 Photo by Joe Hendricks of Elope Tulluride For many couples, a wedding wouldn’t feel complete without their four-legged family member. If your dog has been with you through dating, long nights of planning, and all of life’s milestones, bringing them into your celebration can make the day even more meaningful. Here are some fun, heartwarming ways to weave your pup into your wedding festivities. 1. Make Them Part of the Ceremony One of the most popular roles is having your dog walk down the aisle as a ring bearer or flower pup. You can attach faux rings to their collar or have them trot down with a small floral arrangement. This not only adds joy to the ceremony but also guarantees some unforgettable photos. 2. Include Them in Your Wedding Portraits Your dog doesn’t have to be part of the full event to make an appearance. If your pup gets easily overwhelmed, schedule a quick photo session before or after the ceremony. Whether it’s candid snuggles or a posed family shot, these images will be priceless. 3. Give a Nod Through Décor If your venue isn’t pet-friendly, you can still honor your pup creatively. Add subtle dog-themed elements like custom cocktail napkins, table numbers named after your dog’s favorite spots, or illustrated signage featuring their adorable face. 4. Let Them Join the Reception Fun If your dog is social and comfortable around crowds, let them make a cameo at the reception. You can outfit them in a cute bandana or floral collar and let them mingle with guests—just be sure there’s a quiet retreat space if they need a break. Hire a Dog Attendant for the Day For peace of mind, consider hiring a professional dog attendant. These specialists handle everything—transportation, feeding, walks, potty breaks, and supervising your pup throughout the event. They ensure your dog stays comfortable, happy, and safe so you can fully enjoy your wedding without worrying about pet logistics. It’s the perfect solution for couples who want their dog present without added stress.
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 Why Couples Are Ditching Banquets for Intimate Dining
Weddings in 2026 are ushering in a bold shift — one that favours curated culinary theatre over traditional banquet halls. At the heart of this transformation? The supper-club wedding, an intimate, chef-led, dining-focused celebration that’s part dinner party, part luxury gastronomic experience. What Is a Supper-Club Wedding?Rather than a massive formal dinner, supper-club weddings feel more like exclusive dinner parties. Imagine lounge-style seating, long serpentine tables, dim candlelight, and elevated culinary stations where chefs finish dishes in front of guests. According to wedding trend forecasters, this style embraces “editorial-style plating” and a “progressive supper club dining” experience. Why It’s Trending in 2026
How to Plan One
If you’re a couple who loves food, connection, and a relaxed but sophisticated vibe — the 2026 supper-club wedding might just be your perfect way to celebrate.  The Mighty Micro Wedding: Why the Right Celebrant is the Secret Ingredient
Big weddings are a bit like blockbuster movies: all drama, huge budgets, and at least one relative who insists on stealing the spotlight. Micro weddings, on the other hand, are more like indie films—thoughtful, intimate, with just the right touch of quirk. They’re the perfectly portioned wedding soufflé: small, elegant, and far less likely to collapse under pressure. But here’s the thing about micro weddings: when you shrink the scale, every detail gets magnified. That dreamy artisanal cake? Everyone notices if it tastes like cardboard. That playlist you spent three days curating? It’s obvious if it loops after 12 songs. And most importantly—the celebrant. Because when you’ve got just 20 people in a garden, your celebrant isn’t background noise. They’re front and center. Think less “anonymous officiant” and more “wedding co-star.” Why Celebrants Matter More in Micro Weddings In a ballroom filled with 200 guests, Uncle Bob can zone out halfway through the vows and no one bats an eyelid. In a micro wedding, if your celebrant drones on in monotone about “the sanctity of union,” everyone notices—and probably contemplates sneaking off for another canapé. The right celebrant, though? They set the tone, break the ice, and make sure the ceremony feels like you. They’re not just there to say, “You may kiss the bride/groom/partner.” They’re there to weave your quirks, love story, and inside jokes into something memorable. In fact, in a micro wedding, they practically are the vibe curator. The Wrong Celebrant: A Cautionary Tale Picture this: you’ve planned the perfect micro wedding. Handmade vows, wildflowers everywhere, and your dog is the ring bearer. But then you hire a celebrant who treats it like a tax seminar. Suddenly, your intimate dream is giving “Tuesday morning at the DMV”vibes. Your guests start counting ceiling beams, and even your dog looks bored. The wrong celebrant can turn “micro” into “meh.” The Right Celebrant: Pure Magic Now flip the script. The celebrant arrives, warm smile, a twinkle of mischief in their eye. They know your story (even that disastrous first date at the all-you-can-eat ribs place). They make Aunt Margaret chuckle, calm your pre-ceremony jitters, and deliver words that leave everyone feeling like they were part of something sacred and fun. Suddenly, your micro wedding feels grand—not in size, but in heart. Celebrants as Ceremony Architects Think of your celebrant as part storyteller, part MC, part stand-up comic, and part therapist. They’re the ones who transform the ceremony from “we’re legally married now” into “this was one of the best half hours of my life.” When the guest list is short, their role isn’t diluted—it’s amplified. So, if you’re planning a micro wedding, don’t leave the celebrant choice as an afterthought. They’re not just there to get the paperwork signed. They’re the glue, the sparkle, and the reason why your 25 guests will be talking about your ceremony long after the cake is gone. Because let’s be honest—micro weddings may be small, but the right celebrant? That’s one very big deal.  Photo by Joe Hendricks of Elope Tullurid The Ultimate Guide to an Elopemoon: Combining Your Elopement and Honeymoon for the Perfect Intimate Escape
When it comes to celebrating love, couples are finding new and unique ways to make their special day unforgettable. One trend that has been steadily growing in popularity is the Elopemoon—a seamless combination of an elopement and honeymoon. This modern twist on wedding traditions allows couples to exchange vows in a dream destination and immediately begin their honeymoon in the same breathtaking location. If you and your partner are seeking an intimate, stress-free, and adventure-filled wedding experience, an Elopemoon might be the perfect choice for you. In this ultimate guide, I’ll walk you through what you need to know to plan the Elopemoon of your dreams. Why Choose an Elopemoon? 1. Intimacy and Romance One of the biggest draws of an Elopemoon is the opportunity for complete privacy and romance. Unlike traditional weddings, which often come with guest lists and family expectations, an Elopemoon focuses solely on the couple’s love story. You and your partner can share an intimate ceremony without distractions, allowing you to truly soak in the magic of the moment. 2. Cost-Effective Traditional weddings can be costly, with expenses quickly adding up for venues, catering, decor, and entertainment. An Elopemoon eliminates the need for many of these expenses, allowing couples to invest in an unforgettable travel experience instead. Many couples find that they can allocate their wedding budget toward luxurious accommodations, fine dining, unique experiences and breathtaking photographs rather than a single-day event overwhelmed with too many people. 3. Adventure and Exploration For couples who love to travel, an Elopemoon provides the ultimate adventure. Whether you dream of exchanging vows on a secluded beach, atop a scenic mountain, or in a historic European city, the world is your wedding venue. After saying “I do,” you can immediately transition into your honeymoon, exploring a new culture, indulging in local cuisine, and making incredible memories together. 4. Stress-Free Planning Elopements tend to be far less stressful to plan than traditional weddings. Without the pressure of accommodating hundreds of guests, managing a large budget, or organizing extensive logistics, couples can focus on what truly matters—each other. Many destinations and resorts even offer elopement packages that include photography, florals, and accommodations, making the planning process a breeze. Choosing the Perfect Elopemoon Destination When selecting a destination for your Elopemoon, consider the type of experience you and your partner desire with or without a few special people tagging along. Here are a few incredible destination ideas: 1. Tropical Paradise If you envision a barefoot ceremony on the sand followed by cocktails at sunset, a tropical Elopemoon might be the perfect fit. Popular tropical destinations include:
For adventurous couples who love hiking, breathtaking views, and cozying up by a fire, a mountain Elopemoon is ideal. Consider destinations like:
If you’re dreaming of a historic and culture-filled Elopemoon, a European destination might be the perfect choice. Consider:
For a unique and breathtaking experience, a desert Elopemoon offers striking landscapes and magical sunsets. Some stunning desert destinations include:
Planning Your Elopemoon 1. Legal Considerations Before booking your trip, research the marriage laws in your chosen destination. Some locations require specific documentation, residency periods, or translations of legal papers. If legal marriage isn’t feasible, many couples choose to have a symbolic ceremony abroad and complete the legal process in their home country. 2. Hiring a Photographer and Videographer Since you won’t have a large guest list to document your special day, hiring a professional photographer and/or videographer is crucial. Many destinations have talented professionals who specialize in elopements and can capture your love story beautifully. 3. Booking Accommodations and Experiences Look for hotels, resorts, or Airbnbs that offer romance packages or cater to honeymooners. Consider booking unique experiences like:
