Photo Gallery of Humanist Wedding Ceremonies

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How do you know you have the BEST couples? When

How do you know you have the BEST couples?
When you throw out the wild invitation for your NYC couple (you’ve only had the chance to zoom with) to meet you in Toronto so we could hang out in person … AND THEY COME! 😍
THEN, you loved meeting each other (we talked and talked so much that the ‘lunch’ staff handed over to the ‘evening’ staff! 🤣) that you hook back up again at the end of the night for margaritas! 🍸
Inside all of this sheer bonding brilliance, (including only realising the CN Tower was behind us as we went to take a selfie!! 🤣) there is also a genuine, honest and dedicated work ethic. The ceremonies I craft are made all the richer for everything I get to know about you, and equally, how much you can get to know your celebrant.
I adore listening to stories being told and shared, picking up the nuances and dynamics as you share anecdotes, answering any and all questions, laughing and finding our common ground, learning trust and intimacy, working out how to solve any queries, making you feel comfortable and safe with me. These things are always at the heart of my practice.
A humanist ceremony always goes the extra mile. But I’m in awe of @dominic.cowler and @thejoshschneider for truly travelling the extra mile(s). I’ve loved every single second.
(And yes! You do both know what I simply won’t be able to keep out of your ceremony….😜😜🐔🤫)
#lovemycouples #fiancéfiancécelebrantselfie #wherestheCNTower #cntower #HumanistCeremony #gettoknowyourcouples #gettoknowyourcelebrant #celebrantwedding #humanistcelebrant #fromnyctotorontotodorset #camehouse #camehousewedding #funceremony #importantceremony #businessispleasure #zenasparish #wordsmatter #wordscount #puttheworkinforrichreward #travellingcelebrant #gotheextramileforyourcouples #notjustworkmyvocation #humanistcelebrant #humainstcelebrantincanada #engagedaf

Six years and one day ago we all 100% enjoyed the

Six years and one day ago we all 100% enjoyed the genuine theatre of “who has the rings?” Not one of the best men knew that we had sneakily given them to Dad who then went and found them hidden in an outhouse nearby. It was truly and deliciously joyful! And created this magic photo moment.
Humanist ceremonies providing photographers with pure gold since 1810*
*that number may be made up, but you know what I mean 😜😜
Happiest of anniversaries @maryanneweddings and James xx
📸 @beccygoddard
#humanistceremonies #magicmoments #humanistcelebrant #zenasparish #createmomentsthatbringyoujoy #whohastherings #weddingrings #creativeceremony #ceremonymagic #maketraditions #playfulmeaning #delightyourguests #HumanistCeremony #ceremonyideas

Finally, we celebrated Laura and James! 2019 we

Finally, we celebrated Laura and James!
2019 we all met. 2020 by the skin of their teeth they were able to sign their legal papers in a covid compliant tiny ceremony; masks, plague crosses on chairs and all. The lockdown brought them something wonderful - their beautiful daughter and yesterday we at last celebrated them they way they deserved, surrounded by the people who really mean something to them at a location deeply personal to their story. As it always should have been.
As I creep closer to my final covid postponed weddings I’m feeling a poignancy, an intensity to the relationships that have been forged over all of these delayed years. I think I hug my couples that tiny bit tighter as I leave, because we’ve truly been on a journey together. My collection of #lovetour2020 couples whose ceremonies never were, but now are, will forever be deeply enmeshed in my heart.
The celebrations are that tiny bit more poignant, hard earned, revelled in, soaked up and absorbed for the prolonged anticipation they held. Gratitude and reflection are impossible to ignore. Relief and jubilation eek out of every moment.
I missed my job in so many ways during covid, but I’m grateful for the extra time it gave me with some truly extraordinary people.
#bridegroomcelebrantselfie #fromcelebranttofriend #lovetour22 #zenasparish #findingthesilverlinings #loveinthetimeofcovid #humanistceremonies #humanistwedding #travellingcelebrant #lovemyjob #marrysomewhereimportanttoyou #wordscount #storytelling #celebratewiththoseyoulove #negronisforthewin #onelonechickenwasourguestallday #silkhandfasting

WE DO!!! And Emma and Franklin’s friends and fam

WE DO!!! And Emma and Franklin’s friends and family really did!
Hearing all of your guests shout WE DO, when I ask them if they promise to support you, moments after you have both said I DO is goosebump inducing joyfulness!
Your guests are your people, they are your support network, your loved ones, your community, the people you give a damn about and they aren’t just bums on seats, they are you active witnesses, they will help to hold you accountable. Let them cheer their support!
They never need a prompt card, but it’s damn fun holding it aloft nonetheless. I did this at my first ever wedding all the way back in 2010 and have been proudly igniting this verbal wall of affirmation that wallops and buoys you ever since.
The cheers at Emma and Franklin’s wedding were off the charts. As spectacular as the incredible flower colums we were stood in between! Thank you Yann for capturing this magic.
@lifestorieswedding @yann_audic
@emmahollyjones
@franklinjleonard
@chateau_talaud
#rousingwedossince2010 #lovetour22 ##zenasparish #yourguestsareyoyrwitnesses #guestsmatter #dreamyflowers #humanistceremonies #humanistwedding #wordscount #humanistweddingfrance #theceremonyisthebestbit

