What is a Celebrant?

What is a celebrant?

A celebrant is a person who provides a tailor made ceremony, designed to fit personal needs, without legal obligation or government restriction. During a celebrant wedding ceremony there are very few limitations as to what can be included.

From the moment you get engaged the countdown is on till the big day, with so much planning and organising to happen to make your big day special. From the table decorations, guest favours, flowers , rings and most importantly the dress and kilt outfits, there is so much to think of, and whilst ScotlandShop can help with most of your Wedding Day desires, we haven't crossed over to being able to perform your ceremonies (yet!). We have had the pleasure to talk to celebrants that perform a wide range of ceremonies and are sure to make your big day even more special, while taking on less traditional values of a wedding.

We know you pride yourself in helping couples create the perfect ceremony to showcase their love for one another, I imagine you have to work closely with the couple to achieve this? I do work very closely with couples; it is important to build a bond with them in order to tell their story. I always feel honoured to hear their love stories, I often find myself tearing up and getting emotional alongside them. I enjoy reminiscing with the couples, what was it that created that first spark. Every story is unique, no two couples are ever the same – some hated each other at first sight and over time a friendship grew which then blossomed into love. Others have known from the minute they laid eyes on each other that they were the ones. By the time we finish talking, I feel like I have known them from the start and not just a few hours.

There are so many little things that happen throughout our lives, why do you think it is important to celebrate them and what is your role in the celebrations? It doesn’t matter how you choose to celebrate the special events or milestones throughout our lives. The important thing is that you take the time to appreciate them and to share them with the ones you love. Sometimes memories are all we are left with, so create as many memories as possible and share them. My role is to encourage them to make it personal and to be unique. To do things their way without compromising. It can be an intimate gathering with the most important people at our side to share a magical moment or it can be a large, grand affair with all the bells and whistles. What matters the most is it must be about you. By making an effort to really know the couple and taking the time to share ideas, we can plan the perfect day together.

On your website you also have a wonderful blog, which includes a few personal stories but most interestingly your ‘Something New’ posts sparked some curiosity. Can you tell us a little more about them and the inspiration for starting that series was? Something New – started a while ago, I was struggling with mental health issues, like many of us do. I needed to find something to motivate me, something that would encourage me to get out and excite me. The very first thing I did was to play a game of pool with my mum at the local pub. Sounds a bit daft and I was rubbish at it, but my mum was great. It made us laugh and made me forget all my worries for a while. It slowly grew from there, started off as small things like tasting new foods, exploring the local tourist attractions (the things us locals tend to avoid) and then it grew into Abseiling down Bamburgh Castle, Cruising Northern Europe, a Narrow Boating Trip and so much more. Recently I attended my first Drumming Circle, I felt like a big kid banging the drums with all my might. I created new friendships at pottery classes in St Abbs where I was lucky enough to meet Robson Green. Alongside Katie and Jacqui we helped him film an episode for Weekend Escapes which will be aired in January.

I found setting a goal of one new thing a month no matter what, kept me motivated and helped my wellbeing. It has made me appreciate the gorgeous countryside in which we live, there are still so many places I have yet to explore. It has widened my taste buds; some foods have been good, some have been far too good. I have met some fascinating people through it, and I think I have encouraged others to try it too. By simply trying something new each month, I have met some amazing people and found hidden talents I didn’t even know I had like crocheting. My next venture is to try Ballet and perhaps tap dancing.

We think Milqueya should try her hand at a bit of Scottish Highland Dancing!

Can you tell us some of your favourite memories from all of the ceremonies you’ve performed? I adore how children are naturally unabashed and take no mind of what is going on around them. During any naming ceremony, you can always rely on a child to chime in and contribute to the ceremony. It makes everyone laugh and creates a story that will be told for years to come. During a naming ceremony a handsome young man scooted his way across the empty dance floor on a wee trike to see me. I think he was hoping to join in the celebration, but he simply said “Hiya” and scooted away again. I love the unpredictable and the unexpected, it is what makes a day memorable.

Has being a celebrant always appealed to you, or was there a moment that nudged you in this direction? I lost my father at a young age – one of the things I always dreaded was getting married and I did what I could to avoid it for long enough. Every wedding I had experienced seemed to be all about the father and the bride. Right from the start – he walks her down the aisle, he gives her away, he makes a speech, he dances with her and he waves her off into her new life. I could not bear the thought of not having my father there. So, when I got married, I broke every rule – I did what I wanted, not what I felt I had to do, I did what I needed to celebrate my marriage. I decided to walk down the aisle alone, no speeches, no sit-down meal, no first dance – nothing happened on that day that would make me aware my father was missing. It was a wonderful day, all the guests commented on how relaxed and personal it was. I know why each celebration must be unique to you, I understand what it means to lose someone so precious to you, I know why life’s special moments need to be celebrated. When I found out what a celebrant is and what they offer, I knew I had found my calling. It sounds cliché I know but it’s true. I want to let everyone know there is no right or wrong way to celebrate, the most important thing, well the only thing that matters is that it is done your way.

