Alternative Wedding Ceremonies
Many couples these days decide not to be married in church but are dismayed to learn that civil ceremonies cannot include any spiritual elements, for example the playing of Ave Maria or spiritual poems. Should it be your wish to have a ceremony where you can include whatever you like - and hold it wherever you wish - perhaps I can help you.
In order to have your perfect Alternative Wedding Ceremony it is necessary to separate the legal aspect of marriage (obtaining a marriage licence) from the ceremony itself, as happens in Europe. Your Alternative Wedding Ceremony is then technically a Wedding Blessing and is free from all of the restrictions that surround civil marriage ceremonies. It can take place wherever and whenever you wish, incorporating your choice of poetry, music and readings as well as any spiritual or religious elements.
A marriage licence can be obtained by going to the register office sometime before the ceremony to complete the legal formalities. All you need are two witnesses (who could be strangers) and you can save your vows and the exchanging of rings for your ceremony. Should your Alternative Wedding Ceremony take place at a registered venue, you might choose to have the registrar attend so that you can deal with the legal aspect on the same day, either before or after your ceremony.
If the bride and groom should come from different faiths we can work together to create a ceremony that is respectful of both traditions
The fee of £450 includes:
- an initial meeting to enable us to get to know each other
- the preparation of a draft for your approval, incorporating your choices of music, readings, poetry etc. plus any other requirements
- assisting you with the creation of your own unique vows
- modifications of the draft until you are completely happy with the ceremony
- a rehearsal
- conducting the ceremony on the day at the venue of your choice
Travel expenses may be payable