Be free to life your life without fear or judgemen

Be free to life your life without fear or judgement.
#solidarity #pride #lovewins #lgbtq #50thanniversarypride #youdonthavetoaskhere #pride50 #humanistceremonies #humanistwedding #lgbtqwedding #kisswhoeverthefuckyouwant #kiss

Just a HUGE dose of happy faces this morning!!!!

Just a HUGE dose of happy faces this morning!!!!
Few things make me happier than getting love assaulted by my couples and after waiting THREE years for this, I believe I squealed in sheer delight.
Much more to say about @samantha_kay_oliver and @ryanmatthews03 ceremony, but as with so many of this #lovetour22 ceremonies, I’m a little stunned and bewildered by the magnificence of them all, so prepare for an onslaught of catch up posts over July/August when I take a little break to help (co)write The Little Book of Humanist Funerals (☺️🙆🏻‍♀️☺️eeeek!)
For now though. Look at this squish of love and happiness. May you all have equal delight today.
#bridegroomcelebrantselfie #lovemycouples #zenasparish #loveinthetimeofcovid #atlastwed #kissesticklemepink #secretgardenwedding #unexpectedoutpouringsoflovearethebest

ENTER YOUR CEREMONY HOW YOU DAMN WELL PLEASE! •

ENTER YOUR CEREMONY HOW YOU DAMN WELL PLEASE!
•Walking down an aisle
•Having no aisle
•Being accompanied by a parent/sibling/child/friend/solo
•Walking in together
•Already being in place and letting your guests walk down the aisle
•Dancing down the aisle
•Sliding down a shiny aisle on your knees like a four year old later on the dance floor….
The choice is ABSOLUTELY yours.
Often the antiquated and patriarchal historical associations of being walked down the aisle can sit uncomfortably. We only have to hold on to traditions that mean something to us, so think carefully about what things make you comfortable and uncomfortable and make decisions from there. Based on what matters to you and what delights you. (There is a brilliant chapter exploring all of this in the Little Book of Humanist Weddings.)
Nico and Jen made the most spectacular decision. Coming in on an old bike that had belonged to his family for 20 years. Originally Jen was going to be pedalling and Nico would be in the front, but a last minute dress decision meant it worked better this way round, with Jen holding the boom box and bringing the music to our gathering instead. It was nothing short of gleeful. And a proper surprise for every single guest. Delight all round!
#frenchwedding
#humanistceremony #civilpartnership #bikedowntheaisle #changingtraditions
#decisionsthatdelightyou
#aisletraditions #lovetour22 #zenasparish #humanistcelebrantabroad #humanistcelebrantfrance
#howtowalkdowntheaisle #weddingbike #purejoy #forestwedding #masbazan

Celebrating Emma and Franklin was a bloody joy.

Celebrating Emma and Franklin was a bloody joy.
We had surprise readings, the most exquisite entrance music, laughter, tears, cheers, whooping, personal vows (which made me happy I had some glorious flowers to hide my watery eyes behind), and a confetti canon cacophony to some vintage Whitney remixed.
But, the most extraordinary bit was when we had an unplanned visit from the most gorgeous dog, mid ceremony just as we were talking about E&F’s late dog Nick. A proper doggy blessing - he’d somehow found his way out of his room and came to find us all. This really is one of the best things about live events. The unplanned magic.
#bridegroomcelebrantselfie #zenasparish #lovetour22 #weddingsinfrance #humanistceremony #havesuitcasewilltravel #dogsarethebest #dogsinweddings

How I feel about confetti encapsulated by the bril

How I feel about confetti encapsulated by the brilliant Tobi.
Happy Sunday.
#weddingdetritus
#joywashere
#joyishere
#confetti
#swimminginjoy

