tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85727837875318136342023-11-16T12:10:04.645+00:00 YOUR BIG DAY!Top tips for planning your Humanist wedding in ScotlandMary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-53377709749221394252020-05-04T12:01:00.000+01:002020-05-24T09:59:37.090+01:00What can we do to mark our original big day if our wedding has been postponed?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The corona virus crisis has been a very difficult time for everyone and I really feel for you if you've had to (or will have to) postpone your big day. It's a difficult decision to make (or have imposed on you) and finding a new date can be stressful and time consuming. But one thing I will say is that once it's done, you'll feel a whole lot better! You can then re-set the wedding countdown and start looking forward to it all over again. And don't forget that every cloud has a silver lining - it'll give you more time to arrange or save up for a few little extras!<br />
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But what about your original wedding date - should you mark or celebrate that in some way? Definitely, in my opinion! And here are a few ideas to get you going:<br />
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<li><b>Crack open the bubbly!</b></li>
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Personally, I never need an excuse to open a bottle of bubbly, but if there was ever an occasion when it's an absolute must, this is it! You could even conduct a Prosecco/champagne tasting if you can't quite decide which one to have on your big day... Enjoy - hic! 😵</div>
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<li><b>Eat cake!</b></li>
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If you can get hold of the flour (LOL) why not bake a cake to go with that bubbly? It doesn't need to be a full on wedding cake of course - how about a heart shaped Victoria sponge or some iced cookies? They don't need to be up to the standard of <a href="https://www.biscuiteers.com/" target="_blank">The Biscuiteers</a> or <a href="https://www.peggyporschen.com/" target="_blank">Peggy Porschen</a> but you can have a lot of fun baking and decorating them together (and then fighting over who gets to lick out the bowl afterwards!)<br />
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<li><b>Have a romantic dinner!</b></li>
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Plan a special menu and cook a romantic dinner together with some nice treats - or have something delivered. And then get dressed up to enjoy it!<br />
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<li><b>Selfie time!</b></li>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (Photo by (and of) lovely <a href="https://www.facebook.com/chicphotobyjacqui/" target="_blank">chicphotobyjacqui</a>)</span></div>
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Dress up and have a photo session! And it doesn't need to be your actual wedding outfits of course - just an excuse to buy another dress eh girls?! One of my lovely wedding photographers (<a href="https://www.yourperfectweddingphotographer.co.uk/chic-photo-by-jacqui-paterson/" target="_blank">Jacqui at Chic Photo</a>) did this recently and her photos are incredible! OK, so she's an amazing professional photographer and your shots might not look quite like this, but have a go! It's all about making memories... Another of my wedding photographers (the fantastic <a href="https://www.silverphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Trevor Wilson</a>!) is also planning to get his couples out for a day-our-wedding-should-have-been celebratory photoshoot when the corona virus restrictions are relaxed a bit. Great idea eh?! Another nice way to mark your original big day is to spend a bit of time making a collage or photo book of all of your favorite photos from your time together. It'll remind you of all of those happy moments in your journey so far and you can start looking forward to the next adventure - your big day!<br />
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<li><b>Party!</b></li>
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Yeah, party like it's 2020 - i.e. online! 🥳 Look, we all know that it's never the same as the real thing, but it can still be fun to have a 'not the real wedding' party or a virtual happy hour with your friends and family. Dress up and tell everyone else to dress up too! I bet they'll all be delighted to celebrate with you! Get some music on, have a dance, enjoy a sing song, knock it back and maybe have a laugh with a silly 'Mr and Mrs To Be' quiz! Go on, it'll be a laugh!<br />
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<li><b>Light up the love!</b></li>
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For a more romantic feeling, light a love candle... You might be planning to do this as part of your wedding ceremony and if you light the candle together, it's a lovely way to symbolise your (soon to be) joining together in marriage...<br />
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<li><b>Scoff those treats!</b></li>
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If you had already bought edible favours for your reception guests, tuck into them now! Come on, they won't last anyway, so you might as well start ploughing through them! 😋 Don't know about you, but if <a href="http://www.tunnock.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tunnocks</a> are involved, they just call to me from the cupboard until they're gone! But if by some miracle, there are a few left over after your mega binge, send them out to your nearest and dearest as a wee treat. That'll put a smile on their faces (not that teacakes and snowballs are easy to post, so yeah, just polish those off!)<br />
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<li><b>Share the loving cup!</b></li>
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If you were planning to drink from a quaich (aka 'the loving cup') during your ceremony, why not practice now? There's quite an art to both of you holding the quaich at the same time and not spilling the drink all over each other! And take it from me (guys!), you do NOT want to do that on your wedding day, especially if the contents of the quaich are orange. I'm thinking whisky here, but yes, a few of my couples have (bravely) chosen Irn Bru over the years! It is Scotland's REAL national drink after all, but mad or what?!<br />
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<li><b>Pucker up!</b></li>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(photo credits: top left <a href="https://www.parrisphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Parris Photography</a>; top middle <a href="https://tubofjelly.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tub of Jelly</a>; middle middle <a href="http://www.heyesimages.co.uk/" target="_blank">Heyes Images</a>; middle right Sophie James; bottom left <a href="https://www.naturalweddingphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Natural Wedding Photography</a>; bottom middle <a href="https://imagineweddingimages.com/" target="_blank">Imagine Images</a><a href="https://imagineweddingimages.com/">/</a>; the rest yours truly)</span></div>
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Why not perfect that wedding kiss while you're about it? There's an art to that too and IMHO, it involves a 4 second hold, with no pecks, no snogs and definitely no tongues! Watch a few screen kisses (sorry guys, cue the rom coms here!), have fun and remember that practice makes perfect!<br />
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<li><b>Do a little origami!</b></li>
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Why not start making origami paper cranes? These cute little things are a symbol of love in Japan and the bride is supposed to make 1,000 of them to demonstrate her patience and commitment to the marriage. What?! 😲 Well, that's a big fat NO from me! Not your thing either? Well why not make them together? It's a real labour of love and they make lovely wedding decorations and/or keepsakes for your guests!<br />
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<li><b>Binge on sweeties!</b></li>
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Buy love themed sweeties for each other and enjoy the sugar rush together. How about Love Hearts, Haribo rings or chocolate hearts?<br />
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<li><b>Write some words of Love!</b></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZGMhifLlbeEh1q9kPhneQJHDa4g-Fs23qJ5mpGw7mn8nuCr5ZWnRuPn1Gonk-V7J0X41fxkGIkRSRYN2HJuKhyphenhyphentB14Q-ecDRHdGzoFv2PfZXsJGDZdQBBiMT6gBtK4BrO-EwlkNGmFu-/s1600/Vincent+Bourilhon+Mots+d%2527amour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ZGMhifLlbeEh1q9kPhneQJHDa4g-Fs23qJ5mpGw7mn8nuCr5ZWnRuPn1Gonk-V7J0X41fxkGIkRSRYN2HJuKhyphenhyphentB14Q-ecDRHdGzoFv2PfZXsJGDZdQBBiMT6gBtK4BrO-EwlkNGmFu-/s320/Vincent+Bourilhon+Mots+d%2527amour.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo created by the fantastically talented <a href="https://www.vincent-bourilhon.com/" target="_blank">Vincent Bourilhon</a>)</span></div>
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For those of a romantic inclination, how about writing each other a love letter? You could always write it on what would have been your wedding day and open it on what WILL be your wedding day. Or how about a penning paragraph each entitled, 'Why do I want to marry this lovely person/beauty/hunk/fine specimen/numpty/idiot/muppet?' (delete as appropriate).<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Plan your honeymoon!</b></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bz4J9P9QCBJtfWBULoulcbE24LUsxojASis5Uyu6VFNugoi-YBqaljqJetGptiCzGc2rG4k-7jU8m73fk4QwpJYQTE8YbUxAWZIbGPcYjEQoB9ambRYl-p_AV55Qd8GwDDGhWw25t4xH/s1600/e77ff6d0-885d-11e9-acea-5c4fa3e26be7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8Bz4J9P9QCBJtfWBULoulcbE24LUsxojASis5Uyu6VFNugoi-YBqaljqJetGptiCzGc2rG4k-7jU8m73fk4QwpJYQTE8YbUxAWZIbGPcYjEQoB9ambRYl-p_AV55Qd8GwDDGhWw25t4xH/s320/e77ff6d0-885d-11e9-acea-5c4fa3e26be7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Why not spend a bit of time fine-tuning your honeymoon plans? You might have already decided where you're going, but have you researched it properly? What activities are there at the resort? Are there any interesting sights to see or things to do? Where are you going to eat? And with that in mind (time to fess up!), is there anyone else out there who enjoys salivating over restaurant menus and isn't beyond deciding what to eat before you even get there?! Yep, that's me! And if a honeymoon abroad isn't looking likely (sob!), then plan a mini-moon in lovely Scotland instead (yay!). And don't forget that you'll have all of your lives together to explore the rest of the world....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tVnDHD-l7ascvTaVOhjV1cpZh1kM72qhHZMnzMzdGmJBQ9INTXSXBLcpgyBy2sqRVf6qHcsrKuy83Y-6QgP1xAZG62Rv9-fxf0mfeY9p1vOnJHFRjjsmBW_vj3Hagx5DDeEcZ57ABt9W/s1600/glencoe-engagement-photoshoot-silver-photography-006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="1100" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tVnDHD-l7ascvTaVOhjV1cpZh1kM72qhHZMnzMzdGmJBQ9INTXSXBLcpgyBy2sqRVf6qHcsrKuy83Y-6QgP1xAZG62Rv9-fxf0mfeY9p1vOnJHFRjjsmBW_vj3Hagx5DDeEcZ57ABt9W/s320/glencoe-engagement-photoshoot-silver-photography-006.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo by Trevor Wilson <a href="https://www.silverphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Silver Photography</a>)</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><b>Send out change the date cards!</b></li>
</ul>
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If you haven't already done it, why not spend some time choosing or designing 'Change the Date' cards? There are some great ideas online and you can all sorts of fun with the 'knot yet', 'unsave the date', 'roll with it - let's try this again' sort of theme!</div>
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I love this one from <a href="https://www.hiphiphooray.com/wedding-postponement-cards/we-still-do-we-still-will-wedding-postponement-card/" target="_blank">hiphiphooray.com</a>:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRtgJn_f3e9PWpA-QRUYtcLpivRaqkp-fcQYN7tsxpOk7rNgS3gX-MCF5ss5NSDs2WZZkorMLIJAEjzJVXotSag21gwnPt9cgJ9wnKUhs-wxtVaBO5Rgm_fAz-1d5YPOSq4jcPcTB38POI/s1600/Postponed-stay-home-stay-safe-delayed-cancelled-wedding-update-change-plan-announcement-cards-UK-printed-05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="555" data-original-width="555" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRtgJn_f3e9PWpA-QRUYtcLpivRaqkp-fcQYN7tsxpOk7rNgS3gX-MCF5ss5NSDs2WZZkorMLIJAEjzJVXotSag21gwnPt9cgJ9wnKUhs-wxtVaBO5Rgm_fAz-1d5YPOSq4jcPcTB38POI/s320/Postponed-stay-home-stay-safe-delayed-cancelled-wedding-update-change-plan-announcement-cards-UK-printed-05.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is also a cracker from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/775938016/funny-wedding-postponement-invitation?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=funny+save+the+date&ref=sr_gallery-1-23" target="_blank">TheTbird</a>:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoVPN9aRb0kYKa_TwC_dALdfsJX7PWytFmqhQi-oeYy0yqNCaqz9sU9B106TgluPoI7OVa7wfal4MB2w6ZZ02MBh03jy_gf1MSNN_xSUCe0SWCOn4NmF_zrjNZIkgJDqJ1MJfDQmY6wVyA/s1600/il_340x270.2239141344_7nd1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="340" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoVPN9aRb0kYKa_TwC_dALdfsJX7PWytFmqhQi-oeYy0yqNCaqz9sU9B106TgluPoI7OVa7wfal4MB2w6ZZ02MBh03jy_gf1MSNN_xSUCe0SWCOn4NmF_zrjNZIkgJDqJ1MJfDQmY6wVyA/s320/il_340x270.2239141344_7nd1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And another goodie from <a href="https://www.zazzle.co.uk/six_feet_apart_postponed_change_of_date_wedding_announcement_postcard-256693174245559123" target="_blank">pangga_designs</a>:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinM1YdnemqQfyZ3eRY6XZ0xk3zjAerr4VveMeC6BROFTs2xE_ztCFwgAS5WcA52mt9qcZwCfK-FOLUpXUf1LwmdM9vDTwp5JDkzyN2TInP8aFs9ANl6Q7DIyempQwASAlErVf5h9ppXes6/s1600/six_feet_apart_postponed_change_of_date_wedding_announcement_postcard-reeb9ff83afdb4b3394c362041405af71_tcvtc_261.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="158" data-original-width="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinM1YdnemqQfyZ3eRY6XZ0xk3zjAerr4VveMeC6BROFTs2xE_ztCFwgAS5WcA52mt9qcZwCfK-FOLUpXUf1LwmdM9vDTwp5JDkzyN2TInP8aFs9ANl6Q7DIyempQwASAlErVf5h9ppXes6/s1600/six_feet_apart_postponed_change_of_date_wedding_announcement_postcard-reeb9ff83afdb4b3394c362041405af71_tcvtc_261.jpg" /></a></div>
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There are also templates available that you can print at home or electronic profiles if you'd rather e-message friends and family and save on the paper. </div>
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<ul>
<li><b>Dance!</b></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87AJmI_6bvUxtf3MEVGPUU0PcWZKc91c9OA3IrOzYSD8AEmiPMFGicwH7mbKlOfCXYWWa8m4qEdJwNSOsvnFXJakI2PTjBUhRo2Z3yTwF1pTjiNqooLEOlnhERYzABLZzzAtePgqq7eTs/s1600/Kirsten+and+Stewart+by+Emma+Gray+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="960" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg87AJmI_6bvUxtf3MEVGPUU0PcWZKc91c9OA3IrOzYSD8AEmiPMFGicwH7mbKlOfCXYWWa8m4qEdJwNSOsvnFXJakI2PTjBUhRo2Z3yTwF1pTjiNqooLEOlnhERYzABLZzzAtePgqq7eTs/s320/Kirsten+and+Stewart+by+Emma+Gray+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWPVA0coq-0Erjl0Yzvixd6MqmKqqO-ZeTmBkbqYnF4XdKvAsDkIjKasU9vILiLu-AY5yyU4NlmohQdgoxi3XiW07Mt-KvgJ45cyvmsncQwIkLJH3RAB2aQsUH177cGZLJC6QGX0dWR_e/s1600/352+Emmajane+and+Charlie+Brister%252C+25.02.17+Imagine+Images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiWPVA0coq-0Erjl0Yzvixd6MqmKqqO-ZeTmBkbqYnF4XdKvAsDkIjKasU9vILiLu-AY5yyU4NlmohQdgoxi3XiW07Mt-KvgJ45cyvmsncQwIkLJH3RAB2aQsUH177cGZLJC6QGX0dWR_e/s320/352+Emmajane+and+Charlie+Brister%252C+25.02.17+Imagine+Images.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoCPfaUtmbhPedMm_OP2PQhLllGmofveMHL38eifevH5cCqOq0x7-xgcS_U99WVUtHI3_KpysJ0ZE9qNVPoRIzmwTmGIeFHSNsWSJParF22yBjsQjt7G5O7Pmh4F2iW_LVrD7BexXPPRT/s1600/Ashley+Coombes+Laura_Stuart_20161021_310_Col_WM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoCPfaUtmbhPedMm_OP2PQhLllGmofveMHL38eifevH5cCqOq0x7-xgcS_U99WVUtHI3_KpysJ0ZE9qNVPoRIzmwTmGIeFHSNsWSJParF22yBjsQjt7G5O7Pmh4F2iW_LVrD7BexXPPRT/s320/Ashley+Coombes+Laura_Stuart_20161021_310_Col_WM.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo credits: top <a href="http://emmagrayphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Emma Gray Photography</a>; middle <a href="https://imagineweddingimages.com/" target="_blank">Imagine Wedding Images</a>; bottom <a href="https://ashleycoombes.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ashley Coombes</a>)</span></div>
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Decide on your reception playlist, have a drink or two - and go on, you know you want to - sing along and boogie on down! And if you haven't chosen your first dance track yet, why not try dancing to your faves so that you can make a final decision? By the way, if you can't dance, how about taking this extra time to learn? There are tons of YouTube videos - try Howcast for a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdStVuh56sY" target="_blank">traditional waltz</a> or a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c85YThZEW6Y&list=PL1uI_OMw4OBrJJrW9DLhyjS510K3LOGYO" target="_blank">rumba</a> for example. It's better than shuffling awkwardly around the floor with everyone watching (err... yep, I am indeed talking from experience!). It doesn't have to be a full on 'Dirty Dancing' routine and you might not be on 'Strictly' any time soon, but a few simple steps can make you look and feel fab-u-lous on the dance floor! And once the restrictions are lifted, why not sign up for a class? Mary and Adam from <a href="https://www.costep.co/" target="_blank">Co-step</a> run a range of classes in the Central belt for example. By the way, I reckon that if you can survive dancing lessons without killing each other, your marriage will be rock solid! It isn't easy, so expect some sore toes and the odd mid floor 'domestic' when one of you mucks it up, but I can confidently guarantee that you'll have a great laugh together!<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Laugh!</b></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyEwftQ-aK0Yu8xE8gPU3l3Z29fT54uZDsMAiFBKqwKJvHEeF2qCAGkdNxbXET6y0hmOlXydEhplG5jUwfzOAXo7Mjr_NSObkNjiKCjOPMYBteHoQ6FAiue04CmLdqB97iGyKIvcdrqOS/s1600/BeFunky-collage+%252871%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxyEwftQ-aK0Yu8xE8gPU3l3Z29fT54uZDsMAiFBKqwKJvHEeF2qCAGkdNxbXET6y0hmOlXydEhplG5jUwfzOAXo7Mjr_NSObkNjiKCjOPMYBteHoQ6FAiue04CmLdqB97iGyKIvcdrqOS/s320/BeFunky-collage+%252871%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Photo credits, left to right from top: <a href="http://www.jenniflowerweddings.com/" target="_blank">Jenniflower Weddings</a>; <a href="http://www.jenniflowerweddings.com/" target="_blank">Jenniflower Weddings</a>; <a href="http://www.stylishimages.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stylish Images</a>; <a href="http://www.crieffphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Crieff Photography</a>; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Photographer/Whyler-Photos-421900537825795/" target="_blank">Whyler Photos</a>; <a href="https://zoealexandraphotography.com/" target="_blank">Zoe Alexandra Photography</a>; <a href="https://www.naturalweddingphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Natural Wedding Photography</a>; family member; <a href="https://www.ryanwhitephotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ryan White Photography</a>)</span></div>
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And that's it! Above all, have a laugh together! Let's see those double chins! Seriously (and yep, this is indeed super cheesy) building a strong marriage is all about weathering the storms together and learning to laugh in the rain...<br />
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If there was ever a storm, this is it, but this horrible time for all of us WILL be over at some point soon, things WILL return to normal and you WILL marry the person you love. In the meantime, find some fun ways to celebrate that love! 💗<br />
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<b style="background-color: #fff3db; color: #29303b; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i></b><br />
<br />Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-2969817766532605192017-03-29T16:19:00.000+01:002020-05-24T09:59:56.475+01:00How do I choose a celebrant?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicBiw5d5pdoTq1039AbaJmbHGmJeXjOjb0tBu_ehOtcdAoGiM4mFT4XMQWNNKTM45CmRDo7kT97xMR-OF6t8iHUM8JeNSEP4TsmQqP4lMMQ423XfRGbo7sB2GdH947V86QP3bKofX0IT-A/s1600/2016-07-09+13.35.341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicBiw5d5pdoTq1039AbaJmbHGmJeXjOjb0tBu_ehOtcdAoGiM4mFT4XMQWNNKTM45CmRDo7kT97xMR-OF6t8iHUM8JeNSEP4TsmQqP4lMMQ423XfRGbo7sB2GdH947V86QP3bKofX0IT-A/s320/2016-07-09+13.35.341.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The Celebrant is an important part of your big day and you need to feel happy, relaxed and comfortable with the person who is going to marry you, not to mention confident about their professional expertise! So here are a few tips for choosing a celebrant to suit you:<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><br /></span>
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<a name='more'></a><ul>
<li>Go on personal recommendations from friends and family and from venues and other wedding suppliers (especially photographers and videographers who witness the whole ceremony)</li>
<li>Look at their profile on the <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/humanist-ceremonies/find/">Humanist Society Scotland</a> website - you can search for a Celebrant via a date or location and you'll get a list of everyone available, with a profile. In addition to a photo, you'll also find a bit of detail about each person and possibly a video clip and/or a link to a blog or FaceBook page. </li>
<li>Click on any links to Celebrant blogs like this one - they give you a good feel for the kind of ceremony they'll provide and an insight into their approach to weddings </li>
