Special Ceremony Elements

Handfasting has roots in Celtic and Pagan traditions. It is a symbolic act of of binding or uniting two individuals. The term 'handfasting' refers to the joining of hands of the individuals involved, usually with the hands being tied together with cords or ribbons - the original 'tying the knot'.

During a handfasting ceremony, the couple usually face each other and hold hands. The celebrant performs a series of rituals and recites vows or blessings. The couple's hands are loosely bound together with cord and/or ribbon, symbolising their commitment to one another. The binding can be done in a variety of ways such as tying an infinity knot. 

Handfasting can be personalised to reflect the beliefs and preferences of the couple involved. The duration of handfasting can also vary, depending on how many ribbons/cords you wish to lay and tie. There is also the option to include members of your wedding party in this ceremony.

Whilst handfasting is often associated with wedding ceremonies, it is also a lovely element to include in naming, adoption and family blending ceremonies, as well as renewal of vows.

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Handfasting begins at £70 and can be included as one of the four elements in your all inclusive package.

Sand Unity Ceremonies represent the joining or blending of two individuals or families. During the ceremony, those involved have a container filled with different coloured sands. Each container represents an individual. The couple (and any others involved) take turns in pouring their sand into a larger container, symbolising the merging of their lives, families, or backgrounds.

As the sands are poured, they create a unique pattern symbolising the inseparable union and intertwining of all those involved. The resulting combined sand represents the unity that is created through marriage or the coming together of loved ones.

This ceremony is a lovely element to include children in so is perfect for not only weddings, but also naming, adoption and family blending ceremonies.

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Sand Unity begins at £60 and can be included as one of the four elements in your all inclusive package.

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Your wedding rings will be passed amongst your guests in a pouch or container. Your guests are invited to pass on a positive affirmation or good wish to you as the rings pass through their hands.

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Wedding Ring Warming begins at £30 and can be included as one of the four elements in your all inclusive package.

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A wedding lasso involves the use of a lasso or cord, typically made of flowers, beads or satin, which is placed in a figure-eight shape and draped around the necks  and shoulders of the couple. The loops symbolise the unity and eternity of the couple's marriage.

Lassos can be personalised with flowers, beads and charms, in whatever colour the couple chooses.

The lasso ceremony can take place before, during or after the couple exchange vows.

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The lasso element begins at £70 and can be included as one of the four elements in your all inclusive package.

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A brief ceremony involving the couple and up to two witnesses. Each person signs a keepsake parchment or certificate which is then presented to the newlyweds.

Remember, this is a ceremonial parchment or certificate; it is not a legal document or certificate.

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Ceremony Certificates are £45 and  can be included as one of the four special elements in your all inclusive package.

Jumping the Broom is a broom hopping tradition said to symbolise a new beginning whilst sweeping away the past. It is also said to signify two families becoming one. After completing your wedding vows, you quite literally jump into your new life together, leaving any old uncertainties behind.

Brooms are typically old-fashioned style brooms that are decorated to the couple's preference.

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Jumping the Broom begins at £40 and can be included as one of your four special ceremony elements in your all inclusive package.

The Unity Candle element symbolises the joining of two individuals or families into one. 

At the beginning of the ceremony a representative from each side of the couple's families, often the mothers or close relatives, will light the taper candles representing each family or the individual lives of the couple. 

Following the vows and exchange of rings, the couple takes the lit taper candles and together lights the unity candle. This symbolises the unity of their life, families and love.

Some couples choose to incorporate music, readings and/or vows during the Unity Candle ceremony to further enhance its meaning.

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The Unity Candle element begins from £60 and can be included as one of your four special elements in your all inclusive package.

The Cocktail Ceremony element is a romantic addition to a ceremony, representing the blending of lives.

As a couple, you choose a favourite cocktail (or any other drink) that holds significance for you both - this could be down to personal taste, heritage or a favourite region. Prior to the ceremony, two glasses are filled with your chosen cocktail, or cocktail ingredients. During the ceremony, you take it in turns to pour your chosen drink into a single, shared glass or decanter.

This act signifies your willingness to create a harmonious and united future.

After the cocktail is poured, you each take a sip from the shared glass, symbolising shared experiences, joys and responsibilities as you embark on married life together.

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A Cocktail Ceremony starts at £55 and can be included within the all inclusive package. 

A Wishing Tree is a creative and interactive element that can be incorporated into a ceremony. It involves the use of a decorated tree or standalone structure where guests can write and hang wishes, blessings, or messages for the couple.

Guests write their messages on tags or wooden shapes which are then hung or pegged onto the tree's branches. The end result is a tree filled with heartfelt messages for the couple, which become cherished mementos of their day.

A Wishing Jar works in the same way apart from that guests place their messages in a special jar.

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A Wishing Tree or Wishing Jar begins at £65 and can be included as one of your four special ceremony elements in your all inclusive package.

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This is a beautiful element that involves the exchange of roses as a symbol of love and commitment. 

As a couple, you will select two roses - usually of different colour - that hold significance for you. At the beginning of the ceremony, the roses are placed in separate vases or containers. As you exchange roses, you might wish to exchange vows or promises. Alternatively, this moment could can be accompanied with a reading or music.

After the roses are exchanged, you place them in a single vase, representing the merging of lives and the creation of a harmonious union.

Often couples choose to present roses to their mothers or children instead of, or as well as, each other to express their love and gratitude. 

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Rose Ceremonies begin at £30 and can be included within the all inclusive package.

Before the wedding ceremony, couples write love letters to each other which are then sealed in an envelope. These letters, along with a favourite bottle of wine (or drink of choice) and any other memorabilia are placed in a wine box.

It is customary to seal the box and not open it until an anniversary of your choice.

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The Wine Box and Love Letter element begins at £65 and can be included as one of your four special elements from the all inclusive package.

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Tree planting symbolises growth, unity and your commitment to nurturing your relationship over time. It is a meaningful and eco-friendly way to celebrate the union of two individuals.

The choice of tree is up to you; you could opt for a tree that represents love, strength or endurance. It could be a native tree or one that holds significance to you.

This element can be customised to include other family members or close friends who might add soil or water. Readings, poetry and music can also be incorporated to reflect nature and the significance of the ceremony. You could also add a plaque or marker with names, wedding date and a meaningful message on it. 

As the tree grows and flourishes, it serves as a beautiful reminder of your wedding day whilst contributing to the environment.

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Tree planting starts at £40 and can be included within the all inclusive package.

All special elements can be customised to suit your individual preferences.

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There is also the option to include bespoke elements, specifically design for you and your ceremony.

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Do you want your dog to be involved in your ceremony? 

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Perhaps you want to include something from your favourite film?

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Is it an absolute must to include a reference to your favourite band?

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All of the above, and more, is possible. Your celebrant-led ceremony will be specifically tailored to you.

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Contact me to discuss your ideas.