While we are huge fans of weddings, your role isn’t just about joining two people in love, can you tell us more about all the services and ceremonies you offer? Alongside wedding ceremonies and vow renewals, I offer naming days which is an alternative to a christening. Naming days are always great fun and a brilliant way to welcome a little someone into the family. I also officiate funerals, where I can offer religious and non-religious services.

The Celtic tradition of handfasting has gained popularity in recent years and is often featured in ceremonies. Can you tell us more about handfasting and how this is performed? Handfasting is the oldest matrimonial ceremony which dates back to Pagan times. It has been uniting clans and families for centuries. I think it is a tradition which will carry on for many years to come. It can be personalised to you, by using different colours or materials or twine (like a lovely selection of tartan). It doesn’t have to be between the couples, it can be used to symbolise the uniting of families and even during naming days. Handfasting can be done in a variety of ways, you can use one, two, three or as many ribbons as you would like. Each ribbon can represent a loved one or a family. I am a sucker for a classic, simple handfasting – using an intertwined ribbon. I ask the couples to clasp hands. Then I wrap the ribbon around their arms and loop it through their thumbs. I say a few magic words; these can be anything chosen by the couple. As the couple slowly pull apart their hands a large “X” appears like magic. It always receives a large cheer and applause.

Do you need to be Scottish to include a handfasting ceremony in your wedding? Not at all, Handfasting is for everyone and it can be used during so many different ceremonies or celebrations, not just weddings. I recently did a handfasting for a couple from Oman, the groom was originally from Liverpool and had met his wife in Oman. They wanted to honour the father of the groom’s Scottish heritage and have a traditional Celtic ceremony. So they chose handfasting which had the family tartan and the colours of the Oman flag.

You have performed ceremonies in many beautiful venues, what has been your favourite so far and why? Netherbyres House is my favourite location, I promise I am not being biased because it is right on my doorstep. Mike and Sarah have done an amazing job transforming the old retirement home into a luxurious wedding destination. I adore their classic 1940’s style with a modern twist and rich colour palette. Walking down the grand staircase makes anyone feel like a movie star even just for one second. They also have a gorgeous garden with a bar and plenty of space for a marquee. It is where I officiated my first wedding and it is a place which will remain dear to my heart.

And finally we’ve saved our best question for last, what is your favourite tartan? Oh, that is a tough question, there are so many to choose from. One day I would love to design my own tartan. If I had to choose it would be the classic Munro Ancient Tartan – I love the contrasting colours of the bright red, green, blue and yellow. It’s bright, eye-catching and I think it would suit anyone.

You can discover more about Milqueya here!

Mo is a celebrant and performs beautifully personal Weddings, Vow Renewals, Baby Naming & Funeral Ceremonies.

We asked Mo some questions to learn more about the work of a celebrant, what makes her ceremonies so unique and her thoughts on the tradition of handfasting.

What does being a celebrant mean to you? It means so much when a couple books me. It means they have put their trust in me to be there for them on one of the biggest milestones in their life - their wedding day!

Are all celebrants the same? Not at all - they are all different! We may follow a similar path for the end result of legally marrying our couples but our personalities and natures are all very different. Our ceremony wording will vary as well as we will all have different delivery styles. Some couples prefer to have a male Celebrant whereas others prefer to have a female officiating for them. A Couple will be drawn to a Celebrant for many reasons and there are so many now to choose from it is sometimes hard for them to make a decision.

And why do people choose a Humanist ceremony? A Humanist ceremony is personalised to suit the couple and is non-religious. When planning their wedding they get to choose everything else for their special day and this way they can also choose the words that are read and said during their ceremony. They can also inject their personalities and humour into as well - it doesn't have to be formal and most of my wedding couples request that theirs be light-hearted and relaxed.

Why do you think Humanism is becoming more popular? Humanist ceremonies are more popular for several reasons - many couples don't attend church or they are not members of a church, so the non-religious aspect of humanism works well for them. Another factor is that the couple can be married wherever they want in Scotland whether that be up the top of a mountain or at the bottom! What matters to them is that they celebrate their marriage how they would like it to be. They also meet and get to know their celebrant before their special day making them feel more comfortable on a day that can be quite nerve-wracking for some.

What would a typical ceremony you deliver look like for a wedding? No ceremony is the same but the structure can be - It begins with the Welcome to guests and the couple; Words on Humanism and why they decided to have a humanist ceremony; the Meaning of Marriage and what it means to the couple and why they are getting married; their Love Story or Couples Journey is told - which is so lovely to do and I really enjoy hearing about the proposals too; and then moving into the Legal aspect with Vows and Exchange of Rings.