<li>See if your Celebrant has a Facebook or Instagram presence. A lot of us communicate mainly on social media these days and you'll find that many Celebrants have an Instagram and/or Facebook presence. I'm usually happy to accept friend requests on my personal page, but you can of course send a direct message to someone without being a friend. Many of us also have a business page and you can like and follow us in that way too. By the way, you'll often find helpful reviews from other couples on business FB pages. </li>
<li>It's always worth googling your Celebrant's name - and it's sometimes surprising what pops up! </li>
<li>If you want further details or would like a chat, just FB message, text or email your Celebrant - or you could even go old style and phone for a chat! </li>
<li>If you don't feel you have enough information, ask to meet your Celebrant informally before you make a booking. We're all happy to do this of course, but it's best to arrange the meetings one at a time and then to move on to the next Celebrant if you're not sure, rather than to line up several at once. Personally, I'm not keen on being in competition with my lovely colleagues and I'd actually rather withdraw gracefully than go through a selection process, if you know what I mean! :) Having said that, I'm very happy to meet you before you book!</li>
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One thing to bear in mind is that we are all trained to the same professional standards and in order to do this work, it's essential to be able to establish rapport with people. We're an approachable and friendly bunch, we love what we do and we enjoy working with couples to help make their big day really special! So the chances are that you'll love your Celebrant whoever you pick!<br />
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By the way, my own contact details are:<br />
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Phone: Landline - 01786 842239 or Mobile - 07968 666432. <br />
(My mobile is often switched onto silent mode if I'm in meetings or conducting ceremonies, but just leave a message or text me and I'll get back to you ASAP!)<br />
Email: mary.wallace@humanism.scot<br />
FaceBook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/humanistmary/">humanistmary</a><br />
Instagram: humanistmary<br />
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-55585046640332065022017-03-17T22:40:00.000+00:002020-05-24T10:00:18.061+01:00Why should we choose a Humanist Society Scotland Celebrant?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1pQCpkijWP9Kct8CmltrlwrJ6r382mBTkQxAiJ5evbX9RWuzxGuwMDwIt8HWrZvodIWgDU4MV4jp_henPCTlMcwaYEMDtWO9rv8lEF5Bgm4tFxZQIVfievhfGzl6qkmC_eFmTlgok_zdW/s1600/16684087_1334923683231301_3696755325260558861_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1pQCpkijWP9Kct8CmltrlwrJ6r382mBTkQxAiJ5evbX9RWuzxGuwMDwIt8HWrZvodIWgDU4MV4jp_henPCTlMcwaYEMDtWO9rv8lEF5Bgm4tFxZQIVfievhfGzl6qkmC_eFmTlgok_zdW/s400/16684087_1334923683231301_3696755325260558861_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Well, I'm tempted to say because we're the original and the best! And do you know what? We really are! Here's a short video clip explaining why I think the <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/">Humanist Society Scotland</a> is the best possible choice you can make for your big day:<br />
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And here are a few more reasons to choose a Celebrant from the <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/">Humanist Society Scotland</a>:<br />
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<li>The HSS have many years of experience and were the first to be authorised (way back in 2005) to conduct legal weddings by the Registrar General for Scotland. We are by far the longest standing and most popular provider of humanist wedding ceremonies in Scotland. </li>
<li>On Valentine's Day 2017, we were also very proud to become the first ever non-religious organisation to be awarded prescribed status in law by the Scottish parliament. This is recognition of the fact that we are a trusted provider of humanist ceremonies in Scotland and in practice this means that we now have the authority to authorise our own Celebrants to solemnise marriage (and to register civil partnerships). We are the only Humanist organisation in Scotland to be in this privileged position and it means that our Celebrants no longer have to constantly re-apply (every year or every 3 years) for the authority to conduct legal marriages. That removes any uncertainty for you - so when you book your wedding, you never have to worry about whether your HSS wedding Celebrant will have the required legal authorisation on your big day, because they will! </li>
<li>We have an extensive network of Celebrants throughout Scotland (over 120 and counting!) and this means that in an emergency, we can find you a replacement Celebrant (at no extra cost to you). This is part of what we call The HSS Promise.</li>
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<li>We have a dedicated team of head office staff who can respond quickly to any queries.</li>
<li>All HSS Celebrants have to complete an intensive programme of training and mentoring before they are authorised to conduct ceremonies. </li>
<li>Our Celebrants also work to a set of standards to ensure consistency and professionalism. </li>
<li>We are all covered by Public Liability Insurance. </li>
<li>And perhaps best of all, the HSS is a Registered Scottish Charity and we campaign in various ways for a fairer society. This distinguishes us from many other commercial providers of wedding services. Part of the fee from every ceremony goes to support our charity work, such as <span style="text-align: justify;">running our <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/get-involved/streetcare/" target="_blank">StreetCare</a> projects in Stirling, Glasgow and Edinburgh. </span></li>
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So, all in all, you get a fantastic ceremony from a properly trained Celebrant, with reassuring back-up, whilst helping to make the world a better place! What could be better than that?!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></span>Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-60699588254992879452015-04-23T19:38:00.000+01:002020-05-28T12:28:56.046+01:00What is distinctive about a humanist wedding?<div>
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<li><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Humanist and inclusive</span></b></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Well, the first thing to say is that they are humanist of course! Humanist weddings are inclusive and because they concentrate on the things we all have in common, they tend to appeal to everyone, regardless of their individual beliefs. Humanism is a non-religious but ethical life stance about respecting and caring for one another and the world in which we live (good without god if you like!). If your granny is a church goer, she might be a bit bemused (or even concerned) about what a humanist ceremony involves, but you can reassure her that she'll probably love it! People who've never been to one of our ceremonies don't always 'get it' beforehand - but I can almost guarantee that they will 'get it' afterwards. Even people with strong religious beliefs often remark afterwards that they really enjoyed the ceremony. I should stress that there is NEVER anything anti-religious in our ceremonies - they are non-religious, but always in the context of humanist principles and values about consideration and respect for others. And by the way, in the interests of equality, I tend not to use the following expressions in my ceremonies:<br /><br />"Man and wife" (why not "woman and husband?") (I usually just say "husband and wife" or in the case of a same sex marriage, "wife and wife" or "husband and husband")<br /><br />"Who gives this woman?" (why not "who gives this man?"!) (I just don't ask this question!)<br /><br />"You may kiss the bride" (why not "you may kiss the groom?"!) (Actually, I simply say "you may kiss!")<br /><br />And on the subject of kissing:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpKHAcZm2FfgHoCfoKNs4GqLFvrw0RvDEsd8DG7DMjpi8VTYDsABxTC60Cl1o_f5cr0wRZv3YwLHDTjTWK6NxRrcET5YRmPdgD_hUvwhwwedIfg-na7ZXJJhHpdo_M6rDR4tJqf7MuRtJ/s1600/Kiss+the+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpKHAcZm2FfgHoCfoKNs4GqLFvrw0RvDEsd8DG7DMjpi8VTYDsABxTC60Cl1o_f5cr0wRZv3YwLHDTjTWK6NxRrcET5YRmPdgD_hUvwhwwedIfg-na7ZXJJhHpdo_M6rDR4tJqf7MuRtJ/s320/Kiss+the+dog.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />Err... not sure if the dog should get the first kiss Doug! Our ceremonies are Humanist, not Caninist (is that a word?!), but actually I love and welcome dogs at weddings!<br /><br />Read on for more on this subject and for a video clip of one of my weddings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our legal authorisation from the Registrar General is to conduct humanist (rather than just non-religious civil) marriages and we therefore ask couples to become members of our charity. This helps to support our campaigns, policies and community work. It also ensures that your ceremony is covered by the HSS Promise, to provide a celebrant who is trained, reviewed and insured and we will provide cover in an emergency at no extra cost. People sometimes ask why they have to join the Humanist Society and the answer is simple really - Humanist weddings are for Humanists (even if you didn't realise you were one!). In fact if you go to the main HSS website, you'll find a short <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/what-we-do/about-humanism/are-you-a-humanist/">'Could you be a Humanist?'</a> quiz that's fun to do!<br /><br />Membership of the HSS entitles you to our quarterly magazine and you can attend meetings and conferences if you want to, but of course you don't have to. A lot of people are happy to support our work without being actively involved, but we're always delighted when people engage directly with our campaigns. The current membership fees are detailed on our website: <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/">Humanist Society Scotland</a> and they form part of the deposit that you pay when you book your wedding with us.</span><br />
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<li><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Unique and personal</span></b></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">These days, whatever form of marriage you choose (civil, religious or humanist), you can make your ceremony personal and humanist ceremonies are certainly that! Basically, as a Marriage Celebrant, my job is to tailor-make each ceremony for each couple and that makes your day very special and my job an absolute joy! You can choose your own music, vows, readings and symbolic gestures (and I can help you to do so of course!). I also like to tell your 'story' too, to talk about your journey as a couple so far.... It not only adds a very personal element to the ceremony, but quite often some fun and laughter too! The following video clip (shot by <a href="http://www.abbeyweddingproductions.co.uk/" target="_blank">Abbey Wedding Productions</a>) of Laura and Adam's wedding at <a href="http://www.glenberviehousehotel.com/" target="_blank">Glenbervie House</a> is a good example. Enjoy!</span><br />
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Couples sometimes ask me, "Do we have to write our own ceremony?" And the answer is simple:<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Yes</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">,</span> if you want to!<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">No,</span> if you don't want to!<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; text-align: justify;">In my experience, I have found that many couples haven't got a clue where to begin and the way I usually work is to meet with you for a chat about what's important to you. I'll help you to decide on readings, music, symbolic gestures (such as candle lighting, hand fasting and so on) your vows and lots of the practical things you need to think about (where to stand, how to enter, how to set the room out etc..) It's also good to get to know a bit about you too and this all helps me to design a ceremony that is meaningful to you. After our first meeting, I will draft the ceremony for you and email it to you so that you can make any changes to it - and I always stress that it's very much a first draft, that you can make ANY amendments, additions and deletions you want to! The most important thing is that it is YOUR big day! Humanists believe in taking responsibility for their own actions and if you want to take responsibility for writing your own ceremony, that's great too - and I'll always be on hand to guide and advise you!</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><b>Relaxed and fun</b></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";">There is a lot of scope for fun at a wedding and it's important for you and your guests to feel </span><span style="font-family: "verdana";">relaxed and comfortable. Yes, your ceremony can be formal and traditional, if you want it to be, but if you want a bit of fun and laughter, that's no problem! Personally, I love a bit of banter during a wedding and if someone makes a funny remark at any point, that's great by me!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdGfASalb38gE3hF8ZG6CaEjk_wG8PqbgLDeOJRkuzQV1wh3vFGukwyZK5olzlJZHrYUlYq3UDg2dlgsEhKULxE_6fl_Bc0ZgINWMb0JS6knubZzTCDDVqBMVNWLOXxkzRsu47V5rNgmgH/s1600/having+a+laugh+by+Crieff+Photography.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdGfASalb38gE3hF8ZG6CaEjk_wG8PqbgLDeOJRkuzQV1wh3vFGukwyZK5olzlJZHrYUlYq3UDg2dlgsEhKULxE_6fl_Bc0ZgINWMb0JS6knubZzTCDDVqBMVNWLOXxkzRsu47V5rNgmgH/s320/having+a+laugh+by+Crieff+Photography.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(Rachel and James enjoying a bit of 'audience interaction' at their <a href="http://www.comriecroft.com/groups/weddings.html" target="_blank">Comrie Croft</a> wedding. Great pic by <a href="http://www.crieffphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">crieffphotography</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> (Kim and Alan's wedding at <a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">the Roman Camp Hotel</a> was a hoot from start to finish - George Lammie at <a href="https://www.naturalweddingphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">naturalweddingphotography</a> caught so many perfect moments!)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNZMCFpyE0Q2ftYRF9_rOl11a_EjmoXhyphenhyphenB9SWC3iL6FotJZOJqu7-Bl_0Q_C_KvlTtyM6yLVfuO6R7hx3tBh4kTHwLGB_lAUru2hhuvbGnJjJrYwe2Nemdkoa6LOazrr9kI0L_TitudK1/s1600/Having+a+laugh+by+Weir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNZMCFpyE0Q2ftYRF9_rOl11a_EjmoXhyphenhyphenB9SWC3iL6FotJZOJqu7-Bl_0Q_C_KvlTtyM6yLVfuO6R7hx3tBh4kTHwLGB_lAUru2hhuvbGnJjJrYwe2Nemdkoa6LOazrr9kI0L_TitudK1/s320/Having+a+laugh+by+Weir.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana"; font-size: x-small;">(Kelly and Greg's <a href="https://www.glenskirliehouse.com/weddings/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie Castle</a> wedding was great fun too. Photo credit to lovely Martin and Elaine at <a href="https://www.weirphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">weirphotography</a>)</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: verdana;">Meaningful and moving</b></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">For many couples it's about getting a balance, a ceremony that has an informal and light hearted feel to it in parts but is also serious, meaningful and moving when it needs to be. This is Sarah and Mike's very informal wedding at <a href="http://mhor.net/">Monachyle Mhor</a> for example and after a good laugh earlier in the ceremony, here they are exchanging their vows in a lovely heart felt moment:</span><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";"> </span></span><br />
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</span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8vfkIS_283Bvz8lDuAloW4VtKcOXMYOSs7TTBxpBYK6ySwe1OrjnvPcNTpNJLFqgYkd0AOYtNuuZiz_I3bX8IHuuZ8dnWAoPoCEkuVN1fKrzwzMIfsOtJZRqI9JjmIGVr6gq8Ou28nr53/s1600-h/Monachyle+Mhor+simple+and+natural+surroundings.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385472702206547426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8vfkIS_283Bvz8lDuAloW4VtKcOXMYOSs7TTBxpBYK6ySwe1OrjnvPcNTpNJLFqgYkd0AOYtNuuZiz_I3bX8IHuuZ8dnWAoPoCEkuVN1fKrzwzMIfsOtJZRqI9JjmIGVr6gq8Ou28nr53/s320/Monachyle+Mhor+simple+and+natural+surroundings.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 228px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";">At the end of the day, whatever choices you make about the type, style, content or structure of your wedding ceremony, it </span><span style="font-family: "verdana";">will be distinctive because <span style="font-style: italic;">you </span>are distinctive!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";">After her big day, one of my lovely brides Fiona (aka Mrs McKenna), told me that:</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">"For me, one of the really special things about choosing a Humanist ceremony is how much time we have spent as a couple just thinking about our relationship and our thoughts on marriage, and how these can be best reflected in our ceremony. With all the time and effort spent on the choices for the dresses, the flowers, the menu etc, it would be easy to get caught up and forget the most important part of the day – the vows. So I’m really glad that having a Humanist ceremony has allowed us to keep the focus on just that…….remembering why we are getting married in the first place, rather than stressing about seating plans and favours……"</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I think that says it all!</span></div>
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-1234441075425417182015-04-23T11:31:00.000+01:002020-05-28T13:11:37.984+01:00What is included in the wedding fee?<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As you’ll already know, getting married unfortunately isn't cheap (err....understatement?!) and many couples are understandably budget conscious these days. So when you make a booking for a Humanist wedding ceremony, it’s only natural to want to know what you get for your money!<br /><br />The ceremony will be one of the most important parts of your big day and given that it will be tailor-made for you and therefore highly personalized, many couples feel that the Celebrant fee is money well spent. It’s all about priorities of course, but when you consider the cost of the other aspects of your big day (ouch!), the ceremony fee is relatively modest and we think that it represents real value for money. In fact, you may well end up spending more on the flowers! Did you know that a recent survey by <a href="https://www.scottishweddingdirectory.co.uk/">The Scottish Wedding Directory</a> found that the average cost of wedding flowers was £500!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Although we're all self employed as Celebrants, we are authorised by, and work under the auspices of HSS, so we follow their recommended fee guidelines. More information is available on the main website at: <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/">Humanist Society Scotland</a> and the fee is currently £450, minus an upfront booking fee/deposit of £85. This includes m</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">embership of HSS and we require couples to become members of our charity to </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">help to support our campaigns, policies and community work. It also ensures that your ceremony is covered by the HSS Promise, to provide a celebrant who is trained, reviewed and insured and we will provide cover in an emergency at no extra cost. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Although some Celebrants charge a deposit on top of the £85 booking fee, I personally don't, so the remainder of the fee (£365) is payable direct to me when I invoice you during the month before the wedding.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Included in the fee is:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Admin:</b> the administrative work involved in confirming and managing your booking. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Support:</b> any help and support you might need to choose readings, music, vows or symbolic gestures. I can supply you with examples and give you feedback or advice on any ideas you've got and I’m always happy to help! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Advice:</b> if you ever need advice about any aspect of your wedding ceremony, don’t hesitate to give me a shout. Wee things, big things, legal things, practical things..... it doesn't matter, just ask and if I can help, I will! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Meetings: </b>I usually arrange meet with couples around 5-6 months before the big day and spend a fair amount of time (often around 2 hours) with them, planning the ceremony in detail, discussing the various options and helping them to make choices and decisions. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Drafting the ceremony:</b> after the main planning meeting, I’ll then draft the ceremony and email it to you. You can then come back to me with any amendments, deletions or additions and I’ll incorporate them into a new draft. In fact, we may end up emailing, texting, phoning or messaging each other quite a lot in the run up to the big day - just until you're 100% happy with the ceremony draft and have all the help and support you need. Don't forget that I'm always there for you! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><b>Conducting the ceremony:</b> I’ll be at the venue an hour early on the day to coordinate everything for you and to make sure that everything goes smoothly. I’ll liaise with the venue staff, musicians and photographer etc... I’ll also be on hand for any last minute problems and to soothe any frayed nerves! </span></li>