Our little Forest of Love is ever growing! For e

Our little Forest of Love is ever growing!
For every single booking I am graced with I have a tree planted in dedication to you in @natforestco
You get a choice of a Wild Cherry, Oak, Hazel, Lime, Rowan, Birch (😜) or I can surprise you with a random selection.
This isn’t an arbitrary gift. This is deeply considered. We owe the planet more than we take and this gesture creates more than it seems. It may only be one tree, but then a few trees become a coppice and collectively they eventually become a forest of their own.
And the trees support everything around them, encouraging a rich and vibrant ecosystem. You don’t need me to bring the simile to you and your relationship, community and support network.
But suffice to say, every time I get a booking and ask the National Forest to dedicate one of these trees to you (you get a certificate 🌱🌳🍃🍂) my heart beats a soupçon harder.
So thank you.
#zenasparish #forlovessakeplantatree
#wedontwalkthisplanetalone
#loveandnurture #loveandnature #humanistcelebrant #humanistwedding #thelovetourforests #since2019

MAKE CHOICES THAT DELIGHT YOU! It’s taken me a

MAKE CHOICES THAT DELIGHT YOU!
It’s taken me a while to process Fiona and Barish’s incredible wedding.
It could have been because I truly love them. I’ve found their joy & determination in the face of the job changes and distances between them ever since I met them back in 2019 to be inspiring. It could be because every time we met they fell in love with Laika or I fell in love with their dog Bohdi. Or it could be because I am easily bought by a cornish pasty in my pocket on my way home 😉
But ultimately it’s because I admire their choices. Those choices created an atmosphere which can not be bought or faked. One of inclusion & sheer having-fun delight. Something that can occasionally get lost in the momentum of the wedding machine.
•They have lived, fallen in love, had to leave & returned to Cornwall. Their ceremony always had to be down here.
•They really wanted to get married simply, with a view & the food which they fell in love over. So, they persuaded a pizza place with one of the best views in Cornwall, to let them get married there. It was the first wedding they have ever done & they care about their loyal customers so the only day they were willing was monday. So Fiona and Barish got married on a Monday.
•Their dog Bohdi had to be involved. He was the best deliverer of a certificate I have ever seen. He had the best collar - made especially for the day, Dog of Honour.
•Post ceremony everyone had a cream tea & the best sparkling cider I have ever tasted.
•They had an hour and a half of unlimited freshly baked pizza as their wedding breakfast. EVERYONE loved it!
•Without a care in the world, Fiona & Barish ran into the sea. Yes it made great photos, but trust me, they would have done this anyway as they knew it would lure everyone to take off their shoes and follow them to the waters edge.
I’m so glad the weather blessed them, even though it was torrential an hour before & neither of them gave a damn.
I applaud you both for every single one of your decisions, for how much you love your family & friends and for being true to one another during every second of this process. Dammit, I’m not ashamed to say, I love you.
#realwedding #lovetour22

I’m terrible at SHARING feedback. I bloody ado

I’m terrible at SHARING feedback.
I bloody adore getting it and it means the world to me and I treasure it and pour over every word. But I rarely SHARE it! Because I feel it’s special and intimate and very personal to me.
Then a couple of nights ago, I received a gorgeous message whilst in the company of my friend. It made me a little choked up so I showed it to them and they said, why don’t I see this on your Instagram? I pointed out that I do share occasionally. And they said, “how are other couples supposed to know how incredible their ceremony CAN be?? SHARE IT!”
And so, with a good deal of self aggrandising reticence, but a hugely proud heart here’s a snippet of some of the BLOODY LOVELY messages I’ve received this month.
I know I’ve used this hashtag for a solid 11 years now, but somehow it’s never lost its shine for me. #lovemycouples
You really are an extraordinary collection of humans and you have all enriched and made my life better. Thank you! It’s a privilege still. In every way.
(The last slide is a photo which fully captured how much I fall in love too!!!! I’m embarrassed I ended up photobombing their first dance in this way, but that dappy, heartfelt look was real! 🤣🤣😍🤦🏻‍♀️💚 chances are I AM going to fall head over heels in love with you!)
#fullheartstillspaceformore #humanistcelebrant #overadecadeoflovetours #storytellingweddings #fromcelebranttofriend #theceremonycounts #zenasparish #eventhereluctantcanenduplovingthierceremony

