“One person is not a full person. We exist in relation to others” (Margaret Atworth)

First of all if you’re here, a big “Congratulations” is probably in order!  I really hope I could be the right person to help you with your special occasion.  It was my own humanist wedding back in 2012 (to my long suffering husband Tom), that remains without question the best day of our lives and inspired me to follow this path as a celebrant.  I truly want your ceremony to be as meaningful and as magic and as ours was.

From small and intimate, to huge shenanigans, from wild and rustic outdoors to a razzle and dazzle venue; Wherever and however you chose to get married (or to renew your vows), my job is to help you to create a unique and beautiful ceremony that is absolutely you.  

How does the process work?

If you would like a chat about whether I am the right celebrant for you, or if you have any questions please do get in touch by email or by phone – I promise to never make you feel pressured into choosing me!

If you do choose to book me, great! The planning will start ideally with a face to face meeting or video chat, where we can discuss your ideas and I can capture your story (this ceremony is going to be completely unique and totally personal to you). We can talk about what you would like in your wedding ceremony, and I can help suggest ideas and readings to help you plan exactly what you want.

I’ll then begin writing the script for your big day, sending it to you for comment and changes…. I will not rest until you are entirely happy with the end result.

It’s always beneficial to get a rehearsal in just before the event itself if possible, a good opportunity to double check all the fine details and to help settle any jitters.

On the day of your celebration, I will be there early, to make sure everything is ready and to check in with you both.  I will deliver your ceremony with professionalism, with warmth and with pleasure. A presentation copy of the script will be yours to keep as a reminder of your day.

Do I have to be a humanist to have a humanist wedding?

Not at all. A humanist wedding is for anyone who wants a ceremony that replaces a religious and legal focus with something truly personal and unique, hopefully with the one shared belief that love is love.  Many choose a Humanist ceremony due to sharing different faiths or because they want to create their ideal wedding in their dream location.

As a humanist celebrant I fully support, celebrate and officiate same-sex weddings, non-binary weddings and inter-faith weddings – because basically, all you need is love, right?

Where can you have a humanist wedding?

Pretty much anywhere that you want it to be! On the beach, in your garden, your favourite café, a hill top, a barn….. Your venue or location doesn’t need a licence because we get all of that out of the way before your wedding day.  I’m genuinely happy to travel to most places – my fee will just go up a little bit to cover travel costs depending on the location

NB. Despite an ongoing high court battle, and despite legal recognition in Scotland, Humanist ceremonies in England and Wales still do not have legal authority at the moment (which means they really can be held anywhere). Couples generally find that completing the necessary paperwork for about £60 at the local register office either before or after their special day (which makes them legally wed) pretty straightforward.

How much does it cost?

Every wedding is different, so the price varies based on the type of Ceremony you want, and where you want it. (Expect to pay around £550-£650). An exact, all inclusive, quote will be provided after the first meeting. I absolutely will not then add on additional costs!

For any more information or clarification about any of the above – please feel free to call me and have a chat, or drop me an email – whether you chose to use me as your celebrant or not – I am more than happy to help.

Thank you, Emily

07811 210 232 

emily.bartram@humanistceremonies.org.uk