How can you personalise a ceremony to suit the couple's needs? By telling their story - their love story or journey as a couple. Getting to know the couple and understanding what matters to them is my aim when I meet with them. Some couples still prefer to have some traditional aspects in their ceremony; some request short and sweet; some of them will also want to involve family and friends in their ceremony and I can advise them on what will work for them. Ultimately it is what the couple want their ceremony to be like.

Why do you think handfasting ceremonies are so popular? It is such an intimate gesture - holding hands with your loved one and reading your wedding promises to each other - it is such a special moment. Using family tartans is uniting two families and is a wonderful keepsake for the wedding couple to display after their wedding and is a reminder too of the promises they have made.

Of the many ceremonies you have conducted as a celebrant, can you think of one that stands out as especially memorable? There is not ONE ceremony but there will be ONE or even MANY aspects from a ceremony that I will remember about each ceremony I have conducted. I have so many memorable moments and I have been marrying couples since 2014 so it is a lot of lovely memories I hold.

Any good stories or other things you would like to add - No stories but a wee bit of advice - Choose a Celebrant that will tell your story and focus on you as a couple it really is Your Day Your Way when you book with me. You can check their reviews and also their Social Media pages to see how they engage with their couples as well as venues and suppliers. It is the best job!

You can discover more about Mo and her unique ceremonies here

Yvonne has answered our questions about being a celebrant. Yvonne has performed some truly beautiful services and her passion for her work has taken her to some really unique places in the world. Discover more about Yvonne.

What does being a celebrant mean to you? I am able to offer couples a real choice, to represent their values and beliefs, their style and their dreams for a ceremony. With my bilingual English and German ceremonies I am able to be more inclusive for guests, so everyone feels special, and is included. It is a major milestone in the life of the individual and the couple, and needs to be given all the attention, support, and encouragement needed to ensure it is authentic, original and unique.

Do all celebrants offer the same services? “Same” is not a word I would use but all celebrants do offer their own unique set of skills, personality, qualities and it is important for couples to find a Celebrant that really “fits” and “chimes” with them, as this person will be making a journey with them both, and it needs to be a person they can trust, rely on, feel understood and heard by and of course someone with the right attitude, style, delivery, understanding and professionalism in terms of experience, accessibility, accountability and responsibility for the creative and practical elements of the ceremony.

And why do people choose a Humanist service over a Religious ceremony? They are themselves Humanist or have a non religious believe system – Humanists can perform a range of ceremonies but cannot include any acts of worship (if they are being true to their own belief system) and so their ceremonies are very much based on the couple, their lifestyle and are completely secular.

Why do you think Humanism is becoming more popular? I am not sure it is becoming more “popular” because it has always attracted those who do not hold with worship or a determined de facto belief or faith system or ideology, as their principles are firmly based on human beings being sentient and able to make good and compassionate choices in their lives, for themselves, and others.

What does your 'normal' ceremony look like? I personally perform many outdoor weddings in beautiful locations, small intimate weddings in wonderful surroundings, manor houses, barns, mountain huts, alpine meadows and no service is “typical” except in that it is always focused on what the couple want, their values, story, history, dreams for the future, and what marriage means to them. It may include rituals, it may not. It may include a ring exchange, it might not. It may include local traditions, or not. There is no typical ceremony – but there is structure, meaning, and relevance, as well as appropriate emotional content, laughter, tears, and a deep and abiding sense of this being a totally unique experience for the couple and all who are participating. There is a sense too that there is no longer a “one size fits all” or “templated” ceremony – each couple working with me will have the ceremony that is not only all about them, but will have the benefit of my advice, expertise, experience, and knowledge of the country, location and my contacts with vendors and suppliers throughout the German speaking parts of Europe, and in fact beyond, for my international couples

How can you make a ceremony more personal to suit the couple's needs? I think you may have a good impression having read so far, that I am all about personalisation, individual taste, ideas, style and format, backed by my own experience of over 450 ceremonies over the last 12 years. Styles change, couples want to have more say and participation in their wedding day and although I am only responsible for their Ceremony, it really is the heart of their Wedding Day. Without that, it is simply a lovely big party!

So personalisation means really getting to know my couple, their background, how they met, what life was life before they met, what challenges or hurdles they have overcome, what memories they have made, who is supporting them in their ceremony, if they are eloping, would they like me to create space for those who are not with them, and perhaps read messages from parents, siblings, friends, etc. There might be a way to include their heritage, blend faith and tradition, and I really do encourage all my couples to really consider every element, not simply their own story, but what being in this magical place at this moment really does mean for them now, and in the future.

There are rituals which can be adapted and personalised:

• We can include friends and family in almost any part of the ceremony

• We can hold space for loved ones who are either not with us or who have passed

• We can honour those who birthed us, who supported and nurtured us with particular surprises of flowers or gifts, and personalised messages

• We can in fact do more because there is nothing we cannot do or say – except pronounce the couple using the Civil Contracting and Declaratory Words that a Registrar would use, or act in any way that would be unethical.