Occasionally the pandemic provides an unexpected g

Occasionally the pandemic provides an unexpected gift and for me this came in the form of Julia and Oliver. With covid scuppering their original plans, they married in an intimate legal ceremony back in 2020. Yesterday they both had the sheer delight of marrying each other again and they asked me to create this second ceremony ☺️
As we wrote ”Julia and Oliver aren’t renewing their vows today, they are reconnecting with them and reaffirming them based on what they have learnt from their first year of marriage and in celebration of what it means to be standing before you all today.” And truly, it was a profoundly special moment.
The celebration they deserved was more than made. Every reading was personalised, J&O’s vows made almost everyone’s eyes wet and we revelled in their story from start to finish. Best of all, we ended the ceremony with a magnificent bit of choreography 🕺🏽💃🏻🎉 with all of us singing their exit song (as practiced by everyone on the coach to the venue!!!☺️☺️) and in the dance break, not only dancing but creating a double length human aisle to add to the end of their already primed aisle of confetti-canoners (one of my absolute favourite parts of yesterday was ascertaining who looked the most canon-skilled and gifting them their canons!) As the last minute of the song approached, I set off the first canon and Julia and Oliver danced down the aisle to a cacophony of singing, dancing, whoop whooping and confetti absolutely everywhere. I was worried my choreography wouldn’t work, but it worked a seamless dream!!!
So, I don’t thank covid for that many things, but bringing Julia and Oliver into my life is one of the gratitudes.
🏠 @notleyabbeyofficial
📷 @angelawardbrown
🎥 @akfilmsweddings
🎵 @marcus_speaker
🌸 Lily Lupin
#bridegroomcelebrantselfie #bridegroomcelebrantphotographervideographerselfie #weddingdetritus #joywashere #zenasparish #dancedowntheaisle #getmarriedtwice #celebrateproperly #lovemycouples #humanistceremony #humanistwedding #berkshirecelebrant #berkshirewedding #notleywedding #lovetour22 #confetticannonandsonggotogetherperfectly #wordscount

Caroline and Jacky wed under the the most enormous

Caroline and Jacky wed under the the most enormous and glorious cedar tree today at @garthmylhall - The tree felt like nature’s own cathedral and held us all perfectly.
We all cried (and blame Jacky and his vows for that!) we all laughed, there was Mandarin translation, doctors and surgeons from all specialities and the biggest cheer for Caroline’s brother, who as an ambulance driver is the most essential! We signed as witness to the day an incredible portrait of them both and ate the best poached peaches I’ve ever had.
And I caught Jacky and Caroline holding each other’s hands throughout the speeches and my sentimental old heart got all warm.
Caroline and Jacky didn’t want to see the ceremony script before the wedding, so today was one of those days where I’m terrified and delighted in equal measure. It’s incredible to feel and witness their genuine responses to the script, but without the final nod of approval it’s quietly frightening for me too. In the best possible way.
Thank you both so much for trusting me. 💚
Truly, it’s a bloody delight to be back in full #lovetour22 swing…
#confettiinhairdontcare #bridegroomcelebrantselfie #humanistceremony #welshwedding #zenasparish #lovemycouples #weddingtree
🏠@garthmylhall
🌸@lunabloom_
📷@rocksaltphoto
🎥@shutterboxfilms

#weddingdetritus #joywashere #iwillnevertireofta

#weddingdetritus
#joywashere
#iwillnevertireoftakingphotosofweddingdetritustheyaremyfavourite
#childrenatweddings
#lovetour22
#confettiscramble
#treasure

Today’s woodland wedding was quite magical. Nat

Today’s woodland wedding was quite magical. Nat and Adam knew they had found the perfect place to represent them when they discovered @thedreys - it was so atmospheric under the trees’ canopy the rain very gently decided to join in. But not in a disruptive way, simply adding the pitter patter of sound and a scent to the woodland floor that was somewhat intoxicating.
As @natlimbrey and Adam spend so many of their happy memories hiking, adventuring, getting engaged in gale force winds at Clashnessie Falls - an atmospheric forest couldn’t have been more apt.
We all shared in some Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing “bathing in the forest atmosphere, or taking in the forest through our senses.”) to remember those who weren’t able to be with us - I’ve not specifically done this for a period of time within the ceremony before, but it worked so beautifully and was an incredibly special shared moment.
And Nat and Adam’s friend discovered a poem to surprise them with which in my 11 years conducting weddings, I hadn’t heard before. Swipe to read. It’s really ✨👌🏼🌒
Thank you Nat and Adam for trusting me with your story, your ceremony, your love. And may the ever so slightly rain smudged certificate always bring you the remembrance of the love that was surrounding you in that little nook of woodland!
#bridegroomcelebrantselfie #lovetour22 #forestwedding #shinrinyoku #woodlandwedding #atmosphericwedding #atmosphericceremony #humanistceremony #wordscount #zenasparish #michaeldonaghy #humanistcelebrant #uniqueceremony #createmagic
#storytell #storyshare #sequinsinthewoodland
📷 @kirstymackenziephotography
🦸🏻‍♀️@the_wedding_dolls
🌲🌳 @thedreys
🌸🌼 @the_floweralchemist