For an Elopemoon, packing light and smart is key. Be sure to include:
Making the Most of Your Elopemoon 1. Savor the Moment Since an Elopemoon is all about intimacy and adventure, take time to soak in every special moment. Whether it’s the quiet sunrise before your vows or the first toast as newlyweds, cherish every second. 2. Keep Loved Ones Included (If Desired) While an Elopemoon is private, you can still involve your family and friends in meaningful ways. Bring along a handful of nearest and dearest to be with before the ceremony but send them home shortly after so you two can have a proper honeymoon! Also consider live-streaming your ceremony, sending personalized postcards, or hosting a cool low-key post-elopement “Happily Ever After” celebration at your favorite pub when you return home. 3. Capture the Magic In addition to professional photography, keep a travel journal or create a scrapbook to remember your special journey. Small mementos like pressed flowers, ticket stubs, or handwritten vows can make beautiful keepsakes. 4. Embrace the Unexpected Traveling always comes with surprises—weather changes, unexpected detours, or cultural differences. Approach your Elopemoon with an open heart and a sense of adventure, knowing that the best memories often come from the unplanned moments. Conclusion An Elopemoon is a perfect way to celebrate your love in a deeply personal and unforgettable way. By combining your wedding and honeymoon into one seamless experience, you can create lifelong memories while embracing adventure, romance, and intimacy with just the two of you or with a few select loved ones. Whether you choose a tropical island, a mountain retreat, or a European city, the world is your canvas—ready to paint your love story. So, if you're looking for a wedding experience that prioritizes romance, simplicity, and wanderlust, an Elopemoon might just be the perfect start to your happily ever after. Some people celebrate anniversaries with a romantic dinner. Others splurge on a weekend getaway. And then there are those who say, “Honey, let’s rent a beach house, hire a string quartet, and promise to love each other all over again in front of friends, family, and an open bar and party like we couldn’t afford to when we were younger.” That’s right—I’m talking about vow renewal ceremonies.
At first glance, vow renewals might seem redundant. After all, you already said “I do,” so why repeat yourself? But here’s the thing: marriage is a journey. Sometimes it’s a smooth ride with champagne in the backseat. Sometimes it’s like sharing a canoe with a raccoon—unexpected, messy, and a little bitey. A vow renewal is essentially a pit stop where couples say, “Yes, we survived. And somehow, I still want to share my life with you.” Celebrities, of course, take vow renewals to the next level. Heidi Klum and Seal famously renewed their vows every single year during their marriage—each ceremony with a different theme. One year it was white trash (their words, not mine), another year it was masquerade. It was less about “’til death do us part” and more about “’til next year’s costume change.” Meanwhile, Beyoncé and Jay-Z reportedly renewed their vows quietly in 2018, proving that not every celebrity celebration requires sequins and synchronized fireworks over the Eiffel Tower. For us non-celeb folks, vow renewals don’t have to be extravagant. They can be as simple as standing in the backyard, holding hands, and trying not to laugh when the dog decides the ceremony is the perfect time to chase the neighbor’s pesky cat. In fact, the beauty of vow renewals lies in their flexibility. No rules, no pressure—just a chance to look at your partner and say, “I’d still swipe right.” There’s also the added benefit of getting a do-over. Maybe your original wedding was a blur of stress, crying flower girls, and a DJ who thought “Cotton Eye Joe” was romantic. A vow renewal lets you rewrite the script. Want to walk down the aisle in Converse sneakers this time? Do it. Want to have your kids dance you down the aisle, why not! Want to have that build your own sundae bar Mom nixed the first time around, yes please! This time, just go for it! And let’s be honest, the reception is half the fun. Cake tastes even better when it comes with decades of inside jokes. Champagne feels bubblier when you’re toasting survival through IKEA furniture assembly. And the dance floor? Well, after years together, no one cares if your moves look less like “Strictly” and more like “Dad at a barbecue.” So, whether you’re planning a grand destination bash worthy of a People magazine spread or an intimate gathering at your favorite diner, vow renewals are a joyful reminder that love isn’t a one-time contract—it’s a renewable subscription. And a vow renewal tells the world, “We really did make the right choice.” To sum it up: vow renewals are less about repeating your vows and more about celebrating the fact that you still want to repeat them. After all, anyone can say “I do” once. But saying it again—after years of bills, in-laws, and duvet wars—that’s real romance.  