We love the tradition of Handfasting, why do you think this tradition has become so popular? A handfasting is a way of creating connection, unity and also being able to honour the way in which marriages were made hundreds of years ago. A Handfasting is in fact an ancient Engagement where the couples wrists would be tied with cords or ribbons, and they would live as man and wife for a year and a day. They would then return after this time, to be either “no fault separated” and say they wished to part, or they would say yes, we want to remain together, and a marriage celebration would take place, with a local priest or elder.

For me, a Handfasting allows the couple to perhaps not worry about exchanging rings again, if they have already done this at a Registry office or Town Hall. They can also decide on the type of cords they want to use, and the colours of any cord or ribbons. The cord colours have meaning, which represent the qualities and behaviours the couple wish to either include in their marriage, demonstrate to their partner, and which aligns with their beliefs on the meaning of marriage, partnership and commitment. They could also simply choose cord colours that are in line with their wedding theme or wedding style and colour choices. The cords can also include heritage material, and perhaps because this is know as a Celtic tradition, can also include clan tartan if appropriate and relevant.

There are specially trained Celebrants who perform Hand Fasting, who include ancient wording, include the four Elements of Earth, Sea, Sky and Air, and call upon these during the ceremony. I am not trained in this way, and therefore I would call my ceremonies a Hand Tying and explain to my couples why so they can be aware of the difference and if they wish a Hand Fasting, then I would advise them to choose a more appropriately trained Celebrant.

Of the many ceremonies you have performed in your role as a celebrant, can you think of one that stands out as especially memorable? I do recall one which was held on a volcanic island off the coast of Sicily. A bilingual ceremony for a Swiss couple, who had fallen in love with the island during a previous holiday. The ceremony space was set up for 50 guests. There was beautiful Papyrus Moon arch, and we were outside, overlooking the ocean. The couple asked me to write a Fire and Water Ritual and include their parents and step parents in the ceremony. It was a stunningly beautiful location, wild mountains, wild rocky cliffs, and the most beautiful shades of blue and green sea.

Any good stories or memorable moments you would like to add? I love including pets or children in my ceremonies – even when they say never work with animals or children. I think family is important and so it the ability to celebrate milestones like marriage, in the way that feels authentic and personal. Why have the same as everyone else? Why be restricted in terms of format, content, style or location? I really love the freedom that I can give my couples, to make their own choices, with no judgement or justification needed.

You can discover more about Yvonne and her ceremonies here

When did you decide that you wanted to be a celebrant and what was your inspiration?My first introduction to Humanism was when I attended the weddings of three close friends. Each ceremony felt so personal, unique, and appropriate to the individual couples. At each there was lots of smiles and laughter – they were all such happy occasions. I remember thinking then, what a wonderful job that would be to do... By chance I met a fabulous Humanist Society Scotland celebrant called Hazel. She thought I would be perfectly suited to the role, and the rest, as they say, is history. I've been a celebrant for over two years now and am registered to solemnise marriages and register civil partnerships, as well as conduct naming and welcoming ceremonies.

How do you make each ceremony special and unique for each couple? I always tell my couples that the ceremony is ‘their’ ceremony – it’s very much a team effort. About three months before their big day, I meet up with the couple and we set aside about two hours. It’s very much a meeting of two halves. I spend a lot of time asking them about their relationship, their reasons for wanting to get married and what their hopes and wishes are for the future.
I also spend time guiding them through all the many options for the ceremony e.g. do they want friends or family members to read something, do they want to write personal vows for each other, do they want to incorporate any symbolic gestures like handfasting. Ultimately though, the couple make all the final decisions. It’s their day and I’m just privileged to write and conduct it for them.

Before being a celebrant you worked in HR for over 25 years, what skills and knowledge can you use from that role to enhance being a celebrant? Yes, I left the corporate world a few years ago now but I think my career in Human Resources made me a rounded and empathic person. It developed personal attributes that really lend themselves to the role of a celebrant. I’m a confident, compassionate and empathetic communicator. I really enjoy meeting people and getting to know them, with an ability to quickly put people at ease. I think these are fantastic transferable skills for anybody working as a celebrant.

