It’s been such a busy Summer! Looking back, Esther and John’s fabulous Life Commitment Celebration, on 31st August at their gorgeous home overlooking the Firth of Forth, was definitely a highlight. A uniquely special day entirely reflective of these two marvellous and – by their own admission – quirky souls.

Rather than opt for a traditional Wedding Ceremony, John and Esther chose to celebrate their existing relationship and the heart-fulfilling fact that they discovered their love for one another at a time in life when they least expected it. In their words, they opted for an ‘Uncivil Partnership’, or a Life Commitment Ceremony.

The ceremony was brimming with personal touches including an awesome rendition of Nina Simone’s ‘Feeling Good’ by a close friend, and one of the most make-you-laugh-while-you-weep sharing of loving words I’ve had the privilege of witnessing (there was not a dry eye in the house).

A first for me was being able to say during the Handfasting, “and you have chosen to replace your Handfasting ribbons with a rope…” The fishing rope being an important symbol of their shared love and connection with the sea.

And the Sharing of the Quaich was personalised to include two beautiful brass pots of great emotional value to Esther.