Wedding Ceremonies
If you're looking at using a celebrant to undertake your wedding ceremony, micro-wedding or elopement, you're probably already aware that this means you have complete freedom to make your day whatever you want it to be and I would love to make your visions become reality.
Your Love Story
Traditionally, the largest part of a wedding ceremony are the vows, often prescribed and repeated by each person. This element is of course hugely important as it sets out your commitments to one another. These can be completely personalised, written by yourselves unaided, with my support and guidance or created by me on your behalf.
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What is often missing from traditional ceremonies however is the path which you have taken as a couple to your special day - your own personal love story.
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This is the most significant aspect of why you're getting married and has been shared in part by those you have invited so the wedding ceremonies I perform focus on this element too. By conveying your love story in carefully chosen words and anecdotes, it illustrates the reasons you have chosen each other and chronicles the journey to your special day.
You may wish to combine religious elements with secular rituals; incorporate traditions from different parts of the world; have your ceremony performed at a venue that's isn't licensed for weddings or have a service in the UK, having got married abroad. You could theme your wedding, have it audaciously different, full of laughs or serenely spiritual.
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As your celebrant, I'll take the time to get to know you both and your love story. We'll meet both in person and chat online so I can absorb all the elements you want in your special day. I can use your likes and preferences to suggest possible rituals to add to your ceremony such as the use of unity candles, oath stones or hand-fasting - literally tying the knot! Or we can go further outside the box and create something daring and unconventional. I am able to sculpt and craft your perfect ceremony to your specific needs so the outcome is one of joyous celebration.
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Whatever your inspiration, the sky's the limit when using Handcrafted Ceremonies.
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​​Prices from £600
It is a true honour to be chosen to create and perform a couple's wedding ceremony. I'd love to get to know you both and be part of your big day.
Sharon Mackinnon
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the wedding service?
The average length of a wedding service is 30 minutes but if you're choosing a celebrant-led wedding nothing has to be average! How long the ceremony lasts is entirely down to the content you want to include. You may have family and friends wishing to read some special words, you might have a flash mob choir, you may have a treasure hunt for the rings or must-have rituals. I work with you to curate the perfect ceremony however long or short you'd like it to be!
What does a wedding service comprise of?
The structure of a wedding service can be shaped around you both. Usually, guests will be seated ready for the bride to walk in but who walks down the aisle is entirely up to you. My husband and I chose to walk down together. We take the time to then hear about the journey you've taken to the day and the love story you share. Your personal promises might then follow and an exchange of rings or gifts. Rituals can be included whenever feels right. The structure is completely mouldable to how you'd like it be and can include whatever you'd like.
Are celebrant-led weddings legal?
Unfortunately in England and Wales, celebrant-led weddings are not currently legal. However, most couples attend a register office a few days before their actual wedding ceremony in order to complete the legal niceties. You won't have a full service or ring exchange so we can save the best bits for your ceremony day instead.
How much is a wedding service and how do I pay?
My fees start at £600 and this includes lots of time getting to know you both and consulting with you on the structure and content of your ceremony. I'll arrive in plenty of time on the day and liaise with your wedding planner and the venue to deliver your special, handcrafted ceremony. Additional costs are charged for rehearsals, ritual elements such as buying specific ribbons for handfasting for instance, and for travel over 20 miles from my home, or for accommodation and travel abroad. I am always open and honest about pricing so you can be assured of what you're paying for. I take a 30% deposit on booking in order to exclusively reserve your wedding date and the remainder three months prior to your day.
When will I meet you at the service?
I will arrive ahead of time to ensure the venue for your service includes the aspects we have discussed and I will be there at the front to welcome you both as you and your guests arrive to your ceremony.
How far will you travel to marry us?
I'd be honoured to perform your wedding ceremony in whichever county or country that you would like.
Can I add something to the service on the day?
Without time limits, then if there's a last minute reading you want to have or Great Auntie Clare has a poem she just must perform then as long as you're happy to add it in, we'll find a way.
Do you officiate LGBTQ+ weddings?
Absolutely! Love is about the connection two people have -nothing else matters and it would be a delight to marry you.
Are you insured?
I have been trained by the Academy of Professional Celebrants who I also have professional indemnity and public liability insurance through.
What if my question isn't answered here?
If you have any questions that you can't find an answer to here, please just ask. You can call me on 07861 177611 or email on handcraftedceremonies@outlook.com