Why do people choose a humanist ceremony? When I meet with my couples, I ask them this very question. I like to incorporate it into the introduction to the wedding ceremony and explain to wedding guests, ‘why’ the two people they have come to celebrate chose this kind of ceremony. Although Humanism is a non-religious way of life, people decide to have a humanist wedding ceremony for lots of other different reasons, but some of the things I often hear include:

• Wanting a ceremony that is about them and their love for one another
• The ability to make the ceremony truly personal and unique, just like the couple themselves
• Feeling that a humanist ceremony will better capture the vibe and atmosphere they want to create on their special day

While we know there are many great aspects of your role, what is your favourite part of being a celebrant? You’re right, there are many great aspects. But I think my absolute favourite part is when I meet with my couples to start planning their ceremony. When the meeting comes to an end, I often hear words like, “Ooooh, it’s exciting – it feels so real now”. When planning a wedding, couples often get bogged down with admin and many of the small but important details e.g. invites and table decorations. Their meeting with me grounds them and reminds them what all the fuss and paraphernalia is about. Although it’s a bit nerve wracking sending version one of their ceremony to them, I love the messages I get back. They always say how much they loved reading it together and the excitement for the big day really starts to build. Also, I’ll never get tired to saying, “It is my absolute pleasure to declare that you are married!”

What preparation is required before performing any ceremony or service? Well in the weeks leading up to the wedding day, I’m in regular correspondence with the couple, ensuring they’ve completed their legal paperwork, fine tuning the ceremony script, checking their music choices, personal vows and readings (if they’re having them) etc. But we eventually get to the stage where the ceremony script is perfect and final. This is uploaded to Humanist Society Scotland’s central system, so that, in the event of an emergency, and I am unable to conduct the couple’s ceremony for whatever reason, it is accessible by another celebrant. On the day of the ceremony, I always arrive at the venue at least an hour before. It's important I get the marriage schedule, the all-important legal document that the couple, their two witnesses and I sign at the end of the ceremony. If the couple are including any symbolic gestures e.g. handfasting, drinking from the quaich etc, I make sure that everything is set up. I also introduce myself to the venue coordinator and other suppliers like the photographer or videographer, and explain the structure and flow of the ceremony, and an estimate of timings. But I also meet with the couple themselves, separately, and just try and help them relax and enjoy the day. The immediate build up to the ceremony can be a bit nerve-wracking but I remind them both they will be soon to be standing with their best friend.

Do you offer Handfasting ceremonies and is it a popular choice for couples? The oldest and most traditional of symbolic gestures is the exchanging of wedding rings, which the vast majority of couples do. But handfasting is another gesture couples might choose to incorporate into their wedding ceremony. It is fairly popular and there’s a few ways it can be done. Handfasting is an ancient Celtic marriage ritual. Back then, when notaries or others authorised to perform the legalities, such as the clergy, weren’t always readily available locally, couples could have their hands lightly bound in cloth or tartan. A knot would be formed using the cloth, which then symbolised the couple being joined – they ‘tied the knot’!

What are the benefits for working for Humanist Society Scotland? I chose to train with Humanist Society Scotland and conduct wedding and civil partnerships on their behalf, because I just love what the Society stands for. The Society is a charity and is built on respect for human rights and individual autonomy. It does this by campaigning, educating, and providing high quality ceremonies, including funeral, and naming ceremonies, as well as wedding and civil partnership ceremonies. The Society is funded entirely by membership fees and donations.

Any good stories or other things you would like to add? We are the longest standing and largest network of registered celebrants across Scotland - over 140 of us - who have all undertaken a rigorous programme of training, and our professional development continues throughout our professional career with Humanist Society Scotland. We are regularly reviewed too, to ensure our ceremonies are delivered to their very high standards. The Society guarantees celebrant cover on occasions such as in the event of an emergency, so if I am unable to conduct a couple’s ceremony for whatever reason, even at very short notice, my couples can rest easy knowing they are covered. However rare, it’s added peace of mind for them. It’s the Society’s unique ‘promise’. I’ve never needed cover myself yet, but I have covered for colleagues. It’s a hugely supportive network.

And finally we’ve saved our best question for last, what is your favourite tartan? Well, my mum was from Lancashire and my dad was a Dubliner, so there’s no Tuohy Tartan but I love a bit of colour – I love the Bruce of Kinnaird Ancient.

If you would like to start looking for your Humanist Society Scotland wedding celebrant, visit this section of our website, we’d love to hear from you.
Find Your Celebrant – Humanist Society Scotland Portal (humanism.scot)

What does being a celebrant mean to you?

The seeds of my journey to become a celebrant were planted many years ago while I was a wedding florist. Each ceremony I witnessed and the variety of celebrants I met left a significant impression on me as I marvelled at the intimacy and space shared between the couples getting married. These initial experiences have remained deeply ingrained within me, profoundly shaping my approach to working with couples as a celebrant. I hold a steadfast belief in the power of love, and I view weddings as a beautiful opportunity for individuals to express the depths of their hearts and the love they wish to share with their partners.

And why do people choose a Humanist service?

A humanist wedding is a personalised, non-religious ceremony presided over by a humanist celebrant. All celebrants align with the beliefs and values of the couple, crafting meaningful ceremonies tailored to their preferences. In Scotland, celebrants vary widely, ranging from Civil to Agnostic, and some are even ordained within spiritual traditions, yet all share the common goal of crafting unique ceremonies. As a member of the Scottish Pagan Federation, I am authorised to conduct legal ceremonies in Scotland, a deeply cherished responsibility. Couples who choose me as their celebrant may follow a specific spiritual path or have an affinity for nature's beauty, making each ceremony a distinct and memorable occasion and, dare I say, a little magical.