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Afterwards: </b>after the ceremony, I will send you a nicely produced final copy of the ceremony as a wee keepsake. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As you can see, all of that adds up to quite a few hours of work for each ceremony, although having said that, I still consider what I do too enjoyable to be ‘work’ as such! The wedding fee covers not just my time, but also my professional skills, and any guidance, support, help and advice I can (and will be very happy to) give you. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The other costs involved are:</span><br />
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<li><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Travelling expenses:</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> I wish I didn't have to charge for travel, but unfortunately with the cost of running a car, I can’t afford not to! Hopefully, we can arrange to meet somewhere that doesn't involve too much expense for you.</span></li>
<li><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Statutory fees:</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> these are payable to the Registrar for
the necessary legal paperwork to be drawn up. They are payable by everyone
getting married in Scotland regardless of whether the ceremony is Humanist,
religious or civil. There is more information about these fees on the website: </span><a href="http://www.nrscotland.gov.uk/registration/getting-married-in-scotland/how-do-i-go-about-it" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">National Records of Scotland</a></li>
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<b style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Please note:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />If you feel that the fee is prohibitively expensive, there are a few options that might make it all a bit less painful! They include the following:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We can arrange to meet somewhere that doesn't incur huge travel expenses for you. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It might help to spread the cost and if you’d like to pay in installments, just let me know because that is no problem at all. I usually invoice for the balance of the fee around 4-6 weeks before the big day, (and it's payable 2 weeks beforehand), but if you’d like to spread the cost, that’s no problem at all. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Please also note that a reduction in the fee will always be considered in cases of genuine hardship.</span></li>
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I have to say that dealing with money is my least favorite part of the job and if I could conduct weddings for nothing, I probably would! However, in paying a fee to your Celebrant, I think you're getting a lot for your money!<br /><br />Hopefully, I've answered any questions you might have on this subject, but please don’t hesitate to let me know if there’s anything else I can help with!</span><br />
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-44341003114094217202015-01-09T23:14:00.006+00:002020-06-01T15:48:30.397+01:00Are same sex marriage ceremonies different to those for straight couples?<br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014 came into force on Hogmanay 2014 making Scotland the 17th country in the world to legalise same sex marriages. After years of campaigning, <a href="https://www.humanism.scot/" target="_blank">Humanist Society Scotland</a> is very proud and happy to be able to conduct legal weddings for gay and lesbian couples at last! Warmest congratulations to Scotland's first Mr and Mr (Joe and Malx) who were married by HSS Celebrant Ross Wright and to Scotland's first Mrs and Mrs (Gerrie and Susan):</span><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
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<br /><font face="verdana" size="2">I conducted my first legal same sex marriage not long after the law changed and the words 'proud and happy' don't go anywhere near to describing how wonderful it was to marry the lovely Elaine and Mary, pictured below at their <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Broomhall Castle</a> wedding:</font> <div><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(congratulations Mrs and Mrs Robb! Yay! How fabulous is it to be able to say Mrs and Mrs!)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br />One question I'm often asked is how same sex ceremonies are different to those for straight couples.... </span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><br />And the answer is simple: they aren't! In fact the only real difference is that when it comes to the legal declarations, I will of course pronounce you to be wife and wife or husband and husband! And I can tell you now that it'll be an honour, a privilege and a pleasure to do so!<br /><br /> As a Celebrant, I'm there to help you to celebrate your love for one another and I'm happy to marry you whether you're two girls, two guys or a girl and a guy!<br /><br /> So whether you're straight or gay, I'll be there to:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Give you advice or information about Humanist ceremonies before you book, so that you choose the right ceremony for you as a couple </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Ensure that your booking is completed efficiently </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Provide you with whatever support you need in the planning stages of your wedding </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Meet with you to get to know you and to start planning your ceremony in detail </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Provide you with ideas and examples to help you to choose music, readings, vows and symbolic gestures (if you want to include any) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Draft a ceremony for you so that you can make amendments and additions to it </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Help you through the legal procedures </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Give you my undivided attention on the big day </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">Conduct the ceremony with professionalism, empathy, warmth and sincerity </span></li>
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So, to answer the question above, if you're a same sex couple, you can have whatever kind of ceremony you like! You can make it formal or informal, serious or fun, but above all it will be unique to you, reflecting who you are and what you care about in life. I'm there to help you at every stage and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!</span><br />
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</div>Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-50885304666001457402013-01-09T15:10:00.005+00:002020-06-01T15:59:36.556+01:00Can we have secrets and surprises in our ceremony?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<font face="verdana"><div style="text-align: center;"><font size="1">(revealing some secrets to the groom at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Glenskirlie Castle</a>. Photo by Suzanne Hodgson at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">naturalweddings</a>) </font></div><br /><font size="2"> The short answer is yes, of course! Naturally the actual marriage can't be a surprise to either the bride or groom (there is more information on this on the </font><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="font-size: small;">National Records of Scotland</a><font size="2"> website), but you could make it a surprise for your guests. I've conducted several baby naming ceremonies now that have turned into weddings and no one apart from the couple knew about it beforehand! Brilliant!</font><br /> <br /><font size="2"> Secrets and surprises can be a lot of fun and with that in mind, here's one that was revealed, in all it's glory, on what turned out to be a great fun wedding day:</font><br /> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="font-size: small;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLtLfIAw9EoGIMEfJ_X9q2q0zIeDKvpiZ55efQB9VRUw9d8SHECx5jHQ1lBqGJUqtIUsft2ymk6AuojfGNTbsFjaTW2DLHyOUcTrUrR8s7pZy077JlqrO1jhfqs0bwYsCUvMJimMKByA4/s320/Kilted+fun2.jpg" /></a> </div> <br /> <br /><font size="2">Please rest assured that it isn't a legal requirement for the Celebrant to inspect the groom's undergarments before the bride's arrival! 😁 I think you'll agree that Stuart's were kind of special though! Yes that's me on the left - I couldn't not look now could I?! It took a while before I got my face straight again for the arrival of the lovely bride by the way (thanks to Sophia and Stuart for the laughs at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">The Cruin</a> that day!)<br /> <br /> Seriously, there are lots of ways to include secrets and surprises in your wedding. The way I work is to draft the whole ceremony for you and email it to you a few months beforehand. This means that you'll be very familiar with everything I'm going to say, so it's really nice if there are one or two wee surprises. It helps to give the ceremony a bit of sparkle for you on the day. So, how can you do this? Here are a few ideas for you:</font></font><div><font face="verdana"><font size="2"><br /></font></font></div><div><font face="verdana"><span><a name='more'></a></span><ul><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">When I meet couples I often set them a bit of homework. I ask them to think about why they want to marry each other, to write it down and to send their thoughts to me, but to keep them a secret from one another. I set one couple the challenge of doing this in less than 140 words (not quite as restrictive as the 140 characters allowed on Twitter at the time!). Another way to do this is for you to tell me three things that you love about each other (sorry to be sexist, but a note to the boys - not just three words! A short paragraph each is perfect). I can then include it in the ceremony so that you hear it for the first time on the big day - and I usually read it out for you by the way. You might prefer to read it yourself, but most couples find it too emotional and are quite happy for me to read it on their behalf. Several couples have commented that this was their favourite part of the whole ceremony. </font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">One couple had their guests send in one top tip each for a happy marriage and I read a few (carefully!) selected highlights during the ceremony. Some were serious, some were funny and others were just too naughty to read out in polite company, LOL! But what a great way to involve everyone and what a laugh!</font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">I've also read out messages from guests unable to be there on the day and made it a lovely surprise for the couple. </font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">I once announced to the bride the destination for her surprise honeymoon. The groom, Craig, asked me to make the announcement during the ceremony and no one apart from him knew where they were going. When his lovely bride (you lucky girl Hayley!) found out that she was spending Christmas in New York, she was over the moon and understandably super excited! </font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">You might want to consider choosing a poem to read to each other (or have me read it on your behalf). If you keep it a secret until the day, it can give the words real emotional impact. </font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">What about asking a friend or family member to read for you, by making their own choice of poem and keeping it a secret until the day? If you do this, get the friend/family member to email it to me beforehand so that I know what they're reading and I'll keep my lips sealed! I once had a wedding where the couple were expecting one friend to read a poem, but what actually happened was that a whole group of mates had divided it up to read a line each. They then stood up seemingly randomly in the audience, to read their line. It worked beautifully and was such a surprise for the couple! It almost felt like a flashmob and it certainly made everyone smile! At another wedding, the two mutual friends who had introduced the bride and groom told the story of the start of their relationship by reading out emails and texts - it was hilariously funny! </font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">You can of course keep your vows a secret from one another until the day too and I can advise and help you with this, without giving your secrets away! </font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">How about the bride choosing a piece of music for her entry and keeping it a secret from the groom so that he hears it for the first time when she walks down the aisle? The tissues will be at the ready for this one by the way! And the groom could choose something for the end of the ceremony that he keeps a secret from the bride? (trust me on this one girls, I'll vet it to make sure it's OK!) </font></font></li></ul> <br /><font size="2"><b> To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post':</b></font></font></div>Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-39042747675004308492013-01-09T13:53:00.010+00:002020-06-29T22:22:11.214+01:00How can we involve wee ones (and fur babies) in our ceremony?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_ieQYvRm6HPMz_IMPZx7y28kShM3ZJTwzZZEAM_yhq7lSZu3aa3K34QID4H9hVH7IbOaxqPflPpMLTHwfgBDM0fAlg5-eOm9FbbUhCaZ20JNZkkGOOPOFoDt9b1gIRkQk8OotdAtrvLn/s1600/Family+affair.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_ieQYvRm6HPMz_IMPZx7y28kShM3ZJTwzZZEAM_yhq7lSZu3aa3K34QID4H9hVH7IbOaxqPflPpMLTHwfgBDM0fAlg5-eOm9FbbUhCaZ20JNZkkGOOPOFoDt9b1gIRkQk8OotdAtrvLn/s320/Family+affair.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><font face="verdana" size="2">Couples who have children often see their wedding ceremony as a way of celebrating not just their marriage but also their family life together. The first thing to stress is not to worry about any of the wee ones moving around or making a noise during the ceremony. Humanist weddings are often very relaxed in style (mine certainly are!) and in any case children often say or do something cute to entertain everyone! <br /></font>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2tmZCwadTfRRqnZoOgfGT0-728-uHQ_ju2GFuzVJMC5QQNGFvkFhn8spmu3vGSjDn4A7JL8cETkn4o3OyrRUsJ0jrP3wVQXHmvJJyL9dp1mgHymPVLBV2C-4YzF958vqq_KGSKMSmyI9e/s1537/Jacob+%2526+Harpist2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1537" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2tmZCwadTfRRqnZoOgfGT0-728-uHQ_ju2GFuzVJMC5QQNGFvkFhn8spmu3vGSjDn4A7JL8cETkn4o3OyrRUsJ0jrP3wVQXHmvJJyL9dp1mgHymPVLBV2C-4YzF958vqq_KGSKMSmyI9e/s320/Jacob+%2526+Harpist2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;">(toddler Jacob </span><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;">finds harpist </span><a href="http://www.iainhood.com/" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;" target="_blank">Iain Hood</a><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;"> fascinating </span><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;">at </span><a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;" target="_blank">Glenskirlie House</a><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;">)</span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><font face="verdana" size="2">By the way, I always make a few announcements before or at the start of the ceremony - to tell your guests not to worry about the wee ones, unless they get really unsettled, in which case they should feel free to wander about with them or to take them out for a while. It's a good idea to have some toys for the kids to play with during the ceremony (maybe not noisy ones though!) and something for them to eat and drink. And if they're your own kids, think about having someone else to look after them during the ceremony - although it is of course fine if they want to join us at the front! I'm very relaxed about and around children!<br /> <br /></font><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zCPWw0Wo_KR2NlJoZVdDh4VTY-YSIuFsT2hTwEWw8fV2qZqR1TGI6zwhqVF6KvWUG27l8ahAPeM5C6H5_bppZBE2TjOmN0IiTRmrrEqsNXwxGQJbNx4uhA7T_M8YLCKiB6JeqtiW6MQ3/s1600/kids.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1zCPWw0Wo_KR2NlJoZVdDh4VTY-YSIuFsT2hTwEWw8fV2qZqR1TGI6zwhqVF6KvWUG27l8ahAPeM5C6H5_bppZBE2TjOmN0IiTRmrrEqsNXwxGQJbNx4uhA7T_M8YLCKiB6JeqtiW6MQ3/s320/kids.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<font face="verdana" size="1"><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="verdana" size="1">(in the lovely courtyard at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Monachyle Mhor</a>)</font>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbY39LMqIyqu8f4fYhhuo_5Ivopm3S-vCkvJSAXk1LvLWjk9y7A76NNFaIwxHy271MpCbX3gJXj1ilwE1mBGhbJPFMZfkea-i_LeutbY9VTKSdTUpadSLHzehhD67lcLdK_NNhWKX5IoHD/s1600/Indiya+and+Chris.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbY39LMqIyqu8f4fYhhuo_5Ivopm3S-vCkvJSAXk1LvLWjk9y7A76NNFaIwxHy271MpCbX3gJXj1ilwE1mBGhbJPFMZfkea-i_LeutbY9VTKSdTUpadSLHzehhD67lcLdK_NNhWKX5IoHD/s320/Indiya+and+Chris.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<font face="verdana" size="1"><div style="text-align: center;">(at <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Fingask Castle</a> in Perthshire, picture by <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Jenni Browne</a>)</div></font>
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<font face="verdana"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">They may of course just want to roll about on the red carpet and entertain themselves!</span></div><div style="font-size: small;"><font face="verdana" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQE5Rmoc_Ei2xydoKnx3SnBtskr-0mavPnRw2DQ9XGR5Q3ZjhK5-fq6Pb69vYAXKhuELNNx4Sfpol4eF13-VFr2ATLrX5uwv68xzbBRGveKrKaoBgzhZbXMOiZ0BCVDf2phi5nutokLOb/s3017/no.129+Kim+and+Alan+George+Lammie.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2514" data-original-width="3017" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoQE5Rmoc_Ei2xydoKnx3SnBtskr-0mavPnRw2DQ9XGR5Q3ZjhK5-fq6Pb69vYAXKhuELNNx4Sfpol4eF13-VFr2ATLrX5uwv68xzbBRGveKrKaoBgzhZbXMOiZ0BCVDf2phi5nutokLOb/s320/no.129+Kim+and+Alan+George+Lammie.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="verdana"><font size="1">(photo by <a href="https://www.naturalweddingphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">naturalweddingphotography</a>)</font></font></div><div style="font-size: small;"><font face="verdana" size="2"><br /></font></div><font size="2">The Humanist approach certainly includes celebrating family values and couples with children often want to know how they might include them in the ceremony. Whether it's your own children, nieces, nephews or the children of friends and family, there are lots of ways to involve them. By the way, whatever you decide to do, it's always a good idea to rehearse with them at the venue (if possible) so that they know what they're doing - or at least show them the room the night before or the morning of the wedding. And don't worry if they don't 'perform' on the day, we'll go with the flow (you kind of have to with kids eh?!) </font></font><div><font face="verdana"><font size="2"><br /></font></font></div><div><font face="verdana"><font size="2">Anyway, here are a few ideas for involving them:</font><br /><ul style="font-size: small; text-align: left;"><li><font face="verdana" size="2">You can include them as flower girls, junior bridesmaids, the 'Princess of Honour' (rather than the Maid of Honour), page boys, mini ushers or the 'Best Boy' (rather than the Best Man)! </font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">Flower girls or page boys can scatter petals before the bride's entrance - and depending on how old they are and what sort of mood they're in on the day, that can be hilarious of course!</font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">They can carry one of those 'Daddy here comes Mummy' banners - or how about these two cuties:</font></li></ul><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyeuTDCq6dBWaCoE3l-EFlqRX3eVPwESYACHh9L2PRXsK1NJKsPuc4g3I1rsbXLjm6R35B_71NiXUay60onkb9YvoVD24iSZNerLVefyqP1HcXce2VK9GxGOtllE_p66XX67oWcK5dyKR7/s3264/BeFunky-collage+%252889%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3030" data-original-width="3264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyeuTDCq6dBWaCoE3l-EFlqRX3eVPwESYACHh9L2PRXsK1NJKsPuc4g3I1rsbXLjm6R35B_71NiXUay60onkb9YvoVD24iSZNerLVefyqP1HcXce2VK9GxGOtllE_p66XX67oWcK5dyKR7/s320/BeFunky-collage+%252889%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><ul style="font-size: small; text-align: left;"><li>I've also seen children give out Orders of Ceremony and confetti to the guests as they arrive.</li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">You could give the children bubbles to blow during the ceremony - or hand them out during the signing so that they can create lots of bubbles as you make your grand exit as a married couple.</font></li></ul></font><ul style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dJdb_WZMPzcTD_Z9bylZZeLaYqnorCudWPAUvfmC0X29vsQ2Kz1gknVSI3WV3E_esokoCduYHyFNApoJNSJM1P875gHz5eFz1uhgXmwdcH2CrGf4x0y1diwHpYduYL5uKy7pJ6Dg9lxY/s1600/bubble+fun.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2dJdb_WZMPzcTD_Z9bylZZeLaYqnorCudWPAUvfmC0X29vsQ2Kz1gknVSI3WV3E_esokoCduYHyFNApoJNSJM1P875gHz5eFz1uhgXmwdcH2CrGf4x0y1diwHpYduYL5uKy7pJ6Dg9lxY/s320/bubble+fun.jpg" width="211" /></span></a></div>
<font face="verdana"><div style="font-size: x-small; text-align: center;">(Can I have one of those bubble guns please?!)</div><div style="font-size: x-small; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><font size="2">By the way just watch it if the page boy has access to a skean dhu! And yes, this one looks as if he's about to stab someone, but I can fortunately report that no bridesmaids were hurt in the making of this particular marriage!</font></div><div style="font-size: x-small; text-align: center;"><br /></div></font>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7S3qrHEITRBHrQ9eR-uxir7U_6sOFF2j41F4clsZOHbS-QKwMAPXtEqam6_a8L6ADKykWiOVrWE_QKxk0rQOk594uuvNF-5cpgrg8AimY4ZlQP67WdV3R_gbyhG-_-J7kS6T_bxjGGVp/s1600/IMG_3409_2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX7S3qrHEITRBHrQ9eR-uxir7U_6sOFF2j41F4clsZOHbS-QKwMAPXtEqam6_a8L6ADKykWiOVrWE_QKxk0rQOk594uuvNF-5cpgrg8AimY4ZlQP67WdV3R_gbyhG-_-J7kS6T_bxjGGVp/s320/IMG_3409_2.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
