No question is a silly question!
Planning a wedding comes with plenty of questions - big ones, we ones and sometimes ones you think you should already know the answer to. Chances are, I've been asked it before – so have a look through some of the questions couples ask me the most.
Can you legally marry us?
100% yes. I'm part of Independent Humanist Ceremonies, and I'm fully authorised by the Registrar General for Scotland to conduct legally binding marriage and civil partnerships anywhere in Scotland. I can also perform ceremonies abroad, but we would still need to do the legal stuff back in Scotland which can done before or after the main event.
What is a Humanist Ceremony?
A Humanist Ceremony is a non-religious ceremony that's centred around you - your story, your relationship and the people and values that matter to you. There is no set script or one size fits all. As celebrant I'll get to know you both and write a unique script that feels like you.
My partner is religious and I’m not, can we still have a Humanist ceremony?
Absolutely yes! Humanist Ceremonies are for everyone.You don't need to be a Humanist - just happy to have a non-religious ceremony that reflects the two of you, your relationship and your values.
What paperwork do we need to fill in?
If you want to legally marry in Scotland, there's some strict guidelines you need to follow. In a nutshell, it's pretty simple - you both need to fill in M10 forms and submit these to the local authority area where you are going to get married. The earliest you can submit these is 3 months before your wedding day, and the very (very) latest is 29 days before - but leaving it that late isn't the best idea. If you are a non-uk national, there's also some additional forms you need to fill-in.
Can we include anything in our ceremony?
Of course you can! The more unique the better and if you have any quirky ideas, lets be having them! "Flowerdogs", your cat as a ring bearer...got a lama? You can have a sing along, breakdance or body pop down (or up) the aisle...it's your day, your way.
Can we write our own vows?
100% - There's only a few things that we must include so it's all legally binding - but a humanist ceremony is all about being personal and flexible so you can have the perfect big day.
What happens if one of us gets emotional?
Absolutely nothing to worry about! It's your wedding day - if there's ever a day you're allowed to get a wee bit mosh, this is it. We'll take a moment, have a breath, laugh if we need to, and carry on when your ready. There's no rush, no pressure and I've usually got the tissues on standby.
Can we include a religious blessing in our ceremony?
YES! Your ceremony itself is non-religious, but I completely respect that faith and tradition can be important to you, your family or the people you love. If you would like a religeous blessing or reading. We can chat over how best we can include it in a way that feels right for everyone
What's your style and approach?
Each wedding I do is different but I'm generally laid back, a little less formal and always up for a good laugh. Despite being pretty accomplished at swearing in everyday life, my ceremonies are normally completely expletive-free and child friendly. Above all, my job is to make you feel supported, relaxed and completely stress free so you can soak up the good vibes and enjoy every second.