I have two favourite stories from real life, from my good friends who have used a celebrant for their weddings.
If you need an excuse for two dresses/outfits read this story first…
A fabulous idea was brought to life by one of my gorgeous friends.
The couple invited only very close friends and family to their legal wedding at the local registry office followed by a relaxed meal at a restaurant for lunch.
Imagine, being surrounded by those that are the most important in your lives, a relaxed table of 20 for lunch filling the air with laughter, hugs and memories as the bride wore a stunning dress amidst glasses being toasted.
The following day, (or you may choose longer) was her larger official wedding at a gorgeous hotel surrounded by many friends, and family. The wedding celebrant made a heartfelt service which was followed by photographs, drinks, a 3 course lunch, a rest, then a disco and buffet. Two dresses, two weddings and one amazing couple!
If you like a little secret, then read on…
Another beautiful friend of mine had their legal wedding ceremony in secret at the registry office and they didn’t tell a soul before they had their big wedding outside some time later.
For their second ceremony, they had a traditional handfasting as part of their personalised wedding celebrant service surrounded by sunshine, friends and family.
And if you’re worried about which anniversary to celebrate, their main wedding celebrant service is the one they celebrate.
Both wedding stories, and their ceremonies were special and meaningful.
For those that are unsure of how to incorporate the legal part of their wedding ceremony to tie in with their burning desire to have a truely personal service, I thought I’d share with you what a couple of my friends did which should give you an insight of options and food for thought.
Ultimately the choice is yours. Currently wedding celebrants cannot legally marry couples, hence the need to use a registrar either at an approved venue or at the registry office for the legal ceremony.
It is a real priviledge to be part of the planning of a couples wedding, to ensure that what really matters to the couple is involved, shared, reflected and personalised. It is an honour to see families blended, couples unite, and love to flourish.
For more wedding ideas why not look at me Wedding Page and see what Eternal Love Celebrant can offer, make sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page to grab some ideas of extras you may wish to include in your ceremony.