After more than 15 years working as a PhD chemist in industry, Stephan Bl\u00f6\u00df left his senior management job and chose self-employment as an independent celebrant. For the 52-year-old, the decision five years ago was a significant step towards better health, greater joy in life and fulfilment.<\/p>\n\n
\u2018In management, I moved further and further away from the actual subject of my studies, my passion for chemistry,\u2019 Stephan Bl\u00f6\u00df says. \u2018That wasn’t good for me.\u2019 So he researched, looked around and sought opportunities. In 2020, he and his wife trained as mine guides at the Rammelsberg World Heritage Site and then completed further training as World Heritage guides. But the impulse to become self-employed as an independent celebrant came through his hobby.
Through WiReGo’s startup event series, he acquired the knowledge he needed and made valuable contacts. Exchanges with Newkammer Seesen and the Entrepreneurship Hub gave his venture the momentum it needed. Although self-employment as a consulting engineer would have been significantly more lucrative, he followed his passion.<\/p>\n\n
The IHK-certified independent celebrant has already conducted more than 100 ceremonies throughout Germany. His services include weddings, welcome ceremonies for children, funerals and pet memorial ceremonies. Customer feedback is consistently positive, and families often book him again. \u2018The appreciation of people who feel well looked after, comfortable and supported by my work is the greatest reward for me,\u2019 says Stephan Bl\u00f6\u00df. \u2018Financially, I’m far from where I used to be, but I’ve gained quality of life in return.\u2019 This form of self-fulfilment is only possible with his wife’s support. Together, they meet the challenge of shaping their lives in a way that benefits them both. \u2018My work requires a lot of time after regular working hours and at weekends,\u2019 the founder stresses. \u2018Balancing that with my wife’s work is still a challenge.\u2019<\/p>\n\n
Alongside his work as an independent celebrant, Stephan Bl\u00f6\u00df works part-time at the Samson Mine in Sankt Andreasberg. He has developed various city tours for Seesen and is active as a visitor guide. Despite strong competition, he wants to expand his work as an independent celebrant over the coming years. He also sees many opportunities in World Heritage. \u2018As long as we want to hold ceremonies and live our culture, I’m well positioned,\u2019 Stephan B\u00f6\u00df says, looking to the future with optimism. He wants to encourage other founders to stand up for their well-being and health.<\/p>\n\n