Supplier Spotlight: Forever by Frank
For Frank Booysen of Forever by Frank, creating meaningful ceremonies begins with a simple belief: every couple deserves a wedding that feels authentically their own. Information drawn from Frank’s questionnaire responses.
Supplier Spotlight is an editorial series by Top Wedding Suppliers, profiling leading names in the wedding industry and offering insight into the ideas, processes, and perspectives shaping exceptional events.
For all the attention given to venues, décor, music and flowers, it’s easy to forget that the ceremony is the reason everyone has gathered in the first place.
It’s the moment where two people make a commitment to one another. The moment where anticipation turns into celebration. And often, it’s the moment guests remember most vividly years later.
For Frank Booysen of Forever by Frank, creating meaningful ceremonies begins with a simple belief: every couple deserves a wedding that feels authentically their own. Information drawn from Frank’s questionnaire responses.
The most memorable ceremonies aren’t always the perfect ones — they’re the ones that feel real.
Creating ceremonies that reflect the couple
“I would describe my style as a blend of modern and contemporary weddings,” Frank explains.
As more couples move away from traditional or religious formats, he believes ceremonies should be shaped around who the couple actually are, rather than what they feel they should do.
“I love helping couples create a wedding that’s truly them — something their family and friends will enjoy, remember, and connect with.”
For Frank, the goal is simple: helping couples create a wedding day they’ll remember forever.
The misconception many couples have
One of the biggest misunderstandings about marriage officers is that they simply arrive, conduct the legal formalities, and leave.
In reality, the role runs much deeper.
“Many couples think officiants will tell them what to do or impose their own beliefs on the ceremony,” says Frank.
But a skilled officiant is often responsible for far more than the legal aspects of the day.
“They help shape the atmosphere, calm nerves, manage timing, coordinate with suppliers, and ensure the ceremony feels personal rather than scripted.”
Often, it’s only after the wedding that couples realise just how much influence the officiant had on the overall experience.
Getting to know the story behind the wedding
Before writing a ceremony, Frank invests time in understanding the people at its centre.
Whenever possible, he meets couples in person over coffee. If distance makes that difficult, a video call becomes the next best thing.
“I love hearing their story,” he says. “How they met, the moments they’ve shared, and what brought them to this point.”
Those conversations become the foundation for a ceremony that feels personal, meaningful and uniquely theirs.
Setting the tone from the very beginning
The opening moments of a ceremony carry tremendous weight.
For Frank, creating a welcoming atmosphere starts with acknowledging the people who have helped shape the couple’s journey.
“I like to thank family members, the bridal party, and especially grandparents if they’re present.”
These small gestures help guests feel included and connected from the outset.
“It sets the tone and helps everyone feel relaxed and present in the moment.”
Why couples should book their officiant early
Frank is passionate about one piece of advice that many couples overlook.
“Book your officiant as soon as you’ve secured your venue and wedding date.”
Too often, couples prioritise other suppliers and leave the officiant until much later in the planning process.
“On many occasions, couples have contacted me only to discover I was already committed to another wedding.”
Because officiants play such a central role in the ceremony, securing the right person early can prevent disappointment later.
The moments people remember
Interestingly, Frank believes the most memorable ceremonies are rarely the most polished.
“The ceremonies people remember years later aren’t necessarily the perfect ones.”
Instead, they’re the moments that feel deeply human:
A groom forgetting his words because he’s overwhelmed.
A bride laughing halfway through her vows.
A parent quietly wiping away tears.
“A memorable ceremony makes people feel something,” he says. “It reflects the couple’s story rather than following a generic script.”
Finding the right balance
Every couple is different.
Some want a deeply emotional ceremony. Others prefer something light-hearted and relaxed.
Most sit somewhere in between.
“A good officiant reads both the couple and the room,” Frank explains.
By understanding personalities and preferences ahead of time, he’s able to create ceremonies that feel natural rather than forced — meaningful without becoming overly formal, and engaging without losing their emotional depth.
What happens behind the scenes
Many guests see only the final 20-minute ceremony.
What they don’t see is the preparation that goes into making it feel effortless.
“A huge part of the work is creating emotional flow,” Frank explains.
Every section is carefully considered:
- How the ceremony begins
- Where emotional moments should land
- When to introduce lightness
- How to keep guests engaged
- How to adapt when unexpected situations arise
“There’s always more happening behind the scenes than people realise.”
Part of a bigger team
Like many experienced wedding professionals, Frank views weddings as a collaborative effort.
When he arrives at a venue, he makes a point of connecting with the planner, photographer, videographer, DJ and MC.
“It’s important to understand everyone’s role and become part of the team.”
That communication helps ensure the ceremony unfolds smoothly and every supplier is working toward the same goal.
A final word
When choosing an officiant, Frank believes compatibility matters just as much as experience.
“Choose someone who listens to you.”
Someone willing to understand your vision.
Someone who can guide you, support you, and help you feel relaxed throughout the ceremony.
And importantly, he adds, ensure they are legally registered with the Department of Home Affairs and authorised to officiate your marriage.
Because while the ceremony may only last a short while, its impact lasts far longer.
