A Little Bit About Humanist Weddings
Why a Humanist Wedding
If you love the idea of a wedding that’s all about you (rather than an ancient book, a stern vicar, or a registrar with all the enthusiasm of a bored traffic warden), then a Humanist wedding might be just the ticket. These ceremonies are all about love, laughter, and celebrating your story—without any of the religious bits or legal jargon taking center stage.
It's all about you
Think of a Humanist wedding as the ultimate “Build-Your-Own” or DIY ceremony. You and your partner get to decide everything—what’s said, what traditions (if any) you include, and whether your entrance involves a grand procession or simply sprinting in because you’re late. There are no prayers, no hymns, and no required speeches from that one uncle who always insists on making things awkward. But, if you want to see that uncle make a speech, we'll make it happen!
Enter the Humanist Celebrant—Your Wedding Wingperson
A Humanist celebrant isn’t just there to read off a script—I'll work with you to craft a ceremony that feels like you. Whether you want something deeply romantic, warm and lighthearted, or full-on stand-up comedy (ok, maybe not full-on), I'll make it happen. I'll chat with you beforehand to learn all about your love story—how you met, who made the first move, and the moment you realized they were “the one”. Think of me as your wedding’s personal storyteller, ensuring Aunt Mildred doesn’t fall asleep in the front row.
Customization: The Fun Part
Here’s where it gets good. Humanist weddings are fully customizable, meaning you can:
The beauty of a Humanist wedding is that almost anything goes. Want to exchange vows while dressed as your favorite film characters? Go for it. Fancy incorporating a handfasting ritual, where your hands are tied together (a symbolic nod to commitment, not a magic trick gone wrong)? Absolutely. You can write your own vows, have your dog as the ring bearer, or make an entrance on roller skates—no judgment here.
Wait… Is It Legal?
If you’re in Scotland or Northern Ireland, congratulations—your Humanist wedding is legally binding. If you’re in England or Wales, you’ll need to do the boring legal bit at a registry office before or after, but don’t worry—it’s just paperwork. The real wedding is the one you celebrate with your loved ones.
If you love the idea of a wedding that’s all about you (rather than an ancient book, a stern vicar, or a registrar with all the enthusiasm of a bored traffic warden), then a Humanist wedding might be just the ticket. These ceremonies are all about love, laughter, and celebrating your story—without any of the religious bits or legal jargon taking center stage.
It's all about you
Think of a Humanist wedding as the ultimate “Build-Your-Own” or DIY ceremony. You and your partner get to decide everything—what’s said, what traditions (if any) you include, and whether your entrance involves a grand procession or simply sprinting in because you’re late. There are no prayers, no hymns, and no required speeches from that one uncle who always insists on making things awkward. But, if you want to see that uncle make a speech, we'll make it happen!
Enter the Humanist Celebrant—Your Wedding Wingperson
A Humanist celebrant isn’t just there to read off a script—I'll work with you to craft a ceremony that feels like you. Whether you want something deeply romantic, warm and lighthearted, or full-on stand-up comedy (ok, maybe not full-on), I'll make it happen. I'll chat with you beforehand to learn all about your love story—how you met, who made the first move, and the moment you realized they were “the one”. Think of me as your wedding’s personal storyteller, ensuring Aunt Mildred doesn’t fall asleep in the front row.
Customization: The Fun Part
Here’s where it gets good. Humanist weddings are fully customizable, meaning you can:
- Write your own vows (or have your celebrant help if public speaking gives you hives).
- Include meaningful rituals—like handfasting, sand-blending, maybe a quiz with guest participation or a dramatic sword fight (okay, maybe not that last one).
- Choose the music that actually reflects you—so yes, “All You Need Is Love” from Love Actually is entirely appropriate. (I actually had this as a singalong at my Humanist wedding and it was awesome)
- Get married anywhere—beach, forest, a castle, a beautiful manor house, your nan’s back garden. No soulless function rooms required!
The beauty of a Humanist wedding is that almost anything goes. Want to exchange vows while dressed as your favorite film characters? Go for it. Fancy incorporating a handfasting ritual, where your hands are tied together (a symbolic nod to commitment, not a magic trick gone wrong)? Absolutely. You can write your own vows, have your dog as the ring bearer, or make an entrance on roller skates—no judgment here.
Wait… Is It Legal?
If you’re in Scotland or Northern Ireland, congratulations—your Humanist wedding is legally binding. If you’re in England or Wales, you’ll need to do the boring legal bit at a registry office before or after, but don’t worry—it’s just paperwork. The real wedding is the one you celebrate with your loved ones.
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Photo by Lindsay Connors Photography
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Final Thoughts
A Humanist wedding is all about celebrating you as a couple. No outdated traditions, no unwanted rules—just love, laughter, and maybe a few happy tears (and not just from your nan when she realizes there’s an open bar). Whether it’s romantic, hilarious, or somewhere in between, one thing’s for sure—it’s a day you (and your guests) will actually enjoy!
A Humanist wedding is all about celebrating you as a couple. No outdated traditions, no unwanted rules—just love, laughter, and maybe a few happy tears (and not just from your nan when she realizes there’s an open bar). Whether it’s romantic, hilarious, or somewhere in between, one thing’s for sure—it’s a day you (and your guests) will actually enjoy!