The duration of the ceremony will depend on the amount of content you choose to include. The more readings, music, and other elements you include can increase the duration, but it typically lasts about 30 – 40 minutes.

A humanist wedding ceremony is typically made up of an introduction (traditional entrance if you wish), words on love and marriage, music, readings, a symbolic ritual or two, vows, marriage declaration, exchange of rings, signing of the register and closing words – you can personalise your ceremony to suit you. You have a great deal of control as to how your unique ceremony can proceed.

Humanist Wedding ceremonies gained legal status in 2018. Humanist Wedding ceremonies are conducted by accredited celebrants through Humanists UK and can take mostly take place anywhere. **note that weddings cannot be conducted in Registrar’s offices and permission is sought to use private land.

• £40 administration fee payable to Humanists UK which includes Free 1 year Family Membership included.
• £22 per person payable to the District Council aligned to your venue to submit your ‘Notice of Marriage’.

These are in addition to my fees and are directly payable to the respective bodies.

• Supporting you in all aspects in the run up to the ceremony ensuring the ceremony is tailor made to your satisfaction
• Your celebrant will do this through planning meetings at a convenient location
• Supported to complete all legal aspects including marriage notification and schedules
• You will be offered samples of readings / poems / vows and symbolic gestures to extend creative suggestions and ideas for your ceremony
• You can have a rehearsal leading up to the ceremony
• I will arrive early on the day and liaise with the venue / photography / music and your readers so that everything is choreographed as it should be
• You will receive a printed presentation script of your ceremony as a keepsake of your special day following the ceremony.

Opening words
Thoughts on love and marriage
Humanist Values in marriage (optional)
Readings
3 things I love about you
The Couple’s Story
Vows
Exchanging of rings (optional)
Exchange of gifts / flowers
Symbolic actions (optional)
Candle lighting
Drinking from one cup (Quaich)
Handfasting
Sand mixing
Ring Warming
Pronouncement of marriage
Signing of the Register
Closing words