Why choose a humanist wedding ceremony?

You and your partner are unique. Your journey together through life will be unique too. So why not choose a ceremony written just for the two of you, with readings, beautifully worded vows and music chosen to define your identity as a couple?

 

Classic elegance or alternative? Romantic or funny?

I relish working on all kinds of ceremonies  – each one brings a different challenge, a different tone, a different emphasis. It’s great that couples are now starting to realise that, alongside choices for catering, dresses, flowers etc, they also have choices about whether they want standard words in a ceremony or for that part of the day to be as memorable as the reception afterwards. I can suggest readings and symbolic actions to involve your parents, your friends, your children, even your pets…

 

I particularly look forward to the opportunity to be able to share “your story” with your guests to ensure a focus on how you have arrived at this day and why your union is so special before moving on to promises for your future together.

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What about the legal side?

You may be aware that at the moment, humanist ceremonies in England do not have legal authority but our couples find completing the necessary paperwork at the local register office either before or after their special day quite straightforward.

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And if we want a vow renewal ceremony...?

I'd love to discuss the options with you! We can make your ceremony truly reflect your reasons for wanting to reaffirm your commitment to each other.

 

Perhaps you've suddenly become aware how swiftly the years are passing; a carefully crafted vow renewal allows for a pause as you take stock of all that has happened since your original wedding day. Maybe you see it as an opportunity to celebrate all the love in your life; not just between the two of you but also that shown by family and friends, a way to say thank you for all their years of support throughout your married life. Or maybe you want a more meaningful context before moving on to an evening of champagne and partying...the choice is yours!

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We’re interested. What happens next?

Get in touch with me to arrange an online introductory meeting (no obligation) to find out more. Then if you’re happy to go ahead, I’ll send you a contract and we will schedule a 2-3 hour in person meeting a few months before the date of your wedding. After this, I will write the first draft of your unique wedding ceremony script for your approval.

On the day…I will be there to deliver the ceremony and will have the reassurance of my affiliation to Humanists UK who set the benchmark for training and on-going quality control. I can’t wait to get cracking on helping you with your special day!

 

How much does it cost?

Fees depend on the location of your ceremony and range between £580 to £775 for weddings and £500-£600 for vow renewals, payable in three instalments.

For that I offer:

•  A post-booking planning meeting in a relaxed home environment so I can really get a sense of what makes you tick as a couple

• Help with choosing the best readings, poems and music

• An original ceremony script, totally personal to you and agreed by you well in advance of the wedding date

• If there is a long time between booking and the wedding, the chance to include any important changes in your life in the final edit

• Remote wedding rehearsal in the run up to the big day

• A presentation copy of the ceremony script to treasure forever

• Travel costs from me to you

• Being with you every step of the way, from getting to know you to standing up with you on your special day

• Direction of a rehearsal in the venue to test sound levels and choreography is also possible (extra charge for this)