Dear couples, If you’ve ever dreamed of a wedding ceremony that truly reflects who you are — your values, your humour, your love story — then the news from 2 October 2025 is worth celebrating. On that day, the UK Government announced its intention to give legal recognition to humanist weddings in England and Wales. For the first time, it’s not just campaigners or celebrants talking about it — the Government itself has said: this should happen. As someone who’s spent time standing beside couples like you, creating ceremonies full of laughter, tears, poetry, and promises, I can tell you, this is the moment we’ve been waiting for. So, what has actually changed? Right now, nothing legal has changed — yet. You still need a civil ceremony with a registrar to make your marriage legally binding in England or Wales. But this announcement means the Government intends to change that. Here’s what they’ve promised:
What this means for you right now If you’re planning a wedding soon, this announcement doesn’t change the current legal steps. You’ll still need a civil registration alongside your humanist ceremony. But emotionally and practically, it means that:
Why this matters so much For many of you, your humanist ceremony is the “real” wedding — the one that feels authentic, personal, and full of meaning. You write your own vows, choose readings that speak to you, include family or friends in ways that reflect your story. It’s not a script, it’s a reflection. And yet, until now, you’ve had to do it twice: one ceremony to satisfy the law, and one to satisfy your hearts. It’s always struck me as unfair that couples marrying in a church or mosque have their ceremony recognised by law, while non-religious couples do not. This announcement is about equality. It says that what you believe — or don’t believe — should never affect how your love is honoured or validated by the state. What happens next The Government’s plan is to consult widely in early 2026 — with celebrants, registrars, venues, and couples — to make sure the new system works smoothly. After that, they’ll bring forward legislation to make humanist ceremonies legally binding. Humanists UK, who’ve led this campaign for decades, are still urging the Government to act faster — perhaps by using powers it already has under the 2013 Marriage Act to make humanist weddings legal even before the full reform. Either way, the message is clear: change is coming. And as a celebrant, I’m already preparing — ensuring I meet the professional and ethical standards that will come with legal recognition. What you can do
A final word from me This announcement is a promise — a promise that soon, the ceremony that captures your laughter, your vows, your meaning, will finally count in the eyes of the law. When that day comes, you’ll stand before each other and say “I do,” knowing that your words carry both emotional and legal weight. One ceremony, one moment, one love — recognised in every sense. Until then, I’ll keep crafting ceremonies full of truth and joy, and I’ll be ready for the day I can finally say: “By the power vested in me as a humanist celebrant… I now pronounce you legally married.” And what a moment that will be.   The Practical Romance of Pouring Granules Into a Jar
When it comes to weddings, there’s no shortage of symbolic gestures. Some couples light candles, others release doves, and a few simply sign paperwork and head straight to the cocktail hour. Somewhere in the middle lies the sand blending ceremony: a ritual where two (or more) people pour different sands into one vessel to symbolize unity. On paper, it sounds simple: pour sand, admire the result, take photos. In practice, it’s surprisingly thoughtful—and slightly nerve-racking if you’re prone to shaky hands. Why Sand? The tradition has roots in various cultures, including Hawaiian and Native American rituals, where sand represented the merging of lands, lives, and families. In today’s weddings, it often replaces the “unity candle.” The practical reason? Sand doesn’t go out when there’s a breeze. Candles may be romantic, but they don’t stand a chance against outdoor ceremonies or overzealous air-conditioning vents. Sand also has staying power. Once it’s layered into the vase, it sticks around as a keepsake—a permanent reminder of the day, unlike sparklers or champagne, which tend to vanish within minutes. How It Works Each partner has a container of sand in a distinct color. During the ceremony, the couple pours their sands into a central vessel, creating layers. Some keep it tidy and stripe-like, others pour together for a blended effect. Both approaches work: one says “we’re organized,” the other says “we’re improvisers, and this still counts.” For blended families, children can join in too, adding their own colors. The result looks a bit like a collaborative art project you might see in a modern gallery—except this one has fewer critics and more hugs afterward. A Few Practical Notes
