First, thank you so much for considering a humanist wedding ceremony.
We all want our wedding day to be special and memorable, and the best way to do that is to make a ceremony that is just for you and tells the story of your partnership in a way that is a true celebration and right for you. To that end, I offer non-religious ceremonies which reflect your story, values and beliefs.
As a gay humanist celebrant and member of LGBT Humanists group I am especially committed to making ceremonies that are inclusive and celebrate your specific circumstances. Your ceremony should reflect and embody your personal definitions of partnership, union and family. [For clarity - and in relation to a question I am often asked - I don't exclusively do same-sex ceremonies!] Whilst humanist ceremonies are non-religious, they are not anti-religion and my ceremonies are made to include all participants in a rich and memorable occasion.
WHAT DOES A CEREMONY ENTAIL?
My ceremony will tell your story with warmth, sincerity and humour and I will design, write and deliver the whole thing by listening to your wishes and desires for this special day in your lives. At every step you will have direct input into making an occasion to treasure. It will live long in the memories of all present and moreover ensure that it is unique to you, something which neither religious nor formal registrar ceremonies may offer. Each ceremony usually includes a public affirmation of the couple's commitment to each other, and some part of their story about they came to this day, but there is no set requirement.
To that end a ceremony can take place when and wherever you decide, and may include readings, symbolic acts, and music chosen by you. If however, you feel a bit lost as to where to start, I have plenty of examples and suggestions to share with you as part of making your day.
Some people like to use a more traditional wedding format and keep things simple while some might choose to invent their own rituals and create new 'traditions' among friends and family, whilst wanting all the 'bells and whistles' they can imagine! What is important is that you make it right for you and your guests. Tone and style are always yours to determine, and whether an intimate exchange of vows at a meaningful rendeveous, a homemade party in a back garden or something closer to grand opera is what you have in mind, I am happy to oblige.