<font face="verdana"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <font size="2"><ul><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">If you decide to include handfasting in your ceremony, the children can help by bringing the ribbons or tartan forward and/or helping to tie the knots. You can even include ribbons in their favourite colours and tie them into the handfast binding along with your own tartans/ribbons. </font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">If you're drinking from a quaich during your ceremony, you could use something non-alcoholic so that your children can share it. Good old Irn Bru comes to mind (watch that dress though girls!)</font></font></li><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">A particularly confident child might like to read a short poem for you. There are lots of lovely poems that are suitable for children to read and I can give you help and examples.</font></font></li></ul></font></font><ul style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5L5LX2X01d3gf0lrfxoq9AIhDG8bZh6b31EZhONfpv0cuBrPC3_iNReSqIngCOt6Urck-oFSCueLfyZKkM1dAD3mgBzHP_PyrY_kOFQhNMFogZBZiRby7BaNcIltO2zWxFlCNcmeNDja/s1600/W090214A_010.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz5L5LX2X01d3gf0lrfxoq9AIhDG8bZh6b31EZhONfpv0cuBrPC3_iNReSqIngCOt6Urck-oFSCueLfyZKkM1dAD3mgBzHP_PyrY_kOFQhNMFogZBZiRby7BaNcIltO2zWxFlCNcmeNDja/s320/W090214A_010.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<font face="verdana"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(photo by </span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#" style="font-size: x-small;">Dave Hunt</a><span style="font-size: x-small;">) </span></div> <br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><font face="verdana"><font size="2">Even very young children can act as ring bearers with a bit of help - as long as you make sure that the rings are totally secure anyway. But beware boisterous page boys with ring cushions, especially if they're identical two year old twins like Elliot and Murray - aren't they the cutest though?! </font></font></li></ul></font><div><font face="verdana"><font size="2"><div style="text-align: center;"><font size="2"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSM1dFwdqYWph1XC6bm1b4NSGDcgVIhPHchK9cGvqvx4Ngr1llS3wmCrGZZifvHKc4wGRcERI2NB61H6xivEpAvzaQmf1K9tb954a1FdUCKd835RGJLH0rJUSC85cT3ONDDhcvTuHSpUE1/s320/the+boys.jpg" /></font> </div></font><div style="text-align: center;"><font size="1"><font>(Photo by </font><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Jenni Browne</a><font>)</font></font></div> <br /><font size="2"> Matthew here was a bit older and completed his duties splendidly well: </font></font></div><div><font face="verdana"><font size="2"><br /></font>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHWno2gZ7j-U720-uzB0J9J-28RLU2LPtYBIz-uKPy6Cxr-241IVsac9ZOOrkjyMNo5kQPTcmSRpawL3pWKbMuCRQv4kGLk2yR9ZIO0X_XQdBlg9tTHFQqPIGunL0qWqHGHLm3DHORXII/s1600/Involving+wee+ones+by+Jenniflower.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuHWno2gZ7j-U720-uzB0J9J-28RLU2LPtYBIz-uKPy6Cxr-241IVsac9ZOOrkjyMNo5kQPTcmSRpawL3pWKbMuCRQv4kGLk2yR9ZIO0X_XQdBlg9tTHFQqPIGunL0qWqHGHLm3DHORXII/s1600/Involving+wee+ones+by+Jenniflower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="verdana" size="1">(Photo by <a href="http://www.jenniflowerweddings.com/" target="_blank">jenniflowerweddings</a>)</font></div></span><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;">And how about Louis, looking seriously cool as 'Ring Security' at his mum and dad's wedding at </span><a href="http://www.glenberviehousehotel.com/" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Glenbervie House Hotel</a><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: left;">:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><font size="2"><br /></font></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBotmtfmbldqpF3zVnRZtliNSFXI8v7xNeVu9dnqhyphenhyphenjxVQi91c4dJh-C_Nc5L5fdS6vDTY2Yu2gPmzz-73iLcFkdL28L4BDa7ZWwqcx3IRsCTMaRvZJjkcIBhvDSP2AifIkeH4JGr_OJB5/s5472/Ring+Security+with+attitude.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5472" data-original-width="3648" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBotmtfmbldqpF3zVnRZtliNSFXI8v7xNeVu9dnqhyphenhyphenjxVQi91c4dJh-C_Nc5L5fdS6vDTY2Yu2gPmzz-73iLcFkdL28L4BDa7ZWwqcx3IRsCTMaRvZJjkcIBhvDSP2AifIkeH4JGr_OJB5/s320/Ring+Security+with+attitude.jpg" /></a></div><font size="2"><br /></font></span></span></div><font face="verdana" size="2"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">I'm sometimes asked if children can act as witnesses and they </span><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: small;">can, but not until they are 16 years of age (if you still count them as children at that age!)</span></div></span></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2">Couples with children sometimes want to have a joint wedding/naming ceremony and there are all sorts of ways to do this. For example, you can make promises to your children during the vows, have readings about parenthood or ask your witnesses to be Guide Parents. There are lots of ideas and I can help you to decide what would work best for you. </font></li><li><font face="verdana" size="2"> Of course, 'the wee ones' in your family might not be human (although if they're anything like most of the dogs I've owned, they probably <i>think</i> they're human!). </font></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXbptTzt3bykODXQfp-Rx60XB-3v_gc1BBRlRnZSb8pQKzW-IwtkIypcEA_zJLHdC3ailzGDMIw3Grx2IzmRip0Oun52TykXuBM8FNKKJCD5f2v1uePMGq14EORtnlVP1Jq0B8ye8lR1T/s3264/BeFunky-collage+%252825%2529+2019.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="3264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsXbptTzt3bykODXQfp-Rx60XB-3v_gc1BBRlRnZSb8pQKzW-IwtkIypcEA_zJLHdC3ailzGDMIw3Grx2IzmRip0Oun52TykXuBM8FNKKJCD5f2v1uePMGq14EORtnlVP1Jq0B8ye8lR1T/s320/BeFunky-collage+%252825%2529+2019.jpg" /></a></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Cute little doggie ring bearers have been featured elsewhere in this blog (see my <a href="http://humanistweddingsbymary.blogspot.com/2009/09/do-you-have-any-advice-about-exchange.html" target="_blank">'exchange of rings'</a> post) and it'll come as no surprise that I love them! Ashley and James had their adorable pooch, Moose, involved in every aspect of their wedding at Kinlochard Village Hall and yes, he totally stole the show!</li></ul></font><div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;">(photo by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fraserandgibsonphotography/" target="_blank">fraserandgibsonphotography</a></span><span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: x-small;">) </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font face="verdana"> <br /><div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;">Basically, as far as I'm concerned, if you want your dogs to be there on your wedding day, go for it - and I'll be at the front of the queue to make a big fuss of them!</div><div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: small; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4DEdFPrwVKG2YMIFvv4V3QHYoaLOR4IAYVpoI39IznwDGx_SpApQsRQ7lQf56J7VtMgbSiUAabdsndiCAZdFli-mroZWUhLEjWpChDtnHEhFVjxgpzAsI2JnW9UBpkMTzPBAADMbtWMJ/s3000/Callum+and+Daniel+Wedding+Day+April+26%252C+2018+0145+by+Francis+J+Smith.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="3000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4DEdFPrwVKG2YMIFvv4V3QHYoaLOR4IAYVpoI39IznwDGx_SpApQsRQ7lQf56J7VtMgbSiUAabdsndiCAZdFli-mroZWUhLEjWpChDtnHEhFVjxgpzAsI2JnW9UBpkMTzPBAADMbtWMJ/s320/Callum+and+Daniel+Wedding+Day+April+26%252C+2018+0145+by+Francis+J+Smith.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(how handsome are these four?! This is Daniel, Callum, Nelson and Ben at </span><a href="http://www.comriecroft.com/groups/weddings.html" style="font-size: x-small;" target="_blank">Comrie Croft</a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> snapped by </span><a href="https://www.francisjsmith.co.uk/" style="font-size: x-small;" target="_blank">Francis J Smith</a><span style="font-size: x-small;">)</span></div><div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: small; text-align: center;">Don't forget that the two of you can be big kids of course! If you want your ceremony to be a bit daft, that's great and although there is a serious element to every wedding, I'm always happy to consider fun and wacky ideas! </div></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font face="verdana" size="2"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4JOd3wMrRsvM_gfGY6F1NwT_o6EWEIaoCqkPBtX4KN2eSj8o0UA0GqBrH8g87-FvxNHnQohpDcFkG5Z7rQl9SVtOLF6IG2Ib6pqVIjt_L5xrxl7tHmcaTvgaepmjUczYAyANzz0sZ_71h/s3264/BeFunky-collage+%252891%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="3264" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4JOd3wMrRsvM_gfGY6F1NwT_o6EWEIaoCqkPBtX4KN2eSj8o0UA0GqBrH8g87-FvxNHnQohpDcFkG5Z7rQl9SVtOLF6IG2Ib6pqVIjt_L5xrxl7tHmcaTvgaepmjUczYAyANzz0sZ_71h/s320/BeFunky-collage+%252891%2529.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">(Star wars fun pic by George Lammie at <a href="https://www.naturalweddingphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Natural Wedding Photography</a> and jumping for joy pic by <a href="http://emmagrayphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Emma Gray Photography</a>)</span></div></font></span></div><font face="verdana"><i> <br /><font size="2"><b>To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click on 'older post': </b></font></i></font></div></div>Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-50069533142698391082011-10-30T11:27:00.000+00:002020-05-24T10:01:48.244+01:00What symbolic gestures can we include in our ceremony?<div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">(photo by </span><a href="http://www.jillcherryporterphotography.com/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Jill Porter</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">)</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You might be looking for a ceremony that is plain and simple, so the idea of including symbolic gestures may not be for you and that's fine. You don't <i>need </i>to<i> </i>consider any of these ideas (and humanist ceremony certainly don't need 'padding' in any way!), but if you're interested read on....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As with most aspects of the ceremony, you can include almost anything as long as it's non-religious and fits with the Humanist ethos. The most common symbolic gestures are probably </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">handfasting</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">, </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">drinking from a quaich</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> and </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">candle lighting</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> and I have separate posts on all three of those, as well as a section about the </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">warming of the wedding rings</b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> in the post giving advice about the exchange of the rings. But there are lost of other things you might want to consider:</span></div>
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<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Releasing balloons</span></b></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08lv4xTa6Vsyha7CK_ALShk1rHp5QIcy-BWJcbcoiMj5h7xfuELdwCJSN0b_fw6EzM-uFTQ4-4D_t9bW4_whC48ukL8r2kjAg3lx3EMFqJsVbEfxl_EhKw4FMfhAemPXa4lrH-lUAE8gi/s1600/Balloons3rev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi08lv4xTa6Vsyha7CK_ALShk1rHp5QIcy-BWJcbcoiMj5h7xfuELdwCJSN0b_fw6EzM-uFTQ4-4D_t9bW4_whC48ukL8r2kjAg3lx3EMFqJsVbEfxl_EhKw4FMfhAemPXa4lrH-lUAE8gi/s320/Balloons3rev.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Releasing heart shaped balloons at <a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie Castle</a>)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There's a nice bit of symbolism in releasing balloons - about the two of you starting your journey together and about everyone's hopes and wishes for you as they each release a balloon. This looks lovely on photo of course but there are a couple of practical things you need to bear in mind! First of all, check that you have the necessary permission because of the possible hazard for low flying aircraft. And also think carefully about the ecological implications too, particularly the possible harm to wildlife. It is possible to buy biodegradable balloons made from natural latex nowadays but apparently these still take quite a long time to break down and are potentially dangerous if accidentally ingested. This is definitely something to consider carefully before you make a decision. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Yvonne and Kyle during their wedding at <a href="http://www.broomhallcastle.co.uk/" target="_blank">Broomhall Castle</a>. Pics by <a href="http://www.weirphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Martin Weir</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are various stories about the origin of this custom (see the </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jumping_the_broom" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">wikipedia</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> entry on this for example) </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">and it has roots in both gypsy and African American cultures. It may not be for you, but it can add an interesting (and fun) element to the ceremony. The symbolism here is about sweeping away the old and starting a new life together. In days gone by couples who wanted to live together but weren't able to legally marry would declare their intention to 'live over the brush' - and once they'd jumped over it, the brush would then be kept in their shared home as a symbol of their union. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What more symbolism do you need in a marriage ceremony than the idea of starting new life, nurturing and growing stronger? If the two of you have an affinity with the natural world (whether you're passionate gardeners or not), this might be a nice idea to include in your ceremony, especially if it's being held in your own garden. When Jill and Michael decided to get married, they didn't just plant a tree, they designed their whole back garden in Stirling (pictured) around their wedding ceremony! It was stunning, but then they are amazing <a href="http://www.vialiigardenservices.co.uk/default.html" target="_blank">garden designers</a>.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could decide to go one step further and include all of the natural elements in your ceremony - air, earth, fire and water. You could get married out of doors, plant a tree or shrub, light candles (you can buy lovely outdoor garden candles) and drink water from a quaich (or even have it sprinkled on your hands as in the Thai good luck tradition)</span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Sand ceremony</b> - mixing together two containers of sand, to represent the merging together of your lives</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Lanterns</b> - releasing sky lanterns, as used in many Asian festivals, can represent the floating away of your troubles, to be replaced by good fortune and luck.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Pebbles</b> - a lovely idea from a Scottish couple living in New Zealand. They asked each of their guests to come to the ceremony with a small pebble from their own garden or from somewhere in Scotland that was special to them. During the ceremony, their son collected the pebbles in a wooden bowl and they took them back to NZ as a unique reminder of their special day. Nice eh?</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another pebbles idea came from Suzanne and Kieran who inscribed two stones, wrapped them in hessian and then threw them into the loch where they got married (<a href="http://www.venachar-lochside.com/" target="_blank">Venachar Lochside</a>)</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Mexican hug</b> - you may be wondering what on earth this is! Well, you know what a Mexican wave is? As seen at many a sporting event, it's where everyone gets up in turn with their arms in the air. Well, the Mexican hug is where the couple start off by hugging each other and then someone else: those people then hug another person - and so on, until everyone in the room has been well and truly hugged! It's a great way to involve everyone and a good laugh if you want to inject a bit of humour into your ceremony. I've also had a couple ask everyone to kiss each other too - it was Valentine's Day mind you!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Sawing wood</b> - yes, sawing wood! This is a very unusual gesture and it's a German wedding tradition that involves the bride and groom using a two handled saw to work together as a team to saw a log in half. It's impossible to saw it in half unless you work together as a team, another great message for married life! Janine (who is German) and Roy did this at their wedding at <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/doune/dounecastle/" target="_blank">Doune Castle</a>:</span></li>
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<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Animals<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> - personally, I'd guard against using animals in the ceremony (unless it's your own pet and they aren't going to be stressed in any way). The ethics of owl ring bearers or releasing butterflies or doves need to be very carefully considered.</span></span></b></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Other cultures</b> - there are of course all sorts of traditions from other countries and cultures that might be included in your humanist ceremony, such as the Jewish tradition of stamping on a glass and shouting mazeltov (good luck), or the Greek tradition of exchanging stefana (wedding crowns). There is also the Thai tradition of wrapping cotton around the wrists of the bride and groom as a good luck symbol. J and Billy did this during their wedding:</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Basically the world is your oyster as far as symbolic gestures go! So if you're interested in any of these ideas or you think of something original, talk to your celebrant about it. We humanists are generally an open minded lot and as long as what you're considering is ethical and non religious, you'll probably find that the celebrant is happy to include it.</span></div>
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-53719917713442993322010-12-02T13:11:00.007+00:002020-05-24T10:02:07.264+01:00What will help to calm our nerves?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The first thing to say is that almost everyone feels a bit nervous on their wedding day - it goes with the territory! You're excited, you want to look your best, you want everything to go well.... And there are a lot of things I can do to help! Here are a few of my top tips for dealing with nerves:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">One thing that will help a lot is that I'll be drafting everything for you and sending it to you well before the big day, so by that time you'll be very familiar with the content and structure of the ceremony. Knowing what's coming really helps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A rehearsal can help too if you're very nervous. I always leave it to you to decide whether you need a rehearsal or not. I have to say that the majority of couples don't bother with one because they've seen the script beforehand and because I'm always there an hour early on the day to go through the practicalities, to liaise with readers, musicians or hotel staff and to make sure that everything is set up as it should be. By the way, I almost never conduct more than one wedding in one day, so that I can really be there for you rather than nervously clock watching!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Before the ceremony, I'll be chatting to the groom and helping to calm any nerves. One groom took the time to email me after the big day to say, </span><i><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"I really appreciate the way you calmed me down before the ceremony - I was a little nervous (to say the least!) but chatting to you really did help. Thanks for all the advice and help beforehand too"</span></i></span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(picture by <a href="http://www.keathbankphotography.tv/" target="_blank">Keath Bank</a>)</span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Some guys are really relaxed about everything of course (aye, I'm talking about you Grant!)</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And speaking of nerves, girls, don't be too late will you? It's one sure fire way to make your groom really panic! </span></li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9CvEv1GHGWs3u813Cgf1CFzWeZUFIrYJaM2yKphzC7medPa31Q12KwHmzfwpEPiCvPItaigJCc1Pc1Vx9amxBoW5DmJ7CPttTDJ3zoJRclS_imalg2ORYFr-4SaPR-t1buafQIgM-N19/s1600/late%2521+by+Duke+Photography.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq9CvEv1GHGWs3u813Cgf1CFzWeZUFIrYJaM2yKphzC7medPa31Q12KwHmzfwpEPiCvPItaigJCc1Pc1Vx9amxBoW5DmJ7CPttTDJ3zoJRclS_imalg2ORYFr-4SaPR-t1buafQIgM-N19/s320/late%2521+by+Duke+Photography.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Steven waits for a very late Lynne (photo by Pete at <a href="http://www.dukestudios.co.uk/" target="_blank">Duke Studios</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(she did turn up by the way!)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKidc9WleCiTge9Fm5NcSF8WsfAsbvYtqCy3Cqkun107P_0poti8uUR8pBB389uhqRGYbkXXkAjKGlbVDPj5SEC3PsH6frwbVH4C4Q6I9Y_2nBJJOuT1PJuRrRZ1tlPetg5de3nBOamRo/s1600/Fingers+crossed2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKidc9WleCiTge9Fm5NcSF8WsfAsbvYtqCy3Cqkun107P_0poti8uUR8pBB389uhqRGYbkXXkAjKGlbVDPj5SEC3PsH6frwbVH4C4Q6I9Y_2nBJJOuT1PJuRrRZ1tlPetg5de3nBOamRo/s320/Fingers+crossed2.jpg" width="213" /></a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Don't leave the poor lad with his fingers crossed will you?)