Frequently asked questions.
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What’s the difference between a Humanist Wedding and a Registry Office Wedding?
Both ceremony types are non-religious, but a Humanist ceremony is written in collaboration with you both from start to finish, and reflects your unique story. As a Humanist Wedding Celebrant, I will work with you to create something bespoke and beautiful, that hopefully draws a few happy tears on your big day!
Is it legally binding?
It is! Thanks to the hard work of Humanists UK and Northern Ireland Humanists, Humanist weddings became legally recognised in August 2018 and in January 2020, same-sex marriage was legalised in Northern Ireland. As I am an accredited celebrant through the charity Humanists UK, I am now authorised to perform legal, inclusive and accessible ceremonies for all humans in love!
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What does a Humanist Ceremony look like?
Your ceremony can be structured however you want! You and your partner have total freedom to include whatever or whoever you feel is important to the telling of your love story. The beginning of the process is me getting to know you as a couple, so we’ll meet together (where possible) and you will be able to tell me more about your plans for the day and how you could like your ceremony to look. I can offer help with writing your vows and choosing readings, as well as advising on how best to structure the set-up of the room.
Humanist ceremonies can follow a traditional structure which includes readings, music, vows and a ring exchange but they can also feature symbolic gestures, such as Hand Fasting, Sand Blending and Candle Lighting. Your ceremony can be as long or short as you choose, but a typical ceremony usually lasts around 20-30 minutes.
How do I choose a Celebrant?
Choosing the right celebrant to tell your story is vital - you are trusting them with the most important part of your big day! Hopefully after reading more about me, you will get in touch and we can begin to spark your wedding joy together!
You can also find a range of other Humanist Celebrants here:
https://humanists.uk/ceremonies/find-a-celebrant/weddings/
Do I have to be a Humanist to have a Humanist Wedding?
Absolutely not! Many people who consider themselves non-religious, don't label themselves as Humanist. Your wedding ceremony will be a unique and meaningful way to celebrate your marriage, without the constraints and traditions of a religious ceremony. However, if you are non-religious, and look to science and reason to try to live an ethical and meaningful life, then you’ll find that you do share a humanist philosophy.
If you are wondering how Humanist you might be, take this Humanists UK quiz and see!
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We don’t live in Northern Ireland at the moment, but are planning to get married there – How can we work together?
Not an issue! There are plenty of ways to get around distance, and I will communicate through video calls, emails and messaging in the run up to your wedding to make sure your nerves are completely at ease.
How soon should I book a Celebrant?
As soon as feels right for you both, but ideally as soon as possible. I can take bookings from couples 2-3 years in advance. A good time would be after you have secured your date and venue, so we can begin envisaging your plans for the day and start getting to know each other!
We would love to book you! how do we get in touch?
Thank you! If you would like to chat more and check my availability for your date, you can email me here:
Image by Kalie Reid