Frequently asked questions

Humanist ceremonies are non-religions weddings and funerals (and namings) that give you complete freedom to celebrate authentically and as personal as you want by working closely with your celebrant to create a ceremony that includes any rituals that are meaningful to you. Rituals helps us transition from one state to the other, but you get to choose how. Marry where you want, when you want, how you want and to whomever you want. Give your loved one a send off fit for them, not for tradition. Find out more with Humanists UK.

You don’t have to be! As long as we gel and you don’t want a religious service, we’re good. If you care about equality, freedom and compassion for people, animals and the planet, you probably have humanist views. You can have your humanist ceremony without the label, though.

While I don’t do religion, I completely understand that it can be important to some family members. If you want to add a reading or some music that has religious or spiritual connotations, you absolutely can. Your ceremony is about your wishes, but we can still care about those that you choose to share it with.

A humanist ceremony is completely bespoke, so it is full of personal stories and rituals that are meaningful to you. As I get to know your, as your celebrant, I will find all those things out, what you would like out of it and how you’d like your guests to feel. A wedding ceremony often includes words on love and marriage, your love story, commitment rituals (e.g. ring exchange, hand fasting etc) as well as readings and music, but the sky’s the limit when it comes to choosing your elements. Check out some fun rituals on my blog and how it all works on my ‘weddings’ page.

A humanist celebration of life can be just a personal and and meaningful - and take place anywhere, not just the crematorium - including music, readings and other elements.

Absolutely yes. There are literally no restrictions to where you can have it, as you are not bound by legalities. I am mostly free-range and gladly conduct weddings anywhere outdoors (I’ll come inside for a good one too).

Absolutely yes. You shouldn’t have to ask. But I’m glad you did. I conduct ceremonies for any persons no matter their identity, sexuality, background, ability or appearance (not an exhaustive list) and I have adopted the core values set out by LGBTQ Equality Weddings guide to inclusivity.

I am wild about our natural world and I prefer to work with others that feel the same. So, to consider the environment in my ceremonies, I do not take part in the use of non-biodegrabable confetti/glitter, release of balloons/lanterns/animals or destruction of wild life. I do donate to plant a tree and dedicate it to you, when I plan your ceremony. You can read more about my values on my about page.

Yes, please! As an ex-English teacher, I love nothing more than working with words. I also know a thing or two about what works in a ceremony. When you book with me, I’ll send you my guide to writing your own vows as well as other tips and advice for what to include in your ceremony. I will also be available to workshop/chat about any elements or your vows during our process. You’ll be supported all the way.

I am afraid not. While we wait for a bill to be passed in parliament, you’ll have to pop to the register office to do the legal bit. Most people do this just before their Big Fat Humanist Wedding and it can be done quickly and cheaply. Separating the legal paperwork and the celebration leaves you so many more options anyway. There are no restrictions in a Humanist ceremony!