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Up to 20 minutes late is fine, but try not to make it any later if you can help it. And if your time keeping is notoriously bad, appoint someone else (mum? chief bridesmaid?) to act as a time keeper for you. It won't matter so much to me (I almost never conduct more than one wedding in one day, so that I can really 'be there' for you rather than nervously clock watching!), but it's not a great idea to leave your guests waiting if you can avoid it.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I'll be chatting to both of you before the ceremony to help calm any nerves by the way.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGDCZbgmRPB3ESbnrVGa-bdjd9ZrjTY-6u07v1iUVViS-9pw7f-kmLlndUB5RaAzDMcSYUktLWERTJKQmDMusRJkIdHiTimcgq0teP438Nyyo5EAHE4u7bqO2mrnBkBr5wUH8ERoup5US/s1600/calming+nerves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGDCZbgmRPB3ESbnrVGa-bdjd9ZrjTY-6u07v1iUVViS-9pw7f-kmLlndUB5RaAzDMcSYUktLWERTJKQmDMusRJkIdHiTimcgq0teP438Nyyo5EAHE4u7bqO2mrnBkBr5wUH8ERoup5US/s1600/calming+nerves.jpg" width="130" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHwrbAOON6eneVTr0NrmQbUJH1XE1c3rAUcQ5QZuis1NObEKBwtN4mQ-oKAJDhAiXMwgOn4PhfttbV0zfQ89HexzsXy1OhXLnhr68HgYEzU5DyXUOWEOGUyydJGEhUqDNVUqMUl3q79-Y/s1600/calming+nerves+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAHwrbAOON6eneVTr0NrmQbUJH1XE1c3rAUcQ5QZuis1NObEKBwtN4mQ-oKAJDhAiXMwgOn4PhfttbV0zfQ89HexzsXy1OhXLnhr68HgYEzU5DyXUOWEOGUyydJGEhUqDNVUqMUl3q79-Y/s1600/calming+nerves+2.jpg" width="132" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photos at <a href="http://www.venachar-lochside.com/" target="_blank">Venachar Lochside</a> by <a href="http://www.alicleary.com/" target="_blank">Ali Cleary</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Don't drink too much before the ceremony will you? One drink can steady the nerves of course, but don't forget that I can't marry you if you're under the influence. So keep it at one beforehand and then you can knock it back afterwards!</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn6JBopP9Pn9Oa-lRy7Yw5JPtoBc4Xhyphenhyphengmm37nAOX9m77nnoT1n57jOfekgU9Fk9h45rWfiF4nyMWdC82KP2p_LN0rPXKZxFs_dpIpAVppV7TM_ly0UL0zwP8Uf7mqw_JhgrXXcu5Pxzi4/s1600/Drinkies+final.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn6JBopP9Pn9Oa-lRy7Yw5JPtoBc4Xhyphenhyphengmm37nAOX9m77nnoT1n57jOfekgU9Fk9h45rWfiF4nyMWdC82KP2p_LN0rPXKZxFs_dpIpAVppV7TM_ly0UL0zwP8Uf7mqw_JhgrXXcu5Pxzi4/s320/Drinkies+final.jpg" width="213" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Thomas swears that he was only holding the bridesmaids glasses while they were having their photos taken! Aye, right....) (<a href="http://www.glenberviehousehotel.com/" target="_blank">Glenbervie House near Larbert</a>)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I always greet the bride outside the ceremony room before we start and it'll really help to calm any nerves. </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNGNEnb5bkxdLD2tCUHejMQQlyW52SIgPtVwwur3lYGZikqI5isN5MTospj_S9mjkqJtiWzo52S1Fzt6zV3KIFyEF0_-Sa_Fm2LxV1-Q61OmaOBMzdMymgKMBFgG6NIq_l2ZkEyXYL5zj/s1600/Meet+and+greet+Duke+Photography.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBNGNEnb5bkxdLD2tCUHejMQQlyW52SIgPtVwwur3lYGZikqI5isN5MTospj_S9mjkqJtiWzo52S1Fzt6zV3KIFyEF0_-Sa_Fm2LxV1-Q61OmaOBMzdMymgKMBFgG6NIq_l2ZkEyXYL5zj/s320/Meet+and+greet+Duke+Photography.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(A very late Lynne finally arrived and everyone agreed that she was worth the wait!)(Photo by <a href="http://www.dukestudios.co.uk/" target="_blank">Duke Photography</a>)</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I'll make sure that you're completely ready by the way and if you've got lippy on your teeth, your hair is mussed up or your bra strap is showing, then you can rely on me to tell you!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4p1BXRsGbnmDL8kMJSeIdAKIkpn-u1HwfcC7JLa0rJ_3aGVYJuFkDIbPZFw_faefItz39swOebGqwJtNLyf0Y31aAi5sUgvxJxRox-tcd9M1NdCxSz6_lt5XytqBQ7VbWwy6ZmaRZpsGa/s1600/Bra+strap2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4p1BXRsGbnmDL8kMJSeIdAKIkpn-u1HwfcC7JLa0rJ_3aGVYJuFkDIbPZFw_faefItz39swOebGqwJtNLyf0Y31aAi5sUgvxJxRox-tcd9M1NdCxSz6_lt5XytqBQ7VbWwy6ZmaRZpsGa/s320/Bra+strap2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Karen needed a wee bit of help with a wardrobe malfunction!)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you're concerned about being the centre of attention, just keep your focus on your partner. I never have couples with their backs to their guests as you often see in church because that's to do with facing the altar and being married in the eyes of god. Most couples who choose a humanist ceremony want to involve their guests and facing them rather than turning your back on them is one way to do that. But if you're nervous about it, you can stand either side of me, but turn towards each other. Or you can stand together for the whole ceremony with both of you on one side of me, so that you can hold hands and support each other (I'm not suggesting that either of you might keel over of course!)</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV_8WDzGsJuejNM2wHSoAgVrstrVDjR4cCiH54DlNZ1-v5fMij20tOR8ZpRRjYt6uZhsMf79a3VNahgaUbyyJnVYRCEa4fmIXfoHJOXDhqh8W4prP7ME84NB2eY3Q-EcGsLy_5ZGAX5o8y/s1600/side+by+side.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV_8WDzGsJuejNM2wHSoAgVrstrVDjR4cCiH54DlNZ1-v5fMij20tOR8ZpRRjYt6uZhsMf79a3VNahgaUbyyJnVYRCEa4fmIXfoHJOXDhqh8W4prP7ME84NB2eY3Q-EcGsLy_5ZGAX5o8y/s1600/side+by+side.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: center;">(photo by Seppi Preston at </span><a href="http://www.lighthousestudios.co.uk/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: center;" target="_blank">Lighthouse Studios</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: center;"> in Stirling)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
<ul><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
<li>I almost always have you standing together after the signing anyway (on the 'never come between a married couple' principle!), so that you're ready to walk back down the aisle together.</li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
</span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v8fx_kq4zt-huRhMGJr5sT5ub-jTEtebucCAJ5noh2kCsJrIWUW_X7S39hKKWGWIrPGNLQUS5OQUW6KMWLOdObQS1k5g1J1W2o1JygTOP-XarSYX8lATJZcdFbKioWJoMQaws1nTcPSW/s1600/Stand+Together+Toast+Photography.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v8fx_kq4zt-huRhMGJr5sT5ub-jTEtebucCAJ5noh2kCsJrIWUW_X7S39hKKWGWIrPGNLQUS5OQUW6KMWLOdObQS1k5g1J1W2o1JygTOP-XarSYX8lATJZcdFbKioWJoMQaws1nTcPSW/s320/Stand+Together+Toast+Photography.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Kev and Gem pictured at <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/doune/dounecastle/" target="_blank">Doune Castle</a> by Paul at <a href="http://toastphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Toast Photography</a>)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you don't want to say very much yourselves during the ceremony, don't worry because you don't have to. Your personal vows and promises can be phrased so that they're in the form of a question that I ask and you each say "I do" (or together "we will"). I usually phrase the legal declarations in a 'repeat after me' format and in that way I can guide you through them and take the pressure of you. And although I often use the term "solemnly and sincerely" in the legal declarations, we don't actually have to. The words "solemnly" sometimes trips people up and if you'd prefer not to say it, that's no problem at all!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Music can help if you're worried about awkward silences, for example during symbolic gestures such as the lighting of candles.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When I pronounce you husband and wife, I'll invite you to kiss and if you're nervous about public displays of affection, don't forget that practice makes perfect! I have been known to set homework by the way and on one occasion suggested that the bride drag her shy fiancé into Tescos a few times before the big day to kiss him in the middle of the frozen food aisle!</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbCKBNxVqmvMV6-ptYyXh9DDmUlEaMBJQ5wxQBeVFf2cETd5-kVwMDtxde4y3Q0iO85mk1pvtvwRM4dDpjFoYM6wYSerqiIFO8vda7z1MNde8XjFHOSVTys8jArs8swwhLnlXsYW4NxAM/s1600/The+kiss22.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbCKBNxVqmvMV6-ptYyXh9DDmUlEaMBJQ5wxQBeVFf2cETd5-kVwMDtxde4y3Q0iO85mk1pvtvwRM4dDpjFoYM6wYSerqiIFO8vda7z1MNde8XjFHOSVTys8jArs8swwhLnlXsYW4NxAM/s320/The+kiss22.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Lindsay and Phil didn't actually need any practice!)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When we get to the signing of the Marriage Schedule, some people worry about using a fountain pen and you can have a wee practice before the real thing. I'll also guide you carefully so that you sign in the right place.</span></li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXd7e73stUPOVTjJW44dqMiEoEKyIyESqQCoIpNAFdeRo-7mTR2kYTEwFPMlENzEimkPyeeZrCHcyeefb6Pg5jMqgOQ-PktADuaWYVegPI2OKpGmWgUKFJ6imBdyi5c9QYVDY6GHyth6B/s1600/signing+help2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXd7e73stUPOVTjJW44dqMiEoEKyIyESqQCoIpNAFdeRo-7mTR2kYTEwFPMlENzEimkPyeeZrCHcyeefb6Pg5jMqgOQ-PktADuaWYVegPI2OKpGmWgUKFJ6imBdyi5c9QYVDY6GHyth6B/s320/signing+help2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Making sure that you're signed, sealed and delivered!)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I hate the thought that any of my couples might see their wedding ceremony as an ordeal that they've got to get over before they move on to the party.</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNllFO_AsVRI73B5y5yNCGJfRmEZIE9Txc-UuDYm2h5HTwflzvpvV5l4X0XugDVEV1l8hj62EOH1fDbM4jGO3cNSUZtKTjel6Qr9V9uBPTVo9xXa2N-reoFKIT8TjIl8sbg6Qw1EjJnK5/s1600/celebrate+end.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuNllFO_AsVRI73B5y5yNCGJfRmEZIE9Txc-UuDYm2h5HTwflzvpvV5l4X0XugDVEV1l8hj62EOH1fDbM4jGO3cNSUZtKTjel6Qr9V9uBPTVo9xXa2N-reoFKIT8TjIl8sbg6Qw1EjJnK5/s320/celebrate+end.jpg" width="235" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Karen and Scott on their way to celebrate after their wedding at <a href="http://www.geanhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Gean House</a> in Alloa)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sure, you'll want to celebrate afterwards but in my book, the ceremony is part of the celebrations. So I'll do everything I can to help you to enjoy it and to guide, reassure and support you. And if all else fails, I'll just make you laugh! </span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Caishlan and Keiron enjoying a good laugh during their wedding ceremony)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(pic by <a href="http://www.alanpeebles.com/" target="_blank">Alan Peebles</a>)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Laughter helps to break the ice for everyone and I don't think I've ever conducted a wedding where there hasn't been something to laugh about! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> (</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Hayley gets the giggles during her marriage to Steven)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.stylishimages.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tom Collins</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And girls, if all else fails, we can always find some way of teasing the groom to make everyone laugh on the day!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Sarah and Michael at <a href="http://www.airthcastlehotel.com/" target="_blank">Airth Castle</a> by <a href="http://www.dukestudios.co.uk/" target="_blank">Duke Wedding Photographers</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">In fact I'm sorry guys, but grooms are often the brunt of a funny story or two on the day!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(photo by </span><a href="http://www.nadindunnigan-photography.co.uk/" style="font-size: x-small;" target="_blank">Nadin Dunnigan</a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">)</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There is often a welcome distraction too, such as this wee one who kept everyone entertained at the <a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie House</a> wedding of Rachael and Anthony:</span></li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(picture by Martin Pettinger) </span></td></tr>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">They say that music is the food of love - well I disagree, I reckon it's laughter!</span></li>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2x8tmrtyInnzSxp6U7_k9yrf5bEk_hcngXFggQ2_BEi8JCEn1M3EtqJ6Ik4585xeJAmIkkz1SHzA9fScLadlRtOMtpA_hDoOHiUELYvaJwe-yqvH_hdIhvUJQNGWTeK6f9bP6kgQoL3K/s1600/Laughs+by+Whyler.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs2x8tmrtyInnzSxp6U7_k9yrf5bEk_hcngXFggQ2_BEi8JCEn1M3EtqJ6Ik4585xeJAmIkkz1SHzA9fScLadlRtOMtpA_hDoOHiUELYvaJwe-yqvH_hdIhvUJQNGWTeK6f9bP6kgQoL3K/s320/Laughs+by+Whyler.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Birdeen and Carl have a good laugh at their <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/doune/dounecastle/" target="_blank">Doune Castle</a> wedding)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(picture by <a href="http://www.whylerphotos.com/" target="_blank">Whyler Photos</a>)</span></td></tr>
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Never forget the last bit of this lovely wedding well wishing will you?!</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.alicleary.com/" target="_blank">Ali Cleary</a>)</span></div>
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<i style="color: #29303b; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;">To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i></div>
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-11934796692965399562010-09-10T17:42:00.018+01:002020-05-24T10:02:25.115+01:00What advice do you have about incorporating music into the ceremony?<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The first thing to say is that anything goes! Well, almost! </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">Given that you've chosen to have a humanist ceremony, religious music (including a hymn) isn't suitable, but there are so many other options - classical, jazz, pop, rock, folk, you name it.......</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">You need music in 3 main parts of the ceremony - for the entry of the bride ('processional' music), during the signing of the Marriage Schedule and for the bride and groom to leave ('recessional' music). Think carefully about the mood you want to create during each part of the ceremony - for example, most people choose something light and reflective to accompany the signing of the Marriage Schedule (about 5 minutes of music is ideal, so 2 tracks is perfect), but then have something with more impact for the end of the ceremony - to make everyone smile and to get the party started! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I've had a few couple recently where the bride has chosen the song she wants to enter to and kept it a secret from the groom (hoping to get a tear out of him of course!) It's a great idea, especially if you girls are happy to let the guys choose the last track for your grand exit and keep that a secret from you! LOL!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Although music on a CD player or IPod is possible in most indoor venues, it isn't usually great outside because the sound is easily 'lost', especially if there's a breeze. Having said that, I have a Bose sound dock for my iPod that I'm happy to bring along on the day - it works off a battery and produces an excellent sound, even outdoors. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">But of course you can't beat live music! Lots of couples have a piper to play as the guests arrive and you might decide to be piped in and out of the ceremony too. The pipes could be a bit loud to accompany the signing, but you can always send your piper out of the room to play or away into the bushes (!) if you're outside, so that it's a bit quieter! There are of course lots of other choices, including a string quartet, a jazz band, a pianist, fiddle player, ceilidh band, harp or clarsach player or a singer. You can book musicians through agencies such as:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.wedding-music-scotland.com/" target="_blank">Wedding Music Scotland</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.entertainersagency.com/" target="_blank">Entertainers Agency</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.live-unlimited.co.uk/" target="_blank">Live Unlimited</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.reel-time.co.uk/corporate/Scottishevenings.html" target="_blank">Reel Time</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I also have numerous contact details for musicians happy to work in the central belt and they include: </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pipers:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/trossachspiper/?fref=ts" target="_blank">Callum Hall</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.pipinghotbagpipeservices.com/bagpiper-about.html" target="_blank">Kevin McLean</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.silverglenpiper.co.uk/author/monster/" target="_blank">Andrew Elliott</a></span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.piperstune.com/" target="_blank">Neil Bell</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.mackenziebagpiping.com/wedding-pipers-stirling/" target="_blank">Donald Mackenzie</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.pipingservices.com/" target="_blank">Piping Services</a> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.roddythepiper.com/" target="_blank">Roddy Deans</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.highlandpiper.org/index.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">John Mackintosh</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://scottishhighlandpiper.co.uk/about.html" target="_blank">Stewart</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Drew at <a href="https://www.thistlepipingcentralscotland.com/" target="_blank">thistlepipingcentralscotland</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.mackenziebagpiping.com/" target="_blank">Donald Mackenzie</a> (Glasgow based)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Keith at <a href="http://premierpipers.co.uk/" target="_blank">Premier Pipers</a> who cover the Glasgow, Loch Lomond and Stirling areas</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Jonny Graham <a href="http://jgrahampiper.com/" target="_blank">jgrahampiper.com</a></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Fiddle Players:</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoUI7kN2Qj6_v-eaZXrbxXpvIs2GibHh1UB-g-1Q7LILi7GYnBNJImYPIO1IkyL9iWhc8tjzJHPZ3wGlE9PgNiBsCr4BmsVhxPnSzq-hOAH05MCT2vJyQMjiFmTapkQGRG-oqW8HMcjZj/s1600/Musicians+Lorna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoUI7kN2Qj6_v-eaZXrbxXpvIs2GibHh1UB-g-1Q7LILi7GYnBNJImYPIO1IkyL9iWhc8tjzJHPZ3wGlE9PgNiBsCr4BmsVhxPnSzq-hOAH05MCT2vJyQMjiFmTapkQGRG-oqW8HMcjZj/s200/Musicians+Lorna.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Lorna Swan (pictured) who also plays the clarsach (<a href="http://www.wedding-music-scotland.com/ceilidh/reelale.html" target="_blank">Reel Ale Ceilidh Band</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.patsyseddon.com/" target="_blank">Patsy Seddon</a> who also plays the harp</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Ceilidh Bands:</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRvo5Dz59H7s8FyX9mB0HRO8dzHPYuaHNEvw66OUUP4KOEw5bTIduyCrAWQLo3saQjbmzV-XGYA04kFB31ZGllCT-VXUMoLj09G-7Hwqx3KOEn014Yq86doRk3CPWOzvn7KqWJ8wUUnbyY/s1600/Musicians+Gallivanters.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRvo5Dz59H7s8FyX9mB0HRO8dzHPYuaHNEvw66OUUP4KOEw5bTIduyCrAWQLo3saQjbmzV-XGYA04kFB31ZGllCT-VXUMoLj09G-7Hwqx3KOEn014Yq86doRk3CPWOzvn7KqWJ8wUUnbyY/s200/Musicians+Gallivanters.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.thegallivanters.com/" target="_blank">The Gallivanters</a> (pictured)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.darloch.co.uk/" target="_blank">Darloch Ceilidh Band</a> </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.wedding-music-scotland.com/ceilidh/reelale.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Reel Ale Ceilidh Band</span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.scottishceilidh-band.co.uk/index.html" target="_blank">Kinlochard Ceilidh Band</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.skelpitlug.com/" target="_blank">Skelpit Lug</a></span></div>
<a href="http://www.dramsceilidh.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Drams Ceilidh Band</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a band="" ceilidh="" href="http://www.skelpitlug.com/" lug="" skelpit=""></a></span><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifp89aQYRtxXsCZZzgG_D-a-knEfFC5u8ddq7uceMj-j-NtpiwJkX0MHy0mxPBoBjyZUJ-Kgeeqh-a9UmNqwbtnekfgOBdJn3ZwQTnQiwRwDl3Np4snW-KUhkVfzN2hd_hTvyI8vXzudc0/s1600/musician+Sarah+Hill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifp89aQYRtxXsCZZzgG_D-a-knEfFC5u8ddq7uceMj-j-NtpiwJkX0MHy0mxPBoBjyZUJ-Kgeeqh-a9UmNqwbtnekfgOBdJn3ZwQTnQiwRwDl3Np4snW-KUhkVfzN2hd_hTvyI8vXzudc0/s200/musician+Sarah+Hill.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.iainhood.com/" target="_blank">Iain Hood</a> who can also provide a lovely harp and flute duo </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.patricia-roberts.co.uk/Engagements.htm" target="_blank">Patricia Roberts</a> who also sings, beautifully...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.heatherdownie.co.uk/weddings-functions/" target="_blank">Heather Downie</a> who also sings, just as beautifully!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.paulinevallance.co.uk/" target="_blank">Pauline Vallance</a> ditto!</span></div>
