently working with fellow London Celebrant India Bel.

Breaking New Ground in Funeral Services

Martin’s innovative approach extends to funeral services, where he has conducted ceremonies in drag when requested by families. “I don’t just go, ‘Oh, you want drag? Yes, I’ll do it,'” he explains. “I need to find out why.” This thoughtful approach ensures that such ceremonies truly honour the deceased and comfort their loved ones, particularly when the person who has passed had connections to the drag community.

The Topsy-Turvy Wedding

One of Martin’s favourite ceremonies showcases his ability to think outside the box. For a same-sex couple, he conducted what he calls a “topsy-turvy wedding” where everything was deliberately done in reverse. The celebration began with the party and drinks, followed by the group photos, and finally the ceremony itself. During the ceremony, he incorporated the “shoe game” into the couple’s love story, creating an interactive and memorable experience for everyone involved.

Award-Winning Champion of Inclusivity

Martin’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility was recently recognised at the 2024 Quirky Wedding Awards, where he won the award for Inclusivity & Accessibility – a testament to his dedication to creating truly welcoming ceremonies for all. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Martin ensures inclusivity is woven into every aspect of his work, from his comprehensive Safe Space statement to his thoughtful approach to ceremony language.

“I always ask couples how they want to be referred to,” he explains, noting that he’s had couples come up with their own terminology, like “brooms” for a pair of grooms. This attention to personal preferences and identity extends across all his services, whether he’s conducting ceremonies in British Sign Language or creating safe, affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ couples.

Martin also makes a point of acknowledging the historical context of LGBTQIA+ ceremonies, reminding couples that they are role models for future generations. “You’re sending out a message on so many levels,” he says, noting that there might be young guests present who see themselves reflected in the celebration. This understanding of ceremony’s power to validate and inspire has made him a leading voice for inclusive celebration in the UK wedding industry.

Looking to the Future

With a growing demand for his unique services, Martin continues to push boundaries and create ceremonies that truly reflect each couple’s personality and wishes. Whether performing as Martin or Maria, conducting ceremonies in sign language, or combining multiple services into one unforgettable package, he demonstrates that being true to oneself is the key to success in celebrancy.

As he says, “If you want someone who’s a bit camp, book me!” This authenticity has not only created a thriving business but has also opened new possibilities for what a modern ceremony can be.

Based in South East London but serving couples and families across the UK, Martin Fox Roberts and his alter ego Maria Hurtz can be found on his website Proud Fox Ceremonies and on Instagram @proud_fox_ceremonies, where he continues to spread what he calls “feral fabulousness” wherever there’s love and life to be celebrated.

Main photo credit: Nick Brightman Photography

Inspired by Martin’s Journey? Start Your Own Celebrant Story

Martin’s story demonstrates how the right training and support can help you transform your passion for connecting with people into a fulfilling new career. Like Martin, you might be seeking a creative outlet, a positive change, or a way to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives.

The Academy of Modern Celebrancy offers more than just training – we provide a supportive community, business guidance, and ongoing mentorship to help you succeed. Whether you’re looking to complement your existing career or embark on a completely new path, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to begin your own celebrant journey? Get in touch with us today:

• Take our Fun Quiz and see if you’d make a good Celebrant
• Learn more about our comprehensive training program
• Join our vibrant community of modern celebrants

Your story could be the next one we feature in our “How It Started, How It’s Going” series. Take that first step today.