Ibizan wedding - well worth the wait! It is alway

Ibizan wedding - well worth the wait!
It is always such a privilege to be invited to create a ceremony for this beautiful island, where memories seem to be made ten fold. Every ceremony I have done here has been so packed full of personality, love and desire for guests to have the time of their lives and Megan and Rob’s was a perfect example.
Postponed twice, this was third time lucky with a kapow!
Megan and Rob invited their very favourite people, guests who meant the world to them and as such, when Rob threw down the gauntlet ‘we can’t pretend we are anything but us, we have to have a ceremony that reflects that’ I was in my element. This is what ceremony is for! To make memories, be honest, laugh our heads off, cry our eyes out, smile and and be grateful we are all alive and gathered - the full roller coaster of life!
Rob and Megan’s story is so bloody wonderful, so funny, so unexpected, so damn delicious that we all got to revel in it properly.
2 sensational self penned readings, by groomsman, bridesmaid and bridesman. Achingly funny, with just the right touch of poignance.
Personal vows that had my little eyes a-welling.
And Rob gifted every single one of us with personalised magnesium place settings. He invented this particular alloy. The bonus of marrying a scientist 🙂
The sun shone and set magnificently, Negronis flowed, Paella (a meal important to their story) was served, a dream team was gathered and man alive did we celebrate the sheer brilliance of Megan and Rob’s marriage.
Ibiza really does have a special kind of magic to it. As do Megan and Rob ✨✨
👰🏻‍♀️@megzob1 🤵🏻@rthorn1000 🦸🏻‍♀️@criscrownibiza
📸@natashamarshallphotography
🎥@weddingvideoibiza
#bridegroomcelebrantselfie #lovetour22 #ibizawedding #uniqueibizawedding #memorableibizawedding #loveandsunsets #ibizacelebrant #gettoknowyourcelebrant #weddinginspain #humanistceremony #wordscount #zenasparish #europeancelebrant #englishspeakingcelebrantspain #ceremonythatsoundslikeyou #ibizamakesgoodmemories

Yes there’s a thumb in this shot! ..Because you

Yes there’s a thumb in this shot! ..Because you follow photographers for the exquisite perfection and me for the real life adventures 😜
Sincerely though, this #bridegroomcelebrantselfie means the absolute world to me because (and I’m certain he won’t mind me saying) James wasn’t convinced from the outset that a wedding let alone a celebrant was a good idea for him. And look at these beams in this shot. My heart explodes!
Don’t get me wrong. There was never even a millimetre of doubt that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Sophie, that truth and commitment has been long acknowledged. He just wasn’t certain a wedding, a personal ceremony and all the shenanigans that accompany it were for him. And this is where I absolutely bloody love my job the most. Making those hesitations or resistances become the moments of brilliance to be treasured and remembered for ever and most of all to be enjoyed in the moment. The most important part!
I too have hesitancies over the institution of marriage, especially it’s patriarchal history. I make no secret of this. But I’m also convinced it’s part of what makes me good at my job, my constant and unquenchable enquiry into why a couple are choosing to get married?
And let me reiterate that - choosing- because we are privileged enough in this country to mainly not have to do this out of obligation. So the reasons behind getting married are endlessly fascinating and continuously different for every couple I create a ceremony for. Which is why every ceremony I craft is to make you, the couple, feel proud, confident, comfortable and HAPPY inside every moment of it.
Swipe to the next slide to see the brilliant words S&J just sent me. And this is what makes the role I get to play with you the most special and rewarding thing. S&J getting to know you both, finding trust and comfort with you both - the pleasure was absolutely all mine.
#zenasparish #humanistwedding #wordscount #funceremony #yourceremony #lovetour22

I’ve just been sent this little video by @gem.k8

I’ve just been sent this little video by @gem.k84 @tatlioglu2014 @antonia_lloyd85 and Charlie and my heart leapt out of my chest!
Truly #zenasparish
Timor&Gemma 22.04.17
Antonia&Charlie 17.07.21
#caniusebythepowerofzenaandnotbeadick?

Five years! From this first photo on their wedding

Five years! From this first photo on their wedding day to yesterday at Violet’s naming. And what a privilege it is to go on this journey with the astounding Ella and Rory.
When covid stripped me (and so many others) of my job, I had a really wonderful clarity of realisation. That amongst the ashes of a pandemic I could see that my life was interwoven with my work. My vocation. I have the privilege of a real immersive experience that the word job is just too small for.
Couples, like Ella and Rory who I am so proud to also call friends, make what I do the absolute joy that it is.
Yesterday we celebrated Violet Lemon Rose Evans in her naming ceremony. We interwove stories and reflections from not just her little life so far, but from her godparents, her grandparents and her one true love, Rosie the dog - who barked multiple times as we talked about her. Definitely agreeing 😉
We were able to reflect on how rich and real the journey through life together is as we talked about and honoured Ella and Rory’s first daughter Millie, who sadly passed away before she was able to experience this world. We shared how integral she is to the very fabric of Violet and their family. And how all of their daughters will share her middle name Rose.
Ella and Rory are that beautiful combination of honest and heartfelt, realistic and funny and most of all kind. Violet has been born into a warm and generous family and reaching out and sharing that with their extended family of friends and relatives yesterday was a sheer magnificent pleasure. The sun shone. Violet was wrapped in love and the ceremony was so full of her and the promises and care that surround her that I was as ever humbled at the role I get to share in peoples lives.
Thank you @__ellaevans and @illusion.dc for all the trust and love you share with me. It’s a damn pleasure to be your family celebrant 😘🥰
#zenasparish #namingceremony #humanistceremonies #stillbirthawareness #sands #lovewins #wordscount #familycelebrant #lovetour22