Why do you think Humanism is becoming more popular?

Humanism is said to meet the widespread demand for a source of meaning and purpose to stand as an alternative to dogmatic religion. Therefore, there is an alternative for those who seek a wedding ceremony that is not through the conventional methods of a church. With that said, I deeply honour the sanctity of marriage and acknowledge the profound bond between couples and their faith in God. The world now recognises the diversity of an individual’s path through life and, therefore, has created an opportunity for wedding ceremonies to be catered in a way that aligns with the values and beliefs of a couple. A celebrant is responsible for achieving this respectfully as they weave local traditions and individual views on marriage into each ceremony.

What would a typical service you perform look like or, are they all quite unique?

Every service is unique to a certain degree, as every couple has a love story to be told. This is always my favourite part of the ceremony, as it recounts the couple’s experiences and feelings towards each other as they forge an unbreakable bond through life. The ceremony usually includes the traditional marriage rituals, such as exchanging rings and sharing vows and promises. In Scotland, we love a wee toast, so there can often be a quaich filled with the finest of whiskey for the couple to drink from, representing the trust in one another to share the lover's cup and symbolising two becoming one.

I tend to work with couples who choose to elope, which has taken me to the most majestic mountains in Scotland and breathtaking shores, where we have incorporated the elements into our ceremony. From finding the most perfect pebble in a loch to use as an oathing stone, where the couple will hold the stone as they say their vows, to moments when we are joined by a roaming stag on top of a mountain who wishes nothing more than to bear witness to the ceremony.

How can you personalise a ceremony to suit the couple's needs?

In addition to incorporating the couple's beliefs and practices into their ceremony through rituals such as lighting candles or creating a sacred circle with fresh posies of flowers, I’m fortunate to work with a dear friend who specialises in making hand-made wooden quaiches for the couple. We even put their names and the dates of their weddings on them.

Let’s not forget about tartan. Recently, I worked with a couple who had been together since they were 13. When the childhood sweethearts met, he wore a kilt, instantly captivating his future bride. Many years later, a piece of that tartan was wrapped around the bride's bouquet on their wedding day, symbolising their unwavering commitment to one another and the enduring test of time.

Why do you think handfasting ceremonies are so popular?

Handfasting is the symbolic binding of the hands. In age-old times, this ritual established you as a couple within your community and clan as partners, especially when you were awaiting approval to be married through the church. The family’s clan tartan was often used to signify the binding.

Today, the ritual evokes a similar sentiment for couples, as it physically represents being bound together. To me, a handfasting ceremony is more than binding two hands; it is the joining of two hearts, the intertwining of two lives, and the interlacing of two souls.

Wedding guests can also enjoy it and even participate in a handfasting.

I like to use two pieces of tartan for my handfasting ceremonies, representing the joining of the family names. As the knot is tied, I always wish for the couple's days to be filled with love and endless joy.

Are there any other Scottish traditions you like to include?

Have you heard about the pinning of the tartan? It is an old Scottish wedding custom that occurs after the couple has just been married.

For instance, to welcome the Bride into the Groom’s clan, any member of the Groom’s family can present the Bride with a piece of Clan tartan, such as a rosette or a sash. The tartan is fastened to the bride's dress with a clan badge or any other type of brooch or pin, symbolically accepting her into the Groom’s clan.

Any good stories you would like to add?

When we think about tartan, we often think about the colours it represents. My favourite tartan is The Isle of Skye tartan, which is made up of greens, browns and purples to represent the beautiful scenery and landscapes of the island. Just gazing upon it instantly transports me to the ethereal heather fields on a grey stormy day. But something that may be overlooked is the weight of a tartan ribbon. As I place the tartan over the couple's hands, the weight of the wool can provide a sense of grounding to the ceremony, proving further the physical representation and magnitude of the commitment they are making to one another. It’s always a special moment for me to witness and one that I strive to provide to all my couples who choose a handfasting ceremony with tartan.

Find Fiona on the Celebrant Directory here and Instagram here. Photo credits: Raini Rowell and Grace Hunter

What does being a celebrant mean to you?

Being a Celebrant is dear to my heart. I am entrusted by couples and families to honour their important moments in life. Whether it’s a wedding, vow renewal or naming day, it is a privilege to create meaningful, personalised ceremonies that reflect their unique love stories and their journey.

I LOVE IT!

And why do people choose a Humanist service?

It is a way to have a meaningful, inclusive and personal celebration. Couples want and deserve choice. This is completely bespoke to them. I really get to know them on a deep level and from this, I create something unforgettable.

Why do you think Humanism is becoming more popular?