What It Represents At its core, the sand ceremony is a reminder that two distinct people are choosing to build a shared life. Once the grains are in the jar, separating them again would be nearly impossible—just like trying to draw clean lines in a relationship. The new pattern, with all its layers and blends, becomes something unique to the couple. As the couple pours, the officiant can tell even more of their story, weaving in comments about their different backgrounds, families, and the new life they are building. It can be surprisingly moving. Each grain really does feel symbolic—tiny fragments of two whole lives being tipped into one shared future. Final Thought If you want a ritual that’s simple, meaningful, and just a little creative, the sand blending ceremony checks all the boxes. It doesn’t require a choir, a power outlet, or an insurance policy against escaping livestock (yes, that’s a thing). Just a jar, some sand, and the willingness to pour your individual stories into one shared design.  A Non-Religious Ring Warming Ceremony with a Twist
Weddings are filled with traditions: tossing bouquets, eating too much cake, and trying to remember where you put your vows (hint: they’re in your other pocket). But for couples looking to add a meaningful, non-religious touch to their big day, the ring warming ceremony is a hidden gem. It’s heartfelt, inclusive, and just the right amount of sentimental without requiring incense, chanting, or sacrificing anyone’s sanity. So, what exactly is a ring warming ceremony? In the simplest terms, your wedding rings take a little journey before they land on your fingers. They’re passed around to your guests—either in person or symbolically—so each loved one can hold them for a moment, infuse them with good wishes, or just silently think, “Wow, these two are really doing it.” By the time the rings return, they’re not just shiny pieces of jewelry; they’re loaded with positive vibes, kind thoughts, and possibly a faint trace of Aunt Sophie’s hand cream. Why a Ring Warming? First, it’s inclusive. Unlike religious blessings, this tradition doesn’t require anyone to recite prayers or follow rituals outside their comfort zone. Whether your guest is a devoted yogi, a die-hard skeptic, or just here for the open bar, everyone can get behind the idea of sending a little love into the rings. Second, it’s symbolic. Think of it as crowd-sourced good fortune. Your rings won’t just represent your bond; they’ll represent the support of everyone who showed up to witness your dance-floor debut. And third, it’s memorable. Years later, you’ll look at those rings and think, “Oh yes, Aunt Linda probably whispered her wish for us to finally host the family summer barbecue.” How to Pull It Off Without Chaos The main trick is logistics. If you have 30 guests, the passing process will be smooth, like a game of hot potato in slow motion. If you have 200 guests, however, you might be looking at a ceremony that lasts longer than your marriage license appointment at the registrar’s office. One solution: pass the rings only to immediate family and the wedding party. Another option: set up a little “ring warming station” where guests can hold the rings and leave their blessings in a notebook. That way, you don’t risk Uncle Gary pocketing the jewelry while the DJ plays “Sweet Caroline.” And don’t worry about what people are “supposed” to do when they get the rings. There’s no wrong way to send love and good vibes. Some will close their eyes and think something sweet. Some will whisper a wish. Some will panic under pressure and mentally recite the lyrics to “Bohemian Rhapsody.” It’s all good energy in the end. A Final Warm Thought A non-religious ring warming ceremony is a simple but powerful way to remind yourselves that marriage isn’t a solo act. It’s a duet backed by a choir of friends and family (some more in tune than others). With a little humor, some careful planning, and maybe a spritz of hand sanitizer, your rings will carry not just your love story, but the warm wishes of everyone cheering you on. Because at the end of the day, the rings may be small—but the love (and laughter) they carry? That’s enormous.  Weddings are beautiful, sacred celebrations of love, commitment, and, let’s be honest, the strategic use of fairy lights. But in a world increasingly aware of climate change, plastic confetti is a sad nod to "forever." Enter: nature. No, not just a barn with mason jars — we’re talking real, living, breathing green stuff. If you're looking to tie the knot with a touch of eco-flair, why not make Mother Nature your bridesmaid?