Shot 1 - when Joe and Emily love you enough to cro

Shot 1 - when Joe and Emily love you enough to crouch.
Shot 2 - when they stand back up and their 6ft plus to your 5ft 2 shines ☺️☺️☺️
(Groom’s dad - “are you really that small? Zena, you project taller!” 🤣🤣😍)
#bridegroomcelebrantselfie #lovemycouples #zenasparish #lovetour22 #aswarbyweddings #humanistceremony #aswarbycelebrant #realweddings #tallandsmall #fromcelebranttofriend

Never fails to make my day. #weddingdetritus

Never fails to make my day.
#weddingdetritus

We met in 2018. To be wed in April 2020… Or,

We met in 2018.
To be wed in April 2020…
Or, April 2021…
But today. Just now. We created #finallyshaw
We’ve had cliffside hot chocolates, Dartmoor pub pies, zoom gazing and bless their wonderful souls more and more homework from me along the way. And it’s been a privilege. To find a covid silver lining, I’ve enjoyed having you both close for four years and the memory of pronouncing you married today will always make my eyes water in the very best of ways. Congratulations @quitamwest and Aaron, we at last got the #bridegroomcelebrantselfie we’d been waiting for.
#1447days #zenasparish #lovemycouples #celebrantjourney #knowyourcouples #wordscount #loveincornwall @dentaldinosaur #trevenna #realweddings #worththewait #lovetour22

Quita, Aaron and I have been on a long journey tog

Quita, Aaron and I have been on a long journey together. Meeting two years before their planned wedding in April 2020 - the global pandemic truly altered that waiting date! But, 1447 days later and FINALLY, today, I get to celebrate them both properly. And it’s going to be spectacular!!!
#thereaintnowaitlikeacovidwait #humanistceremony #cornishwedding #cornishcelebrant #anticipationforthewin #love #lovetour22 #zenasparish #trevenna #finallyshaw

Well hello #lovetour22 - I do believe my knees are

Well hello #lovetour22 - I do believe my knees are weak and my tummy has butterflies. I think you’re going to sweep me off my feet…
…and I can’t wait.
@saradon83 and Paul’s daughter told me that marriage means “mummy and daddy kiss” and those are the wise words we ended today’s ceremony with. What a wonderful, wonder of a blue sky’d, human communing, six years waiting, magnificence of a day.
#lovemycouples #bridegroomdaughtercelebrantselfie #zenasparish #londonwedding #humanistceremony #reallove #realwedding #wisewordsofafiveyearold #bestceremony #barbicanwedding #love #bathedinthepurpleglowofleds

It’s worth remembering that you can have your ce

It’s worth remembering that you can have your ceremony WHEREVER you would like to. Life is all about making memories and these memories forged between @alexcooper @bestburrows, their friends, family and me, six years ago are as fresh in my mind as if they were yesterday. Live lives less ordinary. We only have the one.
See stories for more photos.
#happyanniversary #destinationweddingcelebrant #haveyourceremonyanywhere #mountaintopceremony #italianwedding #dolomites #sancassiano #zenasparish #wearabrightlycolouredcoat #humanistcelebrant #travelcelebrant #chooseaweddingdestinationthatmeanssomethingtoyou #makememories #weddingmemories #brideonskis #groomonsnowboard

