FAQs
FAQs
Why ‘Magpie’s Nest’?
Magpies love a bit of sparkle – they can spot a shred of shiny crisp packet a mile off. And in the same way, I’ll seek out the hidden gems in your story: the little details that make your story shine, and make it unique. My favourite bits of any ceremony are the tiny details – little in-jokes, nicknames or silly stories that belong to you alone, and that make everyone light up when they hear them.
What do you actually do?
- Meet with you face-to-face, or by videochat, to discuss your story – whether you have a clear idea of what you want already, or would like more suggestions.
- Send you a draft script, and work with you to get it just right.
- Deliver the ceremony on the day.
- Create a souvenir copy of the script for you to look back on in years to come.
I don’t:
- book venues or catering
- provide guest books or canvases.
How long does it take to write a ceremony?
To make sure we have enough time to get your ceremony just right, please contact me at least four weeks before the date you have in mind for a naming, or three months for a wedding. I may be able to help with more last-minute requests, but generally speaking, the more notice the better!
Namings
Are namings just for babies?
Not at all. Many parents combine a naming with their child’s first birthday party, but older children can be much more involved in planning their naming and taking part on the day. It’s a great way to celebrate the joining of two families or a child finding their forever home as well.
What does a naming usually include?
Unlike a Christening, the structure is totally flexible, but it might include readings, music or poems, a series of promises to your child, the nomination of guideparents, or a symbolic action like lighting a candle or planting a tree.
Where can namings be held?
Anywhere you like! Unlike weddings, there aren’t any legal rules or requirements. So depending on how many people you’re expecting, you could hire a room above a pub, or a local community hall. There are plenty of free options too – a local park, a friend or relative’s house or even your own back garden. It’s up to you!
How can my mum/nephew/friends/granny/other children be involved?
Whether you want them to be guideparents or not, there are loads of ways that your friends and family can be part of the day. They might like to read a poem or play some music that sums up their hopes for your family – perhaps they’d even like to write something themselves.
You could ask each of your guests to suggest a song they want your child to know, or donate a book which means a lot to them. Or you might like them to sign a book of wishes, contribute to a string of bunting, or add their fingerprints to a collective artwork… the options are endless!
If none of those seems right, don’t worry – I can work with you to plan something that’s meaningful for you.
Weddings
Where can a wedding take place?
Pretty much anywhere! A conventional venue, football stadium, on a beach, under a tree… wherever is meaningful for you.
What about the legal bit?
Humanist weddings aren’t yet legally recognised in England and Wales, so if you want to make it legal, you will need to do that separately. Read Humanists UK’s wedding FAQs for more details, or ask me.
Do we have to exchange rings?
Not at all – there are lots of other ways to symbolise your commitment to each other: handfasting, sandblending, planting a tree, mixing a signature cocktail and drinking from the same glass, or something else entirely. And the same goes for any of the traditional wedding “stuff” that you’re uncomfortable with: wearing white, being given away, staying apart the night before and so on. If it works for you, keep it. If not, make your own tradition!