By choosing a celebrant, couples have freedom and flexibility to make their ceremonies into unforgettable memories. Couples have the right to choose the place and time they wish to get married, the feel they want to create. They are not dictated to. I write about the spark between two people, about their love and soul. There is nothing generic about it, it compliments the day like no other ceremony.

What would a typical service you perform look like or, are they all quite unique?

Absolutely unique! I focus on them, their life and love for one another. Each person's story is so different, not one ceremony would fit everyone.

How can you personalise a ceremony to suit the couple's needs?

Personalised ceremonies are created by understanding the couples' preferences, values and their relationship dynamic. They can choose to have customised vows that reflect their feelings, promises and be in their words. The couples' voice is very important. Symbolic rituals can be incorporated to reflect any cultural, religious or personal traditions. Poems, readings and music can be woven in to add depth to the ceremony. They can involve loved ones in this. It is about finding out what the couple loves and building from there.

Why do you think handfasting ceremonies are so popular?

Handfasting has gained popularity for a few reasons. It is a visual representation of commitment and love, which can be a keepsake. It has historical and cultural significance including Celtic, Norse and pagan traditions. Many people are drawn to this.

Are there any other Scottish traditions you like to include?

There are so many to choose from. The Quaich is a symbolic gesture which sees the couple drinking from the Quaich. Bagpipe processions are iconic and are a great part of Scottish culture. Tartan elements visually in the wedding. Grooms wearing a kilt, sashes and details of tartan throughout. Handfasting can also be performed with tartan ribbons, it is beautiful to see. I also adore blessing of rings. It gives a chance for their special people to offer blessings and well wishes for the couple to carry forward together.

Any good stories you would like to add?

Celebrant ceremonies are beautiful, deeply personal and one of a kind. I create meaningful ceremonies, delivered in an authentic way which make them truly, utterly unforgettable.

Find Dannielle on Facebook here, and Instagram here!

What does being a celebrant mean to you?

I see my role as a Celebrant as a facilitator, to help people express themselves, their love and their life in a way which is most meaningful to them. In weddings, as with all ceremonies, people choose the elements and expressions that are important to them, and along with the necessary legal obligations, these are woven together like an individual tapestry to create a tailored and distinctly personal celebration of love and joining together of two people in marriage.

And why do people choose a Humanist service?

People choose a Humanist ceremony because it is non-religious, bespoke, personal and unique to them. It gives you the chance to be as traditional, intimate, creative, flamboyant, serious or silly as you want! Your day, your way.

Why do you think Humanism is becoming more popular?

Many people have moved away from organised religion to adopt a more Humanist stance. Compassion, social justice, belief in democracy, open government and human rights, and supporting action on world poverty and the environment are common human concerns and many people now want to engage in these endeavours without recourse to religion.

What would a typical service you perform look like or, are they all quite unique?

They really are all quite unique, there is no typical!

How can you personalise a ceremony to suit the couple's needs?

The legalities are that they both have to make a declaration of accepting each other in marriage. I have to pronounce them as such and we all, along with two witnesses, have to sign the marriage schedule. The rest of their promises, vows, declarations and the expression in the ceremony is composed by them with my help. Documents with wording and music examples, symbolic gestures and poetry and readings are provided to aid this process. We have a wealth of resource material for the couple to choose the content of their ceremony. And so the ceremony is a weaving of the telling of their story and journey to their wedding day, their choices of readings, symbolic gestures, music and personal vows, and the legal obligations. When the couple have made their ceremony choices I send a complete ceremony for them to look over and then we will just be editing and tweaking to get it exactly as they want it to be!

Why do you think handfasting ceremonies are so popular?

Handfasting is an ancient Celtic ritual that symbolises 'tying the knot'. Rituals have always been important to human beings to help us connect, mark significant moments and provide structure. It may or may not be relevant that handfasting was mentioned in the 1980 Jim Morrison biography "No One Here Gets Out Alive" and again in the 1991 film The Doors, where a version of the real 1970 handfasting ceremony of Morrison and Patricia Kennealy was depicted, and handfasting has featured in Braveheart, Game of Thrones and Outlander!

Are there any other Scottish traditions you like to include?

I love the drinking from the quaich, or the loving cup, and I love these words to accompany that:

"Name and Name will now drink from the Quaich, the traditional two-handled Scottish drinking cup, there are many stories within its history, the name holds meaning of meeting and sharing and understanding. The full quaich is a symbol of the cup of life. Both the bride and the groom/bride and bride/groom and groom drink from the same cup, symbolizing their commitment to share all that the future may bring. All the sweetness life’s cup may hold for you should only be sweeter because you drink it together; whatever bitterness it may contain should be less bitter because you share it together.

Name and Name, may the cup of your lives together forever be full and overflowing. In your love and in your lives may you make beautiful music together that resonates beyond the bond and commitment that you have made today to touch the lives of many others with love.

