When I first met with Hollie and Shaz, they told me that they would like a ceremony that was “simple, beautiful, relaxed, and nothing too ‘lovey-dovey.” Hollie even admitted that she had been googling ‘non-gushy weddings’ just before our meeting. Importantly, they wanted their ceremony to be inclusive and respectful of the shared and varied beliefs among their close friends and family.

Their Marriage ceremony in the candlelit ballroom at the Ghillie Dhu was a celebration of their many years together and their great friendship. It was about affirming what they already have and making a lifelong commitment to be with each other.  

Their ceremony was romantic, elegant, beautiful and funny. I shared some sweet, joyful (not-too-gushy) words about how Hollie and Shaz first fell into life and love together, including some of the entertaining and poignant secret thoughts Shaz and Hollie had shared with me when I asked about their love and connection. Hollie’s brother and a close friend gave gorgeous readings of Union by Robert Fulghum and song lyrics by Bob Marley.

The Arta String Quartet gave a soaring rendition of Love is like a red red rose by Rabbie Burns – Hollie’s dad’s favourite song. A chance for us all to pause and enjoy the moment before their vows and, for those who wished to, to make a prayer, blessing or well-wishing thought for Hollie and Shaz.

Shaz and Hollie exchanged rings and made their Marriage Vows to each other and it was my honour to declare them legally married to the cheers of their family and friends.

After the ceremony, some of Shaz and Hollie’s friends came up to me to say it was the loveliest ceremony they had ever experienced. I couldn’t agree more … it really was magical.

So much love to you both, Hollie and Shaz. I’m so happy for you that, after so many rescheduled dates, you were finally able to go ahead with your beautiful celebration. Thank you for inviting me to be your celebrant and for sharing these gorgeous details of your day. It’s been my absolute pleasure getting to know you both. Congratulations!

Thank you to Anna Urban for the stunning photos.