What is a humanist wedding ceremony?
At the heart of writing poems for weddings is to understand what’s really important to the people who are getting married. The more I get to know the couples I work with, the more I realise that the most important thing is the desire to share something unique and personal with those who mean the most to them.There are so many beautiful ways to do this, from décor, to dining, to dresses – the list can seem overwhelming (and expensive).
The thing I hear most is that people want to add a real sense of themselves to the ceremony. After all, no one needs to get married any more, and many people live wonderful lives together without the “making things official”. This means that taking the step to marry is a considered act, and one that deserves to be marked with ritual and ceremony . For those seeking a different way to do this, a humanist celebration can be an exciting and fulfilling alternative to traditional ceremonies.
What exactly is a humanist ceremony?
Humanism is a way of life that is based on reason and humanity, rather than religious practice. A humanist wedding is an extension of this, offering a ceremony that is tailored represent what matters to you as a couple, with elements of ritual, bespoke poetry, readings and statements of commitment all built to create a ceremony that is a true celebration of your relationship.
What happens at a humanist ceremony?
Humanist ceremonies can be as creative as you like. You can include your children, your pets, your guests – whoever you want to be part of the ceremony can be included. If you have a shared passion, be it macrame or mountain biking, then a humanist ceremony can make it part of the occasion.
If you prefer something more traditional then that’s possible too – your ceremony can include aspects of a more conventional service, and you can still say your vows. A humanist wedding can include rituals from other cultures too, such as handfasting, jumping the broom or glass breaking.
Can I include my own readings or poems in a humanist wedding ceremony?
Of course – well chosen words are a big part of any ceremony and if you choose to include your bespoke wedding poem as part of the ceremony, you’ll add an extra layer of individuality and meaning.
Do humanists carry out LBGTQ+ weddings?
Humanism is a progressive way of thinking and very much champions the simplicity that love is love. A humanist ceremony sets out to celebrate love – nothing more, nothing less.
What about the legal bit?
Humanist weddings are legal in Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Guernsey and Jersey. If you live in England or Wales you’ll have to do the legal bit separately – you can find out how here.
Can a humanist wedding happen anywhere?
It absolutely can! Whether you want an intimate ceremony in your pretty back garden, a woodland celebration or an extravaganza on the cliff tops where you shared your first kiss you’ll find with a humanist ceremony the only limit is your imagination.
How can I find a Humanist Celebrant?
If you head to Humanists UK you can find a map of humanist celebrants in your area. It’s important to choose a celebrant who is registered with Humanists UK so you know they are fully trained and committed to creating a ceremony that will help make your day amazing.
Why choose a humanist ceremony?
For me the stand out element of a humanist ceremony is how heartfelt and personal it is. I had the pleasure of meeting to Kathryn Heaney of Lovely Day ceremonies at Hopton Court Wedding Showcase and this is how she summarises what makes a humanist ceremony so special
““I make it my mission to include anything and anyone that is important to you, and there are no restrictions on time, location, or content. I am also exclusively yours for your wedding date. You can both relax and trust that every tiny detail of your ceremony has been considered and planned for. Your guests will hear every carefully crafted word, and will feel included, valued and connected to you throughout your transition from ‘nearlyweds’ to newlyweds! It is your day.””
Your bespoke wedding poem can be included in your humanist ceremony
If you have something special in mind for your ceremony just get in touch. You may want to have a poem written for you to read to each other as part of the ceremony, or a poem to be read to you both by someone who means the world to you. Poetry is a flexible, exciting way to say how you feel, so whatever feel you want from your wedding day, I can tailor my words to work brilliantly. To find out more about the types of poems I could write to be part of your day just email kathrynannawrites@gmail.com or complete my contact form and let me tell me all about your plans! I’m a micro business so I can offer absolute flexibility, and my skills as a poet mean the work I write for you can be a real reflection of who you are as a couple.
Until next time
Kathryn
xx