Deborah and Brian’s Humanist Wedding at Ghillie Dhu

It was back in October that I celebrated Deborah and Brian’s wedding so I was really pleased this morning when I got an email from Brian telling me their great news – they’re expecting their first child! 



He went on to say, So, before the next 20 years of my life disappear in a haze of nappies, adolescent tantrums and graduation ceremonies, I just wanted to take a moment to say a heartfelt thank you for all your help.”


Brian & Deborah wrote a great ceremony, and they were very funny about the way their love had blossomed thanks to Deborah’s Auntie Christine, pickled capers and works nights out at the Northern Bowling Club. But what I didn’t realise on the day was that they were both a bit worried about how it would go down with Brian’s family, who are all good God-fearing Irish Catholics from the wilds of West Cork!  Brian takes up the tale… 


“Now, I must admit to being particularly concerned about my family’s reaction, especially after my pre-ceremony explanations were met with looks of bewildered anxiety and outright fear at the prospect of the impending ‘pagan’ ritual.  However, as it turned out my fears were totally swept away from the very start of the ceremony thanks in no small part to your pitch perfect manner and approach to the proceedings.  



You managed to combine the authority and gravitas of a traditional ceremony (reassuring even the most conservative guest that a ‘real’ wedding was actually taking place and not a casual quasi-New Age rite!) with the warmth and openness that allowed all those present to share in the intimacy of our day.   


Your joke about the hooded cloaks under the seats has become a much enjoyed and oft repeated part of the family story of the day (as anyone cornered by my uncles after a few pints will testify!).  Family and friends continue to comment on the ‘buzz’ about the ceremony – the palpable sense of shared intimacy and connectivity.  



The ceremony conveyed our feelings and emotions perfectly and by doing so enthused and delighted our loved ones.  We couldn’t have asked for anything more.      

As ever, it was my pleasure. Thank you, Deborah & Brian, and I wish all three of you every happiness! My thanks also to their photographer, Marc Miller for these great shots.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *