Wendy Weavin

Each humanist wedding ceremony and civil partnership celebration is unique, dignified and deeply personal. Humanists look on marriage as an equal partnership and a serious commitment that involves mutual love, support and respect and a humanist ceremony is a time when you can declare all that you feel for each other in a way that is right for you.

No two ceremonies are the same and yours will be prepared just for you. It can be as traditional or as unusual as you like. The ceremony will focus on the two of you and your commitment to each other. It usually begins with the celebrant welcoming everybody on your behalf and perhaps explaining why you have chosen this type of ceremony. You may want something said about how you came together, your views on marriage and the things you specially value in your relationship.

You are free to make all the important choices about words, readings and music. You can write your own vows, which can be formal or less formal, and I can help you with the wording. You can speak as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. You can exchange rings and include something a bit different such as a hand fasting or candle lighting, or other symbolic gestures you may want. You might want to involve certain friends or family members more closely in the ceremony by asking them to read some prose or poetry.