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<a href="https://katherineharrison.me/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Katherine Harrison</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.karenmarshalsay.com/" target="_blank">Karen Marshalsay</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">sophieaskew@btinternet.com</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Strings:</span></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wpMgMrCRSM1ArvnbDeVuFD-Bs7LpVHJQXucUokESwYhLjAN3rgYQqAEoKFzS3DX8M8JKtufDJYQ6xfciJtYXlgdd2DIkYbUqVHpNK7LAU3HVNlfuZH6V-z3vt4sWRPWe232fSLJ0B7ZJ/s1600/Musicians+String+Quartet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4wpMgMrCRSM1ArvnbDeVuFD-Bs7LpVHJQXucUokESwYhLjAN3rgYQqAEoKFzS3DX8M8JKtufDJYQ6xfciJtYXlgdd2DIkYbUqVHpNK7LAU3HVNlfuZH6V-z3vt4sWRPWe232fSLJ0B7ZJ/s200/Musicians+String+Quartet.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.samasia.co.uk/" style="font-size: small;" target="_blank">Sa Masia</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.cairnstringquartet.com/" target="_blank">Cairn String Quartet</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.rhapsodystringquartet.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rhapsody String Quartet</a> (pictured)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.clevedenquartet.co.uk/" target="_blank">Cleveden Quartet</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=8572783787531813634&postID=1193479669296539956"></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.stringsaloudquartet.co.uk/" target="_blank">Strings Aloud</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://kordastringquartet.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Korda String Quartet</span></a></div>
<a href="http://www.stringquartetglasgow.co.uk/tag/capella-strings/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Capella Strings (who used to be Apollo Strings)</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.caspiatrio.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Caspia Trio</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.quartet.scot/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue; font-size: x-small;">The Quartet</span></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Organists/Pianists/keyboards:</span></b></div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=8572783787531813634&postID=1193479669296539956"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.aclassictouch.co.uk/" target="_blank">Jimmy O'Donnell</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.alexgrahampiano.co.uk/" target="_blank">Alex Graham</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.chrisconnelly.co.uk/" target="_blank">Chris Connelly</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">John Rankin at <a href="http://www.glasgowpianoman.com/" target="_blank">glasgowpianoman.com</a> (John sings and plays piano)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Andy at <a href="http://www.lucaspiano.co.uk/" target="_blank">Lucaspiano</a> also sings too</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.marcusford.com/" target="_blank">Marcus Ford</a> (who is also part of the wonderful <a href="http://www.ritztrio.com/" target="_blank">Ritz Trio</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.david-mckellar.co.uk/" target="_blank">David Mckellar</a> (David sings popular music covers as a solo musician and also plays in 'The Dawn Patrol' wedding band) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Jazz musicians</b>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6bDi3Lr9XeQULG50pmxB-cA60aQMiAXU7QCEpm40l6hJIXhyU5w8gZvUKv1D3KsyhPcGaV0Ksr9ktmQchX2-zXwQNav39mzyYnAI4MRqGTwb-aksuh5UbqJg9oOMqWwwRKCbubN9tkCmr/s1600/The+Ritz+Trio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6bDi3Lr9XeQULG50pmxB-cA60aQMiAXU7QCEpm40l6hJIXhyU5w8gZvUKv1D3KsyhPcGaV0Ksr9ktmQchX2-zXwQNav39mzyYnAI4MRqGTwb-aksuh5UbqJg9oOMqWwwRKCbubN9tkCmr/s200/The+Ritz+Trio.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.marcusford.com/solo-guitar-for-weddings/" target="_blank">Marcus Ford</a> who is a solo jazz guitarist and also part of:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.ritztrio.com/" target="_blank">The Ritz Trio</a> (pictured left, great guys, great musicians!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.neildrover.com/bands/TwoFiveOne.htm" target="_blank">Twofiveone Guitar Duo</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">Singers:</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.patricia-roberts.co.uk/" target="_blank">Patricia Roberts</a>, who sings traditional Scottish songs and also plays the clarsach</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.heatherdownie.co.uk/news/" target="_blank">Heather Downie</a> - like Patricia, Heather also accompanies herself on the clarsach</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.annelewis.co.uk/wedding.shtml" target="_blank">Anne Lewis</a></span></div>
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/LeonaCorio.Singer/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Leona Corio</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">And on the subject of singing, I can't! So if you're going to have everyone sing a song, don't rely on me to lead you. Seriously, just don't go there! (I'm only pretending in this pic of Cathy and Douglas getting married in the Perthshire hills above Comrie)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQA_iH80_gHsyPOBopfISvGmC57-U6cFjGq19lTsh4FDxtpdUlX_gF8ILglYLxmlCWAJ531N99fgnIPYJZrqf5MHBkZHvsi1yxIXpmacPY_LL1ablzWvL0wOKOx8Jn6Lg1BAm7Wa2ckk2W/s1600/Sing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQA_iH80_gHsyPOBopfISvGmC57-U6cFjGq19lTsh4FDxtpdUlX_gF8ILglYLxmlCWAJ531N99fgnIPYJZrqf5MHBkZHvsi1yxIXpmacPY_LL1ablzWvL0wOKOx8Jn6Lg1BAm7Wa2ckk2W/s320/Sing.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Communal sining can work well, but I reckon only if the following things are in place:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Someone who can really sing well to lead the song (not me then...)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Good accompaniament by musicians used to accompanying singers </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Enough guests (50+ I'd say) to really 'gie it laldy' for you (f you're not familiar with the Scots terminology, translated that means "to pull out all the stops and sing with great enthusiasm or gusto"!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">The words to the song need to be printed onto an Order of Ceremony for everyone</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">The song itself needs to be something meaningful to you - don't choose a song just to 'pad out' the ceremony - there's never any need to do that in a humanist wedding ceremony!</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Examples of songs that I think have worked well in wedding ceremonies in the past include both traditional folk songs and pop songs. The latter work best with the original CD track to sing along to, karaoke style, and these examples are pretty much guaranteed to get everyone laughing and singing:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'That's Amore' by Dean Martin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'When I'm 64' by the Beatles (or 'Love me do' or 'I wanna hold your hand')</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'500 Miles' by the fabulous Proclaimers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'I'm a Believer' by the Monkees </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Walking on sunshine' by Katrina and the Waves</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Bring me Sunshine' by Morecambe and Wise</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Cant Take my Eyes off you' by Andy Williams</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Take a Chance on Me' by Abba</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Love is in the air' by John Paul Young</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Happy Together' by The Turtles</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">'Wonderful World' (especially The Ramones version!)</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">One option is for a guest or guests to perform the song and then have everyone else join in with the chorus - this worked really well at a wedding recently when friends of the bride and groom took on the parts of Danny and Sandy to sing 'You're the One That I want' from Grease. Everyone was in stitches and I still laugh when I think about it now! This picture by <a href="http://www.weirphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Martin Weir</a> captures that moment perfectly:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5HL9ny1w2Uc3O6DPJnAXQbh4yKsoP268k9JDnxV4UHfanXEAwm0zir4cG3h7YcfCAZYQH5mzlHbph0I-bH95BY6f2l5KdXc372hHvP0edvNhRKrsK-aFaAGkruGCbtVYZJ1tsWzG1G_M/s1600/you%2527re+the+one+that+I+want2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji5HL9ny1w2Uc3O6DPJnAXQbh4yKsoP268k9JDnxV4UHfanXEAwm0zir4cG3h7YcfCAZYQH5mzlHbph0I-bH95BY6f2l5KdXc372hHvP0edvNhRKrsK-aFaAGkruGCbtVYZJ1tsWzG1G_M/s320/you%2527re+the+one+that+I+want2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Of course, more serious songs work well too, Scottish folk songs like 'Wild Mountain Thyme' or 'Mairi's Wedding' for example. Some of these songs are quite difficult to sing though and it's advisable to have a confident lead singer or a performer who will sing the verses and invite everyone else to join in with the chorus.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">There are by the way a number of classical songs in the 'Sharing the Future' booklet (available from the <a href="http://humanism.org.uk/store/ceremonies-books/" target="_blank">The British Humanist Association</a>) These have a more traditional and almost 'hymn like' feel to them, but with secular words of course. There is also a humanist version of 'All Things Bright and Beautiful' with "Mother Nature made them all" instead of "The Lord God etc..." Google it - you might like it and it's a nice compromise if you (or your family) want a traditional feel to the ceremony.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Music adds a very special element to a wedding ceremony and it's worth spending a bit of time choosing something that feels just right for you. Music is, after all, the food of love!</span></div>
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<i style="color: #29303b; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;">To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i></div>
Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-28188489119809777952010-07-27T14:57:00.031+01:002020-05-24T10:02:42.040+01:00Can you recommend a photographer or videographer?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCt9HzOGB968rRBdZHsfhqMMbOCg-9i9vv00UPjm3VX5alP-C47kMVpj60NJg8vOD7QmkIw4h0MsEVBzLsMFgNdBOCAZj493rpDCQNC0PW3uVzQvo01Zj2L88UhOCk9J2-MrrD4VoM6xA1/s1600/photo+by+me.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I'd hesitate to make a recommendation because choosing a wedding photographer is such a personal thing. It doesn't matter what I think anyway - the only important thing is the<span style="font-style: italic;"> you</span> feel comfortable with the style and approach of the person who'll be taking your wedding photographs. There are a lot of professionals to choose from and it's worth chatting to a few of them to discuss your ideas and to find out what they have to offer.<br />
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The<span style="font-weight: bold;"> photographers</span> I've worked with locally include:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">George Lammie at <a href="http://www.georgelammie.com/" target="_blank">George Lammie Photographs</a> in Alloa</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mike Cook at <a href="http://www.mcookphotography.co.uk/blog/" target="_blank">mcookphotography</a> in Falkirk</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Martin and Elaine Weir at <a href="http://www.weirphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Weir Photography</a> in Alloa</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.whylerphotos.com/" target="_blank">Whyler Photos</a> in Stirling</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Jennifer at <a href="http://www.jenniflowerweddings.com/" target="_blank">Jenniflower Weddings</a> in Stirling</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Emma Gray at <a href="http://emmagrayphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">emmagrayphotography</a> in Falkirk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bryan and Stacey <a href="http://www.picturesquebymrandmrsm.com/" target="_blank">Mr and Mrs M at Picturesque</a> in Falkirk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Rhoddy Stewart at <a href="http://www.rhoddystewartphotography.co.uk/index.php" target="_blank">Rhoddy Stewart Photography</a> in Falkirk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ashley Coombes at <a href="https://www.ashleycoombes.co.uk/" target="_blank">ashleycoombes.co.uk</a> in Gartmore near Stilring</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">John at </span><a href="http://www.corona-photographic.com/index.htm" target="_blank">Corona Photographic</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"> in Stirling</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Brian and Paula at </span><a href="http://www.crieffphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Crieff Photography</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kirsty at <a href="http://kirstywinfieldphotography.com/" target="_blank">kirstywinfieldphotography</a> in Stirling</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.stephenmccluskeyphotography.com/" target="_blank">Stephen McCluskey</a> in Stirling</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.abbieallardyce.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Abbie Allardyce</span></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> in Callander</span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Graham MacKay at <a href="http://www.grahammackay.co.uk/index.php" target="_blank">Graham Mackay Photography</a> in Cumbernauld</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Stewart Hislop at <a href="http://www.brightyellowphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Bright Yellow Photography</a> in Falkirk</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Aileen Stewart at <a href="http://www.aileenstewart.com/" target="_blank">aileenstewart.com</a> in Stirling</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Alastair Jolly at <a href="http://alastairjolly.com/" target="_blank">alastairjolly.com</a> in Falkirk</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">John Rae at <a href="http://www.johnraephotography.com/" target="_blank">John Rae</a> in Larbert</span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And not local to this area, but also great wedding photographers and usually happy to travel:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Trevor Wilson at <a href="http://www.silverphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Silver Photography</a> in Bishopton</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ryan and Herculine White at <a href="http://ryanwhitephotography.co.uk/gallery/wedding-photographer-edinburgh/" target="_blank">ryanwhitephotography</a> in Edinburgh</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lisa Clelland at <a href="http://richpictures.co.uk/home" target="_blank">Rich Pictures</a> in Glasgow</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Nadin Dunnegan at <a href="http://www.nadindunnigan-photography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nadin Dunnigan Photography</a> in West Lothian and Edinburgh</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lana at <a href="https://www.lanaevephotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">lanaevephotography</a> in Fife</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Suzanne Black at <a href="https://www.suzanneblackphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">suzanneblackphotography</a> in Fife</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Karen and Carly at <a href="http://www.heyesimages.co.uk/home/4591113335" target="_blank">heyesimages</a> in Renfrewshire</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Kirsty and Ross at <a href="http://www.imagineweddingimages.com/" target="_blank">imagineweddingimages</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bob Dougal at <a href="http://www.bobdougalphotography.com/" target="_blank">Bob Dougal Photography</a> in Kilsyth</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ewan and Chris at <a href="http://www.toptablephotography.com/" target="_blank">Top Table Photography</a> in Glasgow</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Neil Fordyce at <a href="http://www.neilfordyce.com/" target="_blank">Neil Fordyce Photography</a> in Dunkeld</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
Angus Forbes at <a href="http://www.amforbes.com/index.php" target="_blank">AM Forbes Photography</a> in Blairgowrie<br />Roslyn Gaunt at <a href="http://www.roslyngauntweddingphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">roslyngauntweddingphotography</a> in Edinburgh</span><br />
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Paul Walker at <a href="http://www.paulwalkerimages.co.uk/index.php" target="_blank">Paul Walker Images</a> in Ayrshire</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The <span style="font-weight: bold;">videographers</span> I've worked with include:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Iain Johnston at <a href="http://www.weddingvideoservices.co.uk/" target="_blank">Wedding Video Services</a> in Crieff</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Phil at <a href="http://solarweddings.com/" target="_blank">solarweddings</a> in West Lothian</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mike at <a href="http://www.rplweddings.com/" target="_blank">rplweddings</a> in Glasgow</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Simon Gillespie at <a href="http://cinematique.video/" target="_blank">cinematiquevideo</a> in Falkirk<br />
Allister and Elaine Gourlay at <a href="http://www.geewhizweddingfilms.co.uk/" target="_blank">Gee Whiz</a> in Glasgow<br />
Graham MacKay at <a href="http://www.dvdwed.com/" target="_blank">Graham's Digital Productions</a> in Glasgow<br />
Billy Graham at <a href="http://www.grahamvideo.co.uk/" target="_blank">Graham Video</a> in Edinburgh<br />
James Strange at <a href="http://www.strangeworx.co.uk/about.html" target="_blank">Strange Worx</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Andy Lenihan at <a href="http://www.glasgowweddingvideos.com/" target="_blank">Glasgow Wedding Videos</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Martin Trotter at <a href="http://www.astroproductions.co.uk/" target="_blank">Astro Productions</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sharp Focus at <a href="http://www.sharpfocusva.co.uk/" target="_blank">sharpfocusva.co.uk</a> in Alloa</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Brian Muldoon <a href="http://www.brianmuldoonphotography.com/" target="_blank">Brian Muldoon Photography</a> who now does wedding videos as well as photography<br />
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And don't forget that like most Celebrants, photographers and videographers are usually happy to travel, so don't let the fact that one isn't local put you off!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">By the way it is of course up to you what you want to do about your guests taking photos during the ceremony. Bear in mind that your professional photographer might have a view on this - many a lovely shot has been ruined by someone stepping right into the aisle with an Ipad!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRG_CstCGXBSbH22qvB_vCrWHkiNWWV1mD1i6tyov5LBaOkbw_eIdR560wnovHwqguRQPLXB7EpTuBaFTBPKrCjex0T_1PXOwqHXgFCI-Ff-qtjfuDuX_KXhk0UHhSVtTtpH3DqHv8VjtO/s1600/photography22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRG_CstCGXBSbH22qvB_vCrWHkiNWWV1mD1i6tyov5LBaOkbw_eIdR560wnovHwqguRQPLXB7EpTuBaFTBPKrCjex0T_1PXOwqHXgFCI-Ff-qtjfuDuX_KXhk0UHhSVtTtpH3DqHv8VjtO/s1600/photography22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I usually make an announcement about photos (and about mobile phones) before the ceremony begins. Some couples are quite happy to have their guests snap away throughout the whole ceremony, some prefer to restrict pictures until after the signing and others would prefer their guests not to take any at all. It's up to you! By the way, I can also make your guests promise not to upload any pics to FaceBook (or Twitter, SnapChat, Instagram etc..) before the end of the ceremony (believe me, that's happened!) or until the following day. If you're happy for them to snap away, I can also ask everyone to upload their pictures to your wedding app if you have one. Basically, whatever you want me to say, I'll say it..... including the following when I pronounce you husband and wife:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsld2gp3JRh38zRTkaPw3G_CCN7d3qNZawf0EEJIpKqm_uGEJgpuYWgHw-HU1cdabR6cmhO4Vw7l7Dw4XUZmrPXXzKt7cW5HS5HHaqITp_XLFe5BJnhXLbI_2revwsqJpBtnjNdvhPm0n/s1600/13876499211010366626capture+bride+and+groom-md.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsld2gp3JRh38zRTkaPw3G_CCN7d3qNZawf0EEJIpKqm_uGEJgpuYWgHw-HU1cdabR6cmhO4Vw7l7Dw4XUZmrPXXzKt7cW5HS5HHaqITp_XLFe5BJnhXLbI_2revwsqJpBtnjNdvhPm0n/s200/13876499211010366626capture+bride+and+groom-md.png" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>"You may now update your Facebook status!"</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCy3oDyX5N7Hti4vUCt5Q3po5FO2B7XWeFO8w6q3I2nkxOe417QiMiyf12yPQHcbmDu-yM3RiUXFZE1xkiL5-RKveBWecy6ewlDyfa_s-ebUZAqhcJ3pakVysrPSPy2UOYMBQbs3MioJz/s1600/Photos2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCy3oDyX5N7Hti4vUCt5Q3po5FO2B7XWeFO8w6q3I2nkxOe417QiMiyf12yPQHcbmDu-yM3RiUXFZE1xkiL5-RKveBWecy6ewlDyfa_s-ebUZAqhcJ3pakVysrPSPy2UOYMBQbs3MioJz/s320/Photos2.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And by the way, I always take a pic or two of my own after the ceremony because I like to have a photo of every couple I marry - it's a lovely keepsake and a very special reminder of the small part I've played in your big day!
