It’s been a wild and wonderful wedding season with ceremonies up mountains, in historic castles, on beaches and by riversides, in boutique hotels, cosy homes and magical family gardens. Some have been grand and elegant, laugh-while-you-weep-funny, some quietly romantic, some gentle and loving. We’ve heard music, sang songs, sipped toasts, blessed rings and read poetry. We’ve shared stories, mixed petals, tied ribbons, placed stones and lit candles. Every ceremony has sung of the personalities, beliefs and wishes of those involved.
As I coorie in towards the winter months, I feel so grateful to be invited to help shape these moments, to be trusted to hold space in this way, and to be able to enjoy time with wonderful families. Now that the season is slowing, I’m looking forward to sharing, with the kind permission of the couples involved, some of the details of this year’s ceremonies. Starting with Laura and Phil’s sweet gem of a May wedding …
When I was on my way home the other night, I saw an elderly couple walking along eating ice creams together. It was such a small thing but it made me realise how I wanted that for us both – and not just because I wanted ice cream! You are the one I want to share these lovely small moments with because with you they feel like big moments in which we can share.
Laura and Phil
Laura and Phil’s ceremony in the heart of Leith was romantic, funny, and thoughtful. Their wish was for a “no fuss, simple, romantic” ceremony with a close circle of their friends and family that spoke of their love and togetherness.
The ceremony took place in a beautifully decorated room at the No11 Brunswick Hotel close to where they live. We shared the story of how these two unassuming people had been enjoying each other’s company so much that they fell into life together. We heard how they complement each other brilliantly and share the same outlook on life, both valuing the small, everyday things that bring them such joy.
Two of their dearest friends read a poem and played gorgeous music. We were all held by the simple intimacy and quiet authenticity of Phil and Laura’s ceremony – it was beautiful.
There wasn’t a dry eye in the gathering as Laura and Phil exchanged personal vows then gifted each other a ring.
They made their Marriage Vows to each other with a traditional Handfasting with two woven cords that held important symbolism for them both. The purple cord representing the Highlands where Laura grew up and a special place for them both. The teal cord presenting their love of holidaying by the sea.
As they tied their Eternity Knot, it was my pleasure to declare Phil and Laura married to the delighted cheers and happy tears of their family and friends.
So much love and congratulations to you both, Laura and Phil. Thank you so much for trusting me to be your celebrant and for sharing these gorgeous details of your day with us all. May you have many wonderful adventures in the years to come with all the beautiful walks, tea and cake, and happiness you could wish for.
Thank you to Solen Collet Photography for sharing these lovely photos.