Learning the ropes: Rituals in a celebrant-led ceremony

We posed celebrant Jen Whitworth the following question...

We've heard about all of the different rituals we can have during a celebrant-led ceremony from hand-fasting to candle-lighting, but what's the difference and how do we know which is right for us?

Jen says: During a Celebrant led ceremony, anything is possible – there are no limits to what rituals (or elements as they are sometimes referred to) you can include, as long as they're within the current law of the land. It’s a perfect opportunity to really make your ceremony reflect your personality.

Hand-fasting and unity candles are both gorgeous, traditional elements and can involve family and friends, plus you can still use them in a modern way. For example, you don’t have to use ribbons for hand-fasting, perhaps you're both keen rock climbers and would prefer to incorporate a fancy-coloured climbing rope and some shiny carabineers with personal charms that mean something to you both.

As more and more families are coming together and blending as one, sand ceremonies are becoming very popular. A beautiful glass vessel is filled with different layers of coloured sand, each representing a person and the creation of one family unified.

Your personalities should shine through during your ceremony. If you're karaoke fans, why not have a sing song with your guests to your favourite songs? For Harry Potter fans out there, you could even include a sorting hat or make a blended cocktail potion as part of a wine ceremony. If you're eco-conscious, plant a tree or scatter a wild seed mix. If you're both creative, paint something together or as a collective on a blank canvas, which represents the day of your wedding, and a new beginning – you'll always have a piece of unique art too. The only limitation is your imagination. Remember: this is your wedding, so do it your way!

Jen Whitworth, www.jenthecelebrant.co.uk