Here are some creative, earthy (and mildly hilarious) ways to bring nature into your big day — and no, we don’t mean unleashing a flock of doves. We’ve seen the TikToks. It ends badly. 1. Plant a Tree Instead of Unity Candles Candles are romantic, but so is a tiny sapling symbolizing your growing love — and with far less fire risk. During your ceremony, plant a tree together (bonus points if it’s in a pot so it doesn’t upstage the bride’s shoes). Not only is this a symbolic moment, but someday, you can sit under its shade together... unless it’s a cactus. Choose wisely. 2. Give Guests Seeds or Plant Cuttings Forget the stale Jordan almonds. Give your guests something they can grow. Seed packets labeled “Let Love Grow” are adorable, affordable, and won’t melt in their car. Succulent cuttings or tiny herb pots make perfect favors and double as table decor. Plus, if Aunt Karen forgets hers, you suddenly have 14 free basil plants. Win-win. 3. Wear Nature (But Tastefully) I'm not saying you should show up in a dress made of moss (unless you're into that), but incorporating florals into your attire can be stunning. A flower crown, a boutonnière made of herbs, or even a bouquet with locally foraged elements adds a rustic, natural charm. Just maybe keep the stinging nettle out of the mix. 4. Ditch Confetti for Petals or LeavesWhen it’s time for your grand exit, skip the plastic and go full woodland elf. Dried flower petals, lavender buds, or even hole-punched leaves make a biodegradable alternative that’s easy on the environment — and won’t require a vacuum crew. 5. Compost, Recycle, and Reuse Okay, this one isn’t as romantic, but nothing says “eternal love” like compostable dinnerware. Set up bins for recycling and food scraps — future garden gold! Guests may be confused at first, but slap on some cute signage and they’ll be separating their salad from their soda cans with glee. Final Thought: Go Green Without Turning Into a Shrub Your wedding doesn’t need to look like a greenhouse exploded to feel eco-conscious. A few thoughtful touches can connect your love story to the planet you’re building a life on — and that’s a pretty beautiful beginning.  Handfasting Ceremony: Tying the Knot (Literally!) When it comes to weddings, there’s no shortage of heartfelt traditions, tear-jerking vows, and beautifully awkward dance moves. But if you’re looking for a unique, romantic, and slightly whimsical way to say “I do,” a handfasting ceremony might be just the twist of tradition your big day needs—pun totally intended. So... What Exactly Is Handfasting? Handfasting is an ancient Celtic tradition where a couple’s hands are tied together—gently!—with cords or ribbons as a symbol of their union. It’s where the phrase “tying the knot” comes from, so yes, this is the OG marriage metaphor, and it’s still going strong today. The idea is simple and sweet: you and your beloved hold hands, and your officiant (or a willing friend with nimble fingers) wraps a cord or ribbons around them while you say your vows or exchange meaningful looks. It’s symbolic, it’s romantic, and it looks amazing in photos—hello, Pinterest boards! Not Just for Medieval Reenactments While it might sound like something out of a Renaissance fair (and hey, no judgment if you’re into that), handfasting is incredibly versatile. Whether your vibe is boho forest wedding, beachside elopement, or backyard bash with your dog as the best man, handfasting fits right in. And don’t worry—there’s no one way to do it. Some couples choose colored cords to represent different qualities (red for passion, blue for loyalty, green for prosperity), while others just pick something pretty that matches their decor. It's your moment—make it yours! A Knot with Meaning The real magic of handfasting is in its symbolism. As your hands are bound together, you're making a visible promise to support, love, and travel through life side by side. Each wrap of the cord can represent a vow, a hope, or a shared inside joke (yes, even the one about leaving the toilet seat down). If a couple has children, including them in a handfasting ceremony is a wonderful idea because it not only symbolizes the union of two people, but the blending of families in a tangible, heartfelt way. Having the kids participate—perhaps by choosing and tying ribbons—gives them a meaningful role in the ceremony, making them feel seen, valued, and just the right amount of important. It adds a layer of joy (and unpredictability) to the ritual, as glittery cords, unexpected comments, and irresistible giggles are bound to sneak in. Plus, it's a sweet reminder that love isn’t just between partners—it’s the whole glorious, messy, beautiful family tying the knot together.  Tips for a Handfasting That’s All You
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Amy WilsonHumanist Wedding Celebrant, retired United States Diplomat passionate baker and traveler. Archives
September 2025
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