Drink to me only with thine eyes,

And I will pledge with mine;

Or leave a kiss within the cup,

And I’ll ask not for wine.

The thirst that from the soul doth rise,

Doth crave a drink divine:

But might I of Jove’s nectar sup,

I would not change for thine."

Any good stories you would like to add?

Well, I've been a Humanist Society Scotland Celebrant for 23 years, so there are many! I absolutely love doing weddings in Glencoe, one of my favourite places on the planet. Last autumn I did a wedding at The Kingshouse. It was outside on a dry though blustery and chill day and it was in German and English, the bride and the guests quite literally jumped when a fighter jet doing practice through the glen flew over with an almighty roar right in the middle of the vows. Most recently I had a wedding on the Friday for Buck (74) and Ann (76). Ann's first marriage. They met at their Curling Club and the cake was a fabulous Curling Rink with little models of them. On the Saturday I married a friend's daughter at West On The Green in Glasgow. The ceremony was so full of laughter and joy. The bride, renowned for her spectacular shoes, didn't let us down and some of their pictures were taken under the iconic neon Barrowlands sign!

If you would like to start looking for your Humanist Society Scotland wedding celebrant, visit this section of our website, we’d love to hear from you. Find Your Celebrant – Humanist Society Scotland Portal (humanism.scot)

Find Mandy on Instagram and Facebook.

I think that my journey to becoming a celebrant is similar to many of my colleagues. It all started with a funeral ceremony for my mother which, although well delivered, felt quite impersonal and didn’t really capture her life or who she had been in person, so the feeling was quite disappointing.

So I decided that it felt more fitting to have a humanist ceremony for my father. The celebrant involved me in every stage of ceremony writing and the end result was an inclusive, warm and personal tribute to my dad - my husband played his favourite music on guitar and our children did a reading. It was uplifting and although a sad occasion felt celebratory of a long life.

The humanist was a retired teacher.... and at the time I was a teacher. I realised I had a lot of transferable skills and felt like it was time for a change. I loved being a teacher but I have to say that over the past seven years I have never done anything which is so rewarding. It feels so special to be present at such significant rituals in people’s lives, whether it is saying farewell, celebrating love or welcoming a new addition to a family.

As a celebrant, every day of my work, every couple or family I meet, every experience is different. Over and over the refrain is the same, people are looking for an occasion, a ceremony which is personal to them and celebrates their lives, love and family - and we can do that as humanist celebrants.

I looked at the various organisations through which I could do my training and decided that the Humanist Society was the one for me - it not only supports celebrants and families but advocates for such important causes - which are wide ranging and it feels right to be part of this.

I feel that Humanist ceremonies are becoming a very accepted way to approach an important life event, working with a celebrant who will put you and your family at the very heart of the ceremony. Every ceremony is unique, there is no limit on the amount of time I spend with families or couples. I’m good at listening - an important part of my role as a celebrant - and adaptable. Sometimes wedding couples will have ideas which I haven’t come across before and we look at how to absorb these into their ceremony... we are all so different, so of course every ceremony will be bespoke!

I have conducted a lot of wedding ceremonies now, legal and non- legal, and large gatherings down to micro celebrations and elopements, so I can also offer my advice and support based on experience. I can also help suggest suppliers who I know might best suit a particular couple or occasion - especially if they are starting from scratch and for example live abroad.

I love hearing about new and interesting symbolic gestures at ceremonies and I’m about to do my first ever ‘jumping the broom’ which should be fun and more of a highland tradition.

I think handfasting is popular for several reasons, it not only incorporates a Scottish tradition but helps seal the symbolic promises and vows which couples will make to each other. Also it can be fun for couples to keep the tradition but then create their own hand fasts based on them and their interests.... I have done a handfasting over a pony’s lead rope and a land rover tow rope, Harry Potter house colours, football scarves and handmade ties which are a story of a couple’s childhood made by their mothers.... fantastic!

I always say to my couples that creating and writing their ceremony should be a fun, enjoyable and exciting experience - and it usually is!

I have so many lovely memories of individual moments at weddings which shine.... when the mother of the groom sang her own fun sea shanty to her son and his bride, when the groom piped his bride down the aisle, when two brides sang at their own ceremony, when a couple had a wine box and guests all put blessings and letters into the box for them, which will be sealed for the next 10 years - all quite magical.

My own celebrant bucket list - I was a history teacher previously - is to marry folk in more castles... I love a good old historical venue!

To anyone out there thinking of either becoming a celebrant - it’s the best job in the world and to couples thinking about having a humanist ceremony - do it, you’ll have a ceremony you will remember forever.

If you would like to start looking for your Humanist Society Scotland wedding celebrant, visit this section of our website, we’d love to hear from you. Find Your Celebrant – Humanist Society Scotland Portal (humanism.scot)

Find Vivienne on Humanism.scot, her website, Facebook and Instagram.

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