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCt9HzOGB968rRBdZHsfhqMMbOCg-9i9vv00UPjm3VX5alP-C47kMVpj60NJg8vOD7QmkIw4h0MsEVBzLsMFgNdBOCAZj493rpDCQNC0PW3uVzQvo01Zj2L88UhOCk9J2-MrrD4VoM6xA1/s1600/photo+by+me.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCt9HzOGB968rRBdZHsfhqMMbOCg-9i9vv00UPjm3VX5alP-C47kMVpj60NJg8vOD7QmkIw4h0MsEVBzLsMFgNdBOCAZj493rpDCQNC0PW3uVzQvo01Zj2L88UhOCk9J2-MrrD4VoM6xA1/s200/photo+by+me.jpg" width="133" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(pic by <a href="http://www.keathbankphotography.tv/" target="_blank">Keath Bank Photography</a>)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Incidentally, in terms of what I wear, I always try to match your wedding colours if I can - or at least to blend and tone rather than clash! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Pics, in order, by <a href="http://jennibrowne.com/" target="_blank">Jenni Browne</a>, <a href="http://www.ramsdenphotography.co.uk/wedding/" target="_blank">Ramsden Photography</a>, <a href="http://www.whylerphotos.com/" target="_blank">Whyler Photos</a> and <a href="http://www.crieffphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Crieff Photography</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">While we're on the subject of photos and videos, I've sometimes had couples set up a Skype or FaceTime link on their big day so that guests who can't make it can watch the ceremony live. As with videos and photos, I'm quite happy with that - and I usually have a wee chat with whoever is watching from Canada or Australia or where ever!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And there's nothing wrong with a bit of selfie fun either! </span><br />
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<i style="color: #29303b; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;">To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i></div>
Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-68852615149413760332009-09-19T11:13:00.025+01:002020-06-29T22:23:23.180+01:00Do you have any advice about the exchange of rings?<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><u><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyI4aTce3p9hLssDApdjak5eiizXAvqWe5Gx5u7nU7Ky4LFRo-a6fzZImMTHOcE4_aHBc7JFxEMxujepyYa7DVGEwRRBF_mGPuBVsKBpyzAePmupqjUrOUG_SOA4CBTck4eRiG1rjFyZv/s1600-h/Rings2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383496431547469298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSyI4aTce3p9hLssDApdjak5eiizXAvqWe5Gx5u7nU7Ky4LFRo-a6fzZImMTHOcE4_aHBc7JFxEMxujepyYa7DVGEwRRBF_mGPuBVsKBpyzAePmupqjUrOUG_SOA4CBTck4eRiG1rjFyZv/s320/Rings2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 229px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by William McLaughlin)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Most couples choose to exchange rings on their wedding day and there are a few things to bear in mind for this important element of the ceremony:</span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The first thing is to remember to bring the rings on the day! I've never had this happen yet, though it was a close call once when the Best Man 'temporarily mislaid' them. We were fortunate that the couple were getting married at the family home and he could dash inside to get them! The look on his face when he realised that he didn't have them was priceless!</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you have a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">particularly</span> nervous Best Man, advise him not to handle the rings in case he drops them! If they're in a box, he can simply open the box and present it to the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Celebrant</span> to take the rings out.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If your hands are hot, the ring can be a tight fit and you might <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">experience</span> some <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">difficulty</span> in getting it onto your partners finger. The first thing is not to worry about this - it happens to a lot of people and can actually be a sweet, funny and memorable part of the ceremony! Just take your time and it'll go on eventually! In this lovely wedding at <a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Roman Camp Hotel</a>, John decided to put his own ring on after Jan had been struggling with it for some time!</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI8LbRVo8JPDva3T050-Upf5gbfVgcEE8QJ5DHqRew2YsL61V5WyXBeoQmP0R9bM0A3iASTolHADkzB99cF8sS7UAUrZZ5vu9_yMguGfzr7Y8BKF9IfrRir8pgZwgMrIlI0EgPyCV3Ama/s1600/Rings+by+Trevor+rev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI8LbRVo8JPDva3T050-Upf5gbfVgcEE8QJ5DHqRew2YsL61V5WyXBeoQmP0R9bM0A3iASTolHADkzB99cF8sS7UAUrZZ5vu9_yMguGfzr7Y8BKF9IfrRir8pgZwgMrIlI0EgPyCV3Ama/s320/Rings+by+Trevor+rev.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(picture by the excellent Trevor Wilson at <a href="http://silverphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Silverphotography</a>)</span></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you want to be on the safe side, a little <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Vaseline</span> smeared around the inside of each ring <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">before</span> the ceremony can help, as can bending the knuckle as you put the ring on.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Although for most couples the exchange of the rings is a serious part of the ceremony, for others it can (sometimes inadvertently!) turn into a very amusing moment.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIvWUFX_zD6-8IpRgfIMnIWmR2LQP1JFpY9GXuf2OZlCz1cX695pS12_QuHuXxQA-KPDoxhWf51zdtt0wPK6IV0MMT_i_1euAb2OfHl1ExRc3f5SUL1lVGl0ezRaOaW_JGyC_oGOBudEa/s1600/fun+with+rings+by+Jenniflower2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIvWUFX_zD6-8IpRgfIMnIWmR2LQP1JFpY9GXuf2OZlCz1cX695pS12_QuHuXxQA-KPDoxhWf51zdtt0wPK6IV0MMT_i_1euAb2OfHl1ExRc3f5SUL1lVGl0ezRaOaW_JGyC_oGOBudEa/s1600/fun+with+rings+by+Jenniflower2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Lorna and Gavin having at laugh during the exchange of their rings, by <a href="http://www.jenniflowerweddings.com/" target="_blank">jenniflowerweddings</a>)</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You might want to think about whether you want the Celebrant to handle your rings or not. Personally I like to hold them for a moment and talk about the symbolism of the rings on your wedding day.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6dFnfTMxhmlQnizFYnpn4CpvG7J-dGe53GQ87YxnFp1IvgHp4nBiMD-FzbtApdP3K7Z1iaqV3kMXXSWzQXtGjJn32Ssnfa7sTJ5lqtlOhtq3dvT5vBW4rX0c5RH2-BpsXc8tjvF3TaVt/s1600/with+this+ring+by+Jen+Owens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX6dFnfTMxhmlQnizFYnpn4CpvG7J-dGe53GQ87YxnFp1IvgHp4nBiMD-FzbtApdP3K7Z1iaqV3kMXXSWzQXtGjJn32Ssnfa7sTJ5lqtlOhtq3dvT5vBW4rX0c5RH2-BpsXc8tjvF3TaVt/s320/with+this+ring+by+Jen+Owens.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"> (picture by another great professional wedding photographer, <a href="http://jenowensimages.com/" target="_blank">Jen Owens</a>)</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-aKqqGU5ND0-KO4KlntQ49VUp7CfJDuFpjIomTzN9HtpyFRiEp5ppg_8wiUM1HJC4lfpBQqeKrJ2Rfkp222nYYnEoDrpX-NUKW3Q6WS3XSqXejkmSw63Iz_unAVPtSbJn9CCcXBwGYtb/s1600/Rings+in+hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1-aKqqGU5ND0-KO4KlntQ49VUp7CfJDuFpjIomTzN9HtpyFRiEp5ppg_8wiUM1HJC4lfpBQqeKrJ2Rfkp222nYYnEoDrpX-NUKW3Q6WS3XSqXejkmSw63Iz_unAVPtSbJn9CCcXBwGYtb/s320/Rings+in+hand.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">I would then pass them to you to place on each others' finger, </span><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">whilst</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;"> repeating a few simple words such as:</span></li>
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<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">"Paul, I give you this ring as a symbol of our love and marriage"</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If only one of you is having a ring, one of you could say "I give you this ring...." and the other could say "I accept this ring..."</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could also consider having a wedding band 'warming'. This involves the rings (usually tied together with ribbon) being passed around all of your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">guests</span> in turn, for them to hold (and 'warm') for a moment of silent thought and well wishing for your marriage. Each person passes the rings on to the next <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">guest</span>, until everyone has held them. And then suitably 'warmed' by everyone, you can <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">exchange</span> them!</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383501909643978114" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCcyrRxi36ROr0N8QNqvqoAk4zop8YcS8tuTEXFNadw-KEd2SOjzGrUnt8uXvKU41Lw8t0vnm2TVIFNuCRuAVOGlgJUFvLnCYFmHi4A83F5o-Y1VjXbCR1gGJET7bM3_uYCzvW5j7LICb/s320/ring+warming.JPG" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOtigs6iGmAKzBA5PeB8TFEaoyAEVXBMgTqypzrAWdIjgJU9yBCnsVwMfFK38wXpg7Fu-QtuHiBQZ0BtkqAr9IeeIU97_-pMvtVCcskJ_akGgjm3yG0rYRJ4umcCgLXpQUUYHN8rLQMUu/s1600/ring+warming+by+Alan+Hutchinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOtigs6iGmAKzBA5PeB8TFEaoyAEVXBMgTqypzrAWdIjgJU9yBCnsVwMfFK38wXpg7Fu-QtuHiBQZ0BtkqAr9IeeIU97_-pMvtVCcskJ_akGgjm3yG0rYRJ4umcCgLXpQUUYHN8rLQMUu/s320/ring+warming+by+Alan+Hutchinson.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(picture by <a href="http://www.alanhutchison.co.uk/" target="_blank">Alan Hutchison</a>)</span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another thing to think about is what to do with your engagement ring and most brides transfer it to their right hand just before the ceremony and then move it back onto their left hand afterwards. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Many couples stick with tradition and decide to give the Best Man the job of keeping the rings safe during the ceremony, but you might want to consider asking someone else - a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">friend</span> or a member of each side of the family for example. If you have any children amongst your attendants, a Page Boy or Flower Girl could also be the ring bearer. This little ring bearer, Eve, was my youngest ever at just weeks old!</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0YIpv38JepNa3bfy2tyibFU8gJTU2mRG6bcG2Xb86BoNHkcpAg6sYzkvGkFG2aWqWznyLiXf_fAFBTCISDAYl9jYFL5I7ZZ3DsXttYnS3dyfXVyM_M1uocHjbSDRmFrmD639wembBl_K/s1600-h/Ring+bearer.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383496440384785154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg0YIpv38JepNa3bfy2tyibFU8gJTU2mRG6bcG2Xb86BoNHkcpAg6sYzkvGkFG2aWqWznyLiXf_fAFBTCISDAYl9jYFL5I7ZZ3DsXttYnS3dyfXVyM_M1uocHjbSDRmFrmD639wembBl_K/s320/Ring+bearer.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 212px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></span></a><br />
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ring cushions are often used and if you have one, it's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">essential</span> to tie the rings onto it so that they don't fall off if a wee one (or a big one come to that!) walks down the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">aisle</span> with them (and by the way, they will of course steal the show!) It's best to practice tying and untying them because you don't want them to be either too tight and difficult to get off, or too loose so that there's a danger of them slipping off!</span></li>
</ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU79NkW6QWD5P6UFas6T8eTFO0OxSA3BAXoPIvKKNb9K3oyA8xTtQdsoNGJ9BA4bmYkzEtb4k5tlZ13idJmw-9rXq6EbLzncC7hQcD4GmpAUwM4xZnJrNYwwdjiCTeM004IR0XMVvzNGDi/s1600-h/Ring+cushion2.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383497551839260258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU79NkW6QWD5P6UFas6T8eTFO0OxSA3BAXoPIvKKNb9K3oyA8xTtQdsoNGJ9BA4bmYkzEtb4k5tlZ13idJmw-9rXq6EbLzncC7hQcD4GmpAUwM4xZnJrNYwwdjiCTeM004IR0XMVvzNGDi/s320/Ring+cushion2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></span></a><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you have a wee Page Boy or Flower girl carrying the rings, you might want to consider a fun ring cushion such as this frog:</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIYXtyLpb0sIXllAjeA7U-mK_hOdBEJHe_p66mDSeDglC-LLYnvdsaBkWC9XbM5WDVFNDBN9XsrD9Un5jnccR924qD_SMF4e9_ToZ_loHpmzyrlstV_ZR5f_AgRni6Ta1pM8hN8n6nAq3k/s1600/froggy+ring+cushionrev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIYXtyLpb0sIXllAjeA7U-mK_hOdBEJHe_p66mDSeDglC-LLYnvdsaBkWC9XbM5WDVFNDBN9XsrD9Un5jnccR924qD_SMF4e9_ToZ_loHpmzyrlstV_ZR5f_AgRni6Ta1pM8hN8n6nAq3k/s320/froggy+ring+cushionrev.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(well I think it was a frog anyway!)</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For something more natural and rustic, this little nest (you can get them online) was a lovely way for a flower girl to carry the rings:</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ29KV852VUzSCNO1QdQ_KrHrMwsblerFtzYoFJzfomdckVg261-f0iCr-aDiTN0WNMEaOu0HP9PAsYAQDFuL5zYOZFJJQkueXWmpzzWIHC3uJojssuJn_tdaBtzYJyMaKsv2u5p8V5gD1/s1600/nest+for+rings2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ29KV852VUzSCNO1QdQ_KrHrMwsblerFtzYoFJzfomdckVg261-f0iCr-aDiTN0WNMEaOu0HP9PAsYAQDFuL5zYOZFJJQkueXWmpzzWIHC3uJojssuJn_tdaBtzYJyMaKsv2u5p8V5gD1/s320/nest+for+rings2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On the subject of involving children, at one wedding, the page boys gave everyone a surprise because when they were asked to step forward with the rings, they came to the front and solemnly opened their boxes.....to reveal a Haribo gummy ring in each one! Fortunately the best man had the real rings and once we'd had a good laugh, we let the boys eat the gummy ones!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">They say that you should never work with kids or animals, but I don't agree! If you have a dog, why not consider having him or her as a ring bearer? There are of course only certain domestic pets you could do this with and sadly Mr Snuffles the guinea pig probably isn't going to cut it as a ring bearer! But if you have an obedient dog who isn't too excitable, why not consider it? These two (Teddy and Wills) even had little tartan pouches for the rings!</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxYe7In53RuaW5uDcHGobWmTEzB-AzcL3YXJxwmRajmbU50vnxuRyA93wrBcPG9rvQf6k9p8G2jrBZ4xxAeaUHnr_CNAaRKPBakotm1fpZYSCZqQyyq84CINqEJmCG4EOiB-HqcB7kAEJ/s1600-h/Dogs.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383495484231027986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCxYe7In53RuaW5uDcHGobWmTEzB-AzcL3YXJxwmRajmbU50vnxuRyA93wrBcPG9rvQf6k9p8G2jrBZ4xxAeaUHnr_CNAaRKPBakotm1fpZYSCZqQyyq84CINqEJmCG4EOiB-HqcB7kAEJ/s320/Dogs.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 225px;" /></a>And Claire and Gavin's lovely dog, Bigsby was so well behaved during their ceremony at <a href="http://www.loch-lomond.co.uk/welcome.aspx" target="_blank">The Lodge on Loch Lomond</a> in 2009. Despite being surrounded by 100 guests, he was calm and impeccably behaved throughout - not to mention seriously cute!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQd2AkqjYsSkLiAsxcOKpxSpDymzFjaV0WFhmctQN6s57ImXpkv7ibpGOi6prCANY5bD1nPvRVzFiBznu73HwJb5VeHRbivqR06JRLkUdNYH4F0OZvbN4Wz5LmVL8mu-GdpRIPhRD2UP4/s1600/Ring+Bearer+Bigsby.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498541560196052146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQd2AkqjYsSkLiAsxcOKpxSpDymzFjaV0WFhmctQN6s57ImXpkv7ibpGOi6prCANY5bD1nPvRVzFiBznu73HwJb5VeHRbivqR06JRLkUdNYH4F0OZvbN4Wz5LmVL8mu-GdpRIPhRD2UP4/s320/Ring+Bearer+Bigsby.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 230px;" /></a><br />As you can probably tell, I'm a huge dog lover, so here are another two. Meet pretty wee Corrie and big handsome Moose:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXi97cIm2WBKDHn-C6mVOr87qgUXkkVmx6PtBzHdjcsDsDuGP27qCrOSuxlMFv6q6hEzXihnPHQV3dv0jRHSfA6K9QUMraiLGfFrNku2Ne2lz8DdrBbAyvMu0uUIQ4jAsCvISnhaAxNVz/s1600/doggie+ring+bearer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXi97cIm2WBKDHn-C6mVOr87qgUXkkVmx6PtBzHdjcsDsDuGP27qCrOSuxlMFv6q6hEzXihnPHQV3dv0jRHSfA6K9QUMraiLGfFrNku2Ne2lz8DdrBbAyvMu0uUIQ4jAsCvISnhaAxNVz/s1600/doggie+ring+bearer.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaAxvh-v0hWagQC7oR-j22inoQuGbU9zl2CLZlajCMUcBF7r2N_Ma-VW57Ik2Zgpu-a145h7XiCVT9VBMWXQ8UygtuCcXDEtALZ9_LBlTiDKk3SXuhZ10OqHBR_phIf1AYBrB_Pz-HIHr/s1600/Moose22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaAxvh-v0hWagQC7oR-j22inoQuGbU9zl2CLZlajCMUcBF7r2N_Ma-VW57Ik2Zgpu-a145h7XiCVT9VBMWXQ8UygtuCcXDEtALZ9_LBlTiDKk3SXuhZ10OqHBR_phIf1AYBrB_Pz-HIHr/s1600/Moose22.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When Irene and Steve got married at the top of <a href="http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/fife-stirling/dumyat.shtml" target="_blank">Dumyat</a> near Stirling in 2007, their canine guests of honour almost outnumbered the human ones!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fo9myax8pJVwyWcLXMNC6lln8ZRqawpJ2-OctEm5V3MGBA38Oa62F4h53P26oHyKHKbhqBWsEQxn2nkCEDyGz02tjqD1Bm4HU380r4CHqKYTGHv19SCY_yo7g0LrAk7_n3kZ2lt_nSB8/s1600-h/Dogs2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383495472255677858" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9fo9myax8pJVwyWcLXMNC6lln8ZRqawpJ2-OctEm5V3MGBA38Oa62F4h53P26oHyKHKbhqBWsEQxn2nkCEDyGz02tjqD1Bm4HU380r4CHqKYTGHv19SCY_yo7g0LrAk7_n3kZ2lt_nSB8/s320/Dogs2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>I've even had a horse attend a wedding, when Lorna and Vince were married at the now sadly closed Solsgirth House:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaSTk7kxGJeOUTZEPhzmAw2dMSdRw5ARd8xmBgZxHVpchHS0wGDqqqW0ou4t1UbY1Z-DgOS3coyePn9Dhzci1dKFvjvPAhGspnCDz8KtcUSnyLwXtHT_UWdg9LgGw674F5BFpv1LiQY9g/s1600-h/horse.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383495486128343906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaSTk7kxGJeOUTZEPhzmAw2dMSdRw5ARd8xmBgZxHVpchHS0wGDqqqW0ou4t1UbY1Z-DgOS3coyePn9Dhzci1dKFvjvPAhGspnCDz8KtcUSnyLwXtHT_UWdg9LgGw674F5BFpv1LiQY9g/s320/horse.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
