Weddings

I am authorised to solemnise legal marriages recognised by the Registrar General for Scotland anywhere in Scotland through the Open Sanctuary belief body. It is both an honour and a privilege to marry a couple and I want to be clear that I have no intention of carrying on a business of solemnising marriages for profit or gain. While I do charge a fee for my services, this fee simply covers my time, travel, and other associated costs. I do not make a profit from solemnising marriages.

The Marriage (Scotland) Act 1977 ensures that celebrants are not to be in the business of solemnising marriages for profit or gain. The fees I charge are in line with the Act’s guidance and they are necessary charges for me to continue providing my services in a way that reflects my beliefs and supports my work.

Reflecting on the last six years, I’ve come to understand that not every couple wants the same level of support or guidance. Some seek a simple, respectful ceremony, while others want something a little more elaborate. I’ve created different packages to reflect this, but they all have the same ultimate goal – you will be legally married!

Wedding Ceremony – example running order

Below is an example of a wedding ceremony running order that I create after meeting with the couple. I started by discussing what marriage means to them, followed by their vision, traditions, and the flow they’d like for their ceremony. Once I gathered this information, their running order was tailored to include all their meaningful moments.

Prelude & Guest Arrival

• Music: Soft instrumental or chosen prelude playlist to set the tone as guests arrive.

Processional

• Bridal Party Entrance:

Entrance of parents, followed by bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any special participants (e.g., Piper welcoming guests).

Music selection that reflects the couple’s taste.

Opening Segment

• Welcome & Pre-Introduction:

The officiant greets guests and introduces the couple’s story.

Brief mention of the venue and any special acknowledgments or announcements.

Remembrance & Reflection

• Remembrance Candle or Tribute:

A moment to honour loved ones who are no longer present.

• Reading:
• Example: A passage from Corinthians read by a close friend or family member (e.g., Danelle).

Personal Reflections & Tributes

• Discussion Segment:
• “What does marriage mean to you?” – A brief reflection from the couple or selected guests.

• Three Things I Love About You:

Each partner shares personal sentiments about their journey together.

• Words of Wisdom:

Messages from respected family members or friends (e.g., Auntie Anna and Auntie Laura).

• Ceremonial Ritual – Handfasting:

A symbolic ritual representing the binding of two lives.

• Declaration of Intentions:

Both partners state their commitment and intent to marry.

• Vows or Personal Promises

These can be traditional repeat after me vows or you can write your own promises to each other.

• Ring Exchange

I give you this ring as a symbol of my love, you will never have to face the world alone.

• Traditional Vows:

Reciting vows that have been personally written or chosen from tradition.

• Tie the Knot:

A symbolic gesture that visually represents their commitment.

• Ring Exchange:

Each partner places the ring on the other’s finger, symbolizing their unending love.

Closing Moments

• Pronouncement & Kiss:

I will declare the couple married, followed by the traditional kiss.

• Signing of the Marriage Schedule:

The couple, along with witnesses, sign the official register while gentle music plays in the background.

• Announcement:
• Introduction of the couple (e.g., “Mr and Mrs. [New Last Name]”).

Recessional

• Exit Processional:

Joyful music accompanies the couple and their party as they leave the ceremony space (e.g., Piper leads the recessional).

At the heart of my work is a deep respect for all beliefs. I embrace them with an open heart, fostering simplicity, peace, and love. I design each ceremony around your love story, ensuring it reflects your personal beliefs and values, whether religious or non-religious.

Please click below to view a short video of Matt and John’s marriage ceremony at Fallside Mill, Kingsbarns, courtesy of Black Fern Media!