How does it work?
- Our relationship comes first: We’ll have a free, no-obligation chemistry conversation to get to know each other a bit better. We’ll meet either in person or online. I’d love to hear all about you and your ideas, hopes and dreams for your ceremony
- Practicalities: When you book me, we’ll sign a contract and you’ll pay a booking fee to secure the date. We’ll schedule an in-depth planning session, discuss your choices for the music, readings, cultural/symbolic gestures, vows and much more. We’ll keep talking and shared reviews of your love story ensures that it is just right for you. I’ll write your ceremony script. You’ll get a keepsake copy to enjoy and treasure after the ceremony. You have the option of having a full rehearsal before your big day
- Your big day: I’ll be there early, check in with planners, wedding team, bridal party and anyone else to ensure that it’s your best day ever
FAQs
Q: What happens at a humanist wedding ceremony?
A. Every ceremony is unique and tailored to the couple. They would typically include readings, music, personal vows and the exchange of rings and other significant elements that create a meaningful and personal celebration
Q: How do I know if a humanist wedding right for us?
A. Humanist weddings are inclusive to all, focusing on love and equality. If you’re non-religious and value reason and empathy, a humanist wedding ceremony could be perfect for you!
Q: Can we have our humanist wedding outdoors?
A. Absolutely! Humanist weddings can take place anywhere and outdoor ceremonies can feel wonderfully relaxed. I’d encourage you to have a backup plan in case of bad weather
Q: Would you go abroad for our wedding?
A. Yes! I’d be happy to travel abroad. Where you’re thinking of going to?
Q: How far in advance of the wedding should we choose a celebrant?
A. As soon as you have a date for your wedding I suggest you start the process of selecting your celebrant. It’s important to secure the date and to choose someone that you feel completely comfortable with. When you get in touch we’ll schedule our chemistry call. When you decide, we’ll sign a contract, and you can have peace of mind that the date is secured and that your your milestone celebrations will be fabulous!
Q. We would like to honour our families’ religious heritage, even though we are not religious. Is that possible?
A. Yes. Couples can incorporate meaningful traditions, rituals, or readings that are important to them, as long as they align with their humanist values. Cultural rituals, such as smashing the glass, the garland exchange, jumping the broom, or a short ceremonial display or dance can be incorporated into your ceremony. We’ll create a unique and big hearted ceremony that feels inclusive for those of faith and centred around your non-religious worldview
Q. Do you officiate LGBTQ+ weddings?
A. Of course! As a humanist celebrant I believe that everyone should feel welcomed, included and valued exactly as you are. If you’d like a chat about this, please do get in touch with me
Q. What happens if you’re unwell or there is an emergency on the day?
A. At Humanist Ceremonies there is a network of celebrants who are all trained to the same high standards. If one celebrant is unable to deliver a ceremony, another accredited celebrant will step in to make sure that the wedding is delivered as planned
Q. How much does it cost?
Weddings from £750*
Elopements from £650*
Vow Renewal from £750*
Fees include:
- Our pre-meeting, planning meetings and homework questionnaire
- Writing your bespoke wedding script including edits and redrafts
- Help with vows and if you’re feeling stuck writing your own.
- Suggestions for readings, sounding board for ideas, encouraging cheerleader
- The ceremony itself. I’ll deliver your bespoke ceremony, be by your side for your magical wedding day
TRAVELLING EXPENSES are not included: The cost of travel to the place of the ceremony and pre wedding rehearsal are not included in my fee. If driving I will charge @ 50p per mile from my home address to the venue. If using public transport it will be billed at cost/ticket prices. If the venue is more than two hours from London there might be an accommodation expenses to budget for. We’ll talk through all travel and accommodation cost before you commit to book, there will never be any hidden costs or surprises.
Q. Are Humanist Wedding ceremonies legally recognised?
A. Humanist wedding ceremonies are legally recognised in Scotland, Northern Ireland Jersey, Guernsey. In England, Wales and the Isle of Man humanist marriages are not yet legally recognised*. For the legal ‘signing of the register’ you’d go to a local Register Office to complete the formalities for as little as £57. This can be done a few days before or after a humanist ceremony or at a separate event on the same day.
**Following the publication of the Law Commission report in July 2022, Humanists UK have called upon the UK Government to give legal recognition to humanist weddings in England, Wales and the Isle of Man.