Marian and Rob were my first wedding of #lovetour2

Marian and Rob were my first wedding of #lovetour22 - and what a start! Riding the coat tails of Storm Eunice and Franklin - Marian became Mrs Wild, in a wildly appropriate manner!
Marian knew, whatever the weather, she would be arriving by boat to meet Rob and us all at the Boat Shed - a place they both pass daily whilst walking their dog (the magnificent Bessie) and so, no strangers to the weather, it was a case of we will find a way, no matter what.
The Boat Shed, by some miracle was nestled out of the strong gusts that blew us all along the cliff path and as you descended the festoon lit steps, you knew instinctually magic was going to happen down by the boat shed. And so it did.
24 special guests gathered on the quayside (red carpet laid out, wedding shoes ready to be swapped from wedding wellies) and the scent from the mulled wine wafted through the rafters. Marian’s son and his husband played Sailing By on the flute and keyboards as we all stood to welcome Marian’s approach.
The ceremony itself was a joy. So many incredible memories to celebrate and share, each guest was woven into the ceremony (the privelge of an intimate gathering), Marian’s daughter in Australia also made a surprise guest apperance (keeping that a secret was a joy!!) and the weather softened its heart - with rays of sunshine beaming down on Marian and Rob at poignant moments, and coming fully out as they kissed at the end!!!
As Marian and Rob set off back down the river to meet all their other guests at the pub in their village, I was reminded that embracing the things that mean the most to you in life, and then allowing yourselves to truly revel in them is about as good as it gets.
Oh #lovetour22 what a sterling, sterling start! #bridegroomcelebrantselfie #humanistwedding #devonwedding #realwedding #humanistcelebrant #zenasparish #weddingadventures #personalceremony #borntobewild #outdoorwedding #myailseistheriver

Valentine’s Day - Banksy brilliance. ⠀ I saw t

Valentine’s Day - Banksy brilliance.
⠀
I saw this poster at Dismaland a few years ago and it tickled me pink. If you are married a healthy dose of fantasy does not hurt one iota!
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If you are single, fantasy is a magnificent play ground.
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If you are in an open relationship fantasy can often be the precursor to reality.
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In short, the pleasure we can have in our imaginations never ages and is a source of creative and restorative joy.
⠀
So, here’s to the many fucks we never have and all the wonderful one’s we do 💚
Swipe for some more Valentine’s Day messages by the brilliant @wastedrita all found at #dismaland - one may be the right one for you…
#reallove #alternativelovemessages #imagination #foreveryone #banksy #imaginationneverages #notclintoncards #revelinlove #loveforsingles #loveformarriage #loveforall #love #wastedrita #humanistwedding #humanistlove #postbackbypopulardemand

Thank you @leegar.land for capturing just how happ

Thank you @leegar.land for capturing just how happy I truly am to see my couples for the first time on the day.
In this instance, after so many months and a long drive in a borrowed car (mine had temporarily died) in the midst of a fuel crisis - being allowed in to the sacred space of a bride’s bedroom after so much anticipation was just about the most exquisite thing. And Lee, you captured that joy. I can’t thank you enough.
As for you, @livsophlow I can’t tell you how much I love this photo and you and Sam. But hopefully, you already know. It’s been an absolute privilege getting to know you both and celebrating you properly. Thank you for sending these to me. Thank you for the treasure of the Laika photos you’ve sent (they will make an appearance here soon!!). You generated this smile in me, your open heart and deliciousness! See you soon, my village pub and I will ALWAYS welcome you. 💚
🌱 Just as the first snowdrops are appearing in my garden, so too are some sensational photos like this one from ceremonies I took last year and they are nothing short of a gift. May I take my hat off to all photographers who are still editing from last year. If I could wrap you up in love and ease your fatigue, I promise I would!! Thank you for your magnificence. Keep sending them on to me when they’re ready 😉😉😘
#lovemycouples #humanistwedding #humanistcelebrant #fromcelebranttofriend #realweddings #realweddingphotos #momentscaptured #firstglance #genuinejoy #lovemyjob #lovetour2021 #zenasparish #engagedaf

The class of #Lovetour2021 We did it! We really

The class of #Lovetour2021
We did it! We really made up for lost time. And I love each and every one of you from the bottom of my fully rejuvenated heart.
Weddings. Namings. Funerals. All moments of true celebration, gratitude and the honouring of LIFE and all of its ridiculous splendour.
As I enter my 11th year as a humanist celebrant I thank each and everyone of my couples, past, present and future for enriching my life. You’re my vocation, my pulse, my story givers, my friends, my life long compadres, my joy and my wonder.
Here’s to 2022. No matter what - revel in the stories of your own lives.
#bridgroomcelebrantselfie #fromcelebranttofriend #zenasparish #humanistcelebrant #wordscount #momentsmatter #whatagang

It would seem that even the most conscientious of

It would seem that even the most conscientious of us cannot evade the tenacity of covid.
I hold my hands up and surrender to covid today and say an odd thank you. Because although personally, this is outrageously bad timing, at least this year, I gave you everything I could! I didn’t miss a single wedding. I didn’t let a single person down. So, apart from my poor mum who will now be having to wait for a delayed Christmas! I have 100% fulfilled my celebrant duties.
That folks, is dedication 😜😜😜
Have a happy and healthy or safe and germy (much more likely!) Christmas one and all. I can’t wait to start 2022 with an even stronger immune system 🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼🤞🏼
#lovetour2021 #celebrantcommitment #lft #keeptestingstaysafe

I was recently sent the exquisite photos from my b

I was recently sent the exquisite photos from my beautiful couple Abby and Pete's wedding (which was postponed and then so deliciously awaited and then celebrated this summer). The power and intimacy in this three human look is making my heart explode this evening.
I remember these moments so viscerally, and treasure them. The love they had for each other in their eyes - shining and true, and the fact that I, incredibly, get to have some of that gaze shared with me.
I've been a little absent on here recently as my heart broke into a thousand pieces for my dog, Laika when she died. But memories like this, reality like this, brings me right back to the truth of it all. That being fully alive means being ready to feel all the feels.
And this photo captures all the feels.
What lucky humans we are.
@flo_brooks_photography thank you for this wonder of a photo.
@the_abbybond and Peter. I love you so.
@maunselhouse #humanistwedding #fromcelebranttofriend #wordscount #gettoknowyourcelebrantitmakesadifference #humanistceremony #lovemycouples #thelookoflove #vows #lovetour2021 #engagedaf #dorsetweddingcelebrant #realweddings #whenifallforyou

Laika ✨ 17th August 2008 - 29th November 2021 #

Laika ✨ 17th August 2008 - 29th November 2021
#laikathelovedog died naturally, peacefully and without pain or fear in my arms late in to the night yesterday. Thank you all for loving her, for welcoming her to your ceremonies, embracing her brilliance in any and all ways. I don’t have words at the moment. I’m so very bereft. Long live love to the best and most unique creature and companion this girl could have ever wished for.

We did something completely brilliant yesterday ☺️
This may look like an accidental phone photo, but look closely, I’m pointing to a ring box. We (myself and the best men) firmly fixed the two wedding ring boxes underneath two seats chosen at random before the ceremony.
This wasn’t a gimmick. This represented something very essential. The genuine importance of each and every one of their guests. E and S had told me when choosing their guest list it was a real labour of love. Every single invite held intention, this is their community and they need their support. S joked, “please don’t take this invitation lightly!”
One of the really powerful things about a humanist wedding ceremony is that it truly acknowledges that you aren’t holding yourselves accountable to a deity, but that your public statements of intent are being expressed in front of the people in your lives whose opinions matter to you. This is a powerful social action. And one that requires active participants. So, we should design a physical action to indicate this and forge a memory around it. And so…
…we tucked the rings under the chairs and when the time came I contextualised. Never once taking the importance of the best men and the value of the tradition out of the equation…I explained their role in hiding them and then stated -
“BUT, who actually has the rings?”
The looks of genuine excitement as everyone leaned forward was just toooooo delicious. To witness every single person engaged, full of anticipation and excitement. And genuine squeals of delight when they were found and held aloft for the best men to collect. I’ll never forget it. The atmosphere was so heightened and as E&S exchanged their rings every guests’ body language was forward leaning and engaged. Active witnesses.
Creating moments which mean that little bit more to all involved are the real moments of wonder at the brilliance of human connection for me. And yesterday was packed to the brim.
What a privilege it is to help express intention and meaning with couples and to remember that sincerity and earnestness do not have to be po-faced, we can dance around the joyful and playful too.

It’s just so DAMN special when I get to name the

It’s just so DAMN special when I get to name the children of the magnificent people I get to marry. @katiebuxton83 @ramor99 What a superb little human you have made. It was such an honour to help create today and speak again with all the important friends and family in your life. I also loved so much, what your dad said Katie - we did indeed create a real compendium of Louis life, people and loves so far. Louis reaching for me made my heart skip a beat 😉 I can’t wait to continue being part of your adventures, you spectacular Amors.
#familycelebrant #frommarriagetochildren #zenasparish #humanistceremony #humanistnamimgceremony #naming #namjngceremony #alternativechristening #secularchristening #nonreligiousbaptism #celebratinghumans #makingmemories #wordscount #storiesconnectusall

My lovely little dog has been astounding this year

My lovely little dog has been astounding this year. In spite of her two heart attacks back in April, creating rapid onset diabetes followed swiftly by complete blindness she quickly decided that being left behind wasn’t on her agenda!
13 and a bit years old, she has still accompanied me to all of the weddings she’s has been invited to and this gorgeous shot taken by the magnificent @binkynixon was at @elmorecourt back in the height of multiple-postponement-summer madness!
Laika is a lesson in intrepid fearlessness and absolute zen presence. Something I’ve done my best to channel throughout this year!
I’ll treasure this photo. Thank you Binky.
#laikathelovedog #schnauzersofinstagram #bestdogintheworld #mygreatestcompanion #dogsatweddings #myheartontheoutside #onecelebrantandherdog

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