Anyway, I digress! If you have no-one to be a ring bearer or would prefer to hand them to your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Celebrant</span> before the ceremony, that's no problem. I usually put them into a nice dish, a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quaich" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">quaich</span></a> or a heart shaped wooden bowl until we need them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwdtudgL1pYF0-GRd18jC377bGlQGZQO0ok59fYTJ5TejFnSMab8RpqtceimbAsUzKyAitElDbhQLe5JqSm4vpWqjTDQQhukNoaBK1So4Yv5QEtV1b0JHHdbXR2K8HSWjFTGl0vVvZcD-/s1600/Sean+and+Viv+wedding+rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbwdtudgL1pYF0-GRd18jC377bGlQGZQO0ok59fYTJ5TejFnSMab8RpqtceimbAsUzKyAitElDbhQLe5JqSm4vpWqjTDQQhukNoaBK1So4Yv5QEtV1b0JHHdbXR2K8HSWjFTGl0vVvZcD-/s200/Sean+and+Viv+wedding+rings.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXx1xkxGpwHMzC-Qc_bFGxNsjsgFwV6p1R9bSz1hU3lEFVgj2IhJGOEadhkwcM6Gkf6z4_nMAvzRFTWsvJZHKqt8cEv_2sP1pCTfIdwopGEJa2hGgrefjNI3kKDk47Vb64Hs8Bp0yak_a/s1600/Rings+dish.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHXx1xkxGpwHMzC-Qc_bFGxNsjsgFwV6p1R9bSz1hU3lEFVgj2IhJGOEadhkwcM6Gkf6z4_nMAvzRFTWsvJZHKqt8cEv_2sP1pCTfIdwopGEJa2hGgrefjNI3kKDk47Vb64Hs8Bp0yak_a/s200/Rings+dish.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Of course, you don't have to exchange wedding rings at all and sometimes only the bride (or groom) will have a ring. You might decide to exchange something else instead - a lovely fob watch for example:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v6Ba_0wH8k6AbqKOBQffXuz1wktEEEC6wDClwgEl5R7NJssVeIbzBZM3m74hCL069RYs0ZukJIIwhB_nSenzZU70XB3T8t42UxJSIXHM2nvY7fQgLmvpHVwxNfu5f1spuRabs8vbdFSC/s1600-h/Watch.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383498709936048450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1v6Ba_0wH8k6AbqKOBQffXuz1wktEEEC6wDClwgEl5R7NJssVeIbzBZM3m74hCL069RYs0ZukJIIwhB_nSenzZU70XB3T8t42UxJSIXHM2nvY7fQgLmvpHVwxNfu5f1spuRabs8vbdFSC/s320/Watch.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 231px;" /></a><br />
Or a traditional Scottish <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luckenbooth_brooch" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">luckenbooth</span> brooch</a>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Luckenbooth</span> brooches are usually in the form of intertwined hearts and were traditionally given by the groom to the bride on their wedding day. They date back to the 16<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span> century and were originally sold from locked booths (hence '<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">luckenbooth</span>') around St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh. This style, with the letter M and a crown, were called Mary's <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Brooches</span>, so called after Mary Queen of Scots was presented with one by her husband Lord <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Darnley</span>. They have become a symbol of Scottish tradition, love and good luck.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GoRf0X2RvO3cE8pqmSYUmWrbasMQvyyTXTQbl_Oe6ZBKT0GnSZrKN_OhJ5I9UiNtQq3zKv3XIhvvv1qa8EfJ8pulfOSM_8Y4e_zAE71lgQX4KDoEWZYoyRyzrreGz7kSakHgF09Di14d/s1600-h/Luckenbooth.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383498717816883266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6GoRf0X2RvO3cE8pqmSYUmWrbasMQvyyTXTQbl_Oe6ZBKT0GnSZrKN_OhJ5I9UiNtQq3zKv3XIhvvv1qa8EfJ8pulfOSM_8Y4e_zAE71lgQX4KDoEWZYoyRyzrreGz7kSakHgF09Di14d/s320/Luckenbooth.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 236px;" /></a><br />
Whatever you decide to exchange will have huge significance for you, both on the day and afterwards - a lasting reminder of the happiness you felt on your wedding day......<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFKZKC2SqT1rybeGBjs8Z84svDhE620jlTRienyqGUBEZzhSZWW5MiH9vAvkQeajnBm34j5otcEpxBoroqo37sCt8nl78VnM1CXgCGs_uMpttroTNDSBG95l_xFiAlfksMx6_ToKTaYiz/s1600-h/Rings+3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383496453171994626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUFKZKC2SqT1rybeGBjs8Z84svDhE620jlTRienyqGUBEZzhSZWW5MiH9vAvkQeajnBm34j5otcEpxBoroqo37sCt8nl78VnM1CXgCGs_uMpttroTNDSBG95l_xFiAlfksMx6_ToKTaYiz/s320/Rings+3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a></span><b style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></b><br />
<i style="color: #29303b; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700; text-align: start;">To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i></div>
Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-54872226642138760682009-09-17T16:14:00.035+01:002020-05-24T10:03:32.492+01:00Can we get married in a Castle?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga__bK18nGbXC5BIsWzmolFoNQi80gBPgu61h2A5drzwg4rRS1bsbsduXBiKJWXtXiWF7ojnw1I6WWepuPrKsQZZ9B97u_XDRAPbs3cmiXDGMbiqJQMUkY0GtCl1Zfsh8t35ZLexedZyaU/s320/Castle,+Doune.jpg" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Of course you can! A castle wedding can be really special, offering a wonderful sense of history, a romantic atmosphere and often a very picturesque setting. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are quite a few lovely castles in this area, of varying sizes and dating back to different times. It depends whether you want something medieval or modern, large or small, grand or rustic. The choice includes:</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Stirling Castle</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's very grand of course and wedding ceremonies can be accommodated in the Great Hall, the Chapel Royal or the Queen Anne Gardens.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.jillcherryporterphotography.com/" target="_blank">Jill Cherry Porter</a>)</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.planecastle.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Plane Castle</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This lovely little castle is situated near Airth and for a smaller wedding, it has a nice rustic and homely feel to it. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.culcreuch-castle-hotel.com/" target="_blank">Culcreuch Castle</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is in Fintry and one of my favourites. Lovely inside, lovely outside and lovely staff!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Glenskirlie Castle</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">At Banknock, they do weddings beautifully and it's another of my favourite places to work because of the excellent and very friendly staff. I'm sure they'll make you feel very welcome too - and by the way the food is superb!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.broomhallcastleweddings.com/" target="_blank">Broomhall Castle</a> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">at Menstrie is also a great venue and t</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">he staff (Gavin especially!) will really look after you! It has a very relaxed feel to it and I love conducting weddings there:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyoverview.htm?PropID=PL_092" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Doune Castle</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>STOP PRESS:</b> In 2</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">014 D</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">oune Castle was used as a location for the filming of the US TV series 'Outlander' and it may well be used again in the future. That means that there may be periods during the year when they unfortunately won't be able to accept wedding bookings, so please check with </span><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/contact_us" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">Historic Scotland</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I happen to be biased because I also live in the village, but I think that </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Doune</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> castle is very special for a wedding for a number of reasons:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's in a lovely setting for a start, but it's also very convenient for access because it's so close to Stirling and only 5 minutes off the end of the A9.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's an imposing building, but not too grand and formal</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjBiVkTfGJC8dN6GKH__g4rLfrgYAY3CK0FbEitbOx4ChL0YaIJ8zKbLgcgcLFnBcu-jACvTFiSmF1n9G_Rh52fQwfwj_XZZV_A7YIyvtjEH3Rh206HAEC5eVBG6_wNwH5-UCRNaY5Pzt/s1600-h/Doune+Castle+Great+Hall.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382754394795375474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjBiVkTfGJC8dN6GKH__g4rLfrgYAY3CK0FbEitbOx4ChL0YaIJ8zKbLgcgcLFnBcu-jACvTFiSmF1n9G_Rh52fQwfwj_XZZV_A7YIyvtjEH3Rh206HAEC5eVBG6_wNwH5-UCRNaY5Pzt/s320/Doune+Castle+Great+Hall.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 226px;" /></a></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Given that it dates back to the 14<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> century, it is remarkably well preserved and unlike some castles, it actually has a roof!<br />
</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are several different parts of the castle that are suitable for a wedding ceremony - the Great Hall, the Lord's Hall and the kitchen for example:</span></li>
</ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisuvdQCtbEzRRat3y4rUa8ydnJXV102VZczZM3WlrDubDFk7-NnqFQaPPDxdroBsghMiZ0KLgkPF3lC8qmq3IGWSo82Cw-7aYbbLezKjfcQdrDpy_kgWh9H1gJsn7A4AQoP9oujX9FceB/s1600/Doune+Castle1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisuvdQCtbEzRRat3y4rUa8ydnJXV102VZczZM3WlrDubDFk7-NnqFQaPPDxdroBsghMiZ0KLgkPF3lC8qmq3IGWSo82Cw-7aYbbLezKjfcQdrDpy_kgWh9H1gJsn7A4AQoP9oujX9FceB/s320/Doune+Castle1.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74ySGQon9vaBw2s_N-Y63zOm65asIDW3hMLL43mX4EzHCK3PytvRARDdYz0cC8pFTjpohNXYQ6t3m9fwdvbHUKDEl1uRxcdo5tIGWQBAr3Lyw_sRUuHX9L2Nnpv3UH2XXD-r_H6nEA9vx/s1600/Doune+Castle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh74ySGQon9vaBw2s_N-Y63zOm65asIDW3hMLL43mX4EzHCK3PytvRARDdYz0cC8pFTjpohNXYQ6t3m9fwdvbHUKDEl1uRxcdo5tIGWQBAr3Lyw_sRUuHX9L2Nnpv3UH2XXD-r_H6nEA9vx/s200/Doune+Castle2.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Dou</span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ne</span> Castle, Great Hall)</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
<br />
</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5SAxsF5ekRXTxH_zGHQU6A-D7ileLS52FUqL5mUNgcVX4_B24eo-5YVr1jHSfireTxKr8Lqy1-G4FH8mj9Ky0alv0rDBOG-9WjKDYOsJrNkGTRNqmJU6BW78LswjhyId_q-viJ9gmTej/s1600/Doune+Castle+Lord%27s+Hall+by+Martin.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498514943354137234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5SAxsF5ekRXTxH_zGHQU6A-D7ileLS52FUqL5mUNgcVX4_B24eo-5YVr1jHSfireTxKr8Lqy1-G4FH8mj9Ky0alv0rDBOG-9WjKDYOsJrNkGTRNqmJU6BW78LswjhyId_q-viJ9gmTej/s320/Doune+Castle+Lord's+Hall+by+Martin.jpg" style="display: block; height: 213px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Doune Castle, Lord's Hall - photo by Martin Pettinger) </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_KU_G6cYNqiu0tvx8aIrJMr0cMsqF9owaXErh4Z4P_ehIG2F44EUZyd6P8IgDbatcpoTWZVANcmwwWYAGIlRuCcIifWzjKKwR2z8KZwfnqOMdKL3aLt0RPPaRmL_0aQYZRB5e4-yK1YC/s1600-h/Candles4.jpg" style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382753181204691842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7_KU_G6cYNqiu0tvx8aIrJMr0cMsqF9owaXErh4Z4P_ehIG2F44EUZyd6P8IgDbatcpoTWZVANcmwwWYAGIlRuCcIifWzjKKwR2z8KZwfnqOMdKL3aLt0RPPaRmL_0aQYZRB5e4-yK1YC/s320/Candles4.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">(<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Doune</span> Castle, kitchen)</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The courtyard outside is nicely sheltered and a great place for your photos afterwards</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUpmCZgmNbzoJhAjL67LplvXarKN1vv9RU7me9D50DlnLF5PQ_JsgikOyjQfIWxWvYHd7PPmG6mlKtKxnUx2efN1_HSMXMde4VOH6RuFsZ7MhZKVS2sT6heuS97jl09EMsnBKBKVL76lO2/s1600-h/Doune+Castle+12.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382752552091841298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUpmCZgmNbzoJhAjL67LplvXarKN1vv9RU7me9D50DlnLF5PQ_JsgikOyjQfIWxWvYHd7PPmG6mlKtKxnUx2efN1_HSMXMde4VOH6RuFsZ7MhZKVS2sT6heuS97jl09EMsnBKBKVL76lO2/s320/Doune+Castle+12.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And if the weather isn't so good (as if that would ever be the case in Scotland in the summer lol!) there are lots of lovely spots inside the castle for photos.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcZfXqGMbN3hwYphqn0oPVMDBNlRpIQF_e07xZdyHw4WWvTgbNWDBGvhymh5DV_dqKviV3UzBm1qOSFKq6yTVdBuKkjYio-2-D5324BUmwbOvYOIEYOOtXyz3iIDND4zjWXHXbfdk4VNs/s1600/Doune+Castle+signing+by+Martin.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498516576154384498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEcZfXqGMbN3hwYphqn0oPVMDBNlRpIQF_e07xZdyHw4WWvTgbNWDBGvhymh5DV_dqKviV3UzBm1qOSFKq6yTVdBuKkjYio-2-D5324BUmwbOvYOIEYOOtXyz3iIDND4zjWXHXbfdk4VNs/s320/Doune+Castle+signing+by+Martin.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 213px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxZB6bGTaktvid-vvRDjvVeOeafMOLaOdK6y3G5R9d18_JZmJbyrSkYSIqDQqSp4WNAXFnCsSk_CDgFwg8WeDlSAPdO4qBe6aUWer2Llb0ivw_0mrGs5D3XKtQgJBWwSdumJJIMF_C7qL/s1600/Doune+Castle+kitchen+by+Martin.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498516781820982626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzxZB6bGTaktvid-vvRDjvVeOeafMOLaOdK6y3G5R9d18_JZmJbyrSkYSIqDQqSp4WNAXFnCsSk_CDgFwg8WeDlSAPdO4qBe6aUWer2Llb0ivw_0mrGs5D3XKtQgJBWwSdumJJIMF_C7qL/s320/Doune+Castle+kitchen+by+Martin.jpg" style="display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 214px;" /></a> </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Pictures by Martin Pettinger)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmnTCAqwfyZS4Ap6iS6zcah3IIfjqXHv2Bu7NF22ZSrtLVEiBKa-HZaPYoVidO6z39ClGBbNAtALpvtn3n-M6cNjVjIOHS1Jun8_iyjR69W_nqSdriJBA5sHkhCXyjM_C6RJDHFi2IcZP/s1600/Doune+Castle+by+Jen+Owens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGmnTCAqwfyZS4Ap6iS6zcah3IIfjqXHv2Bu7NF22ZSrtLVEiBKa-HZaPYoVidO6z39ClGBbNAtALpvtn3n-M6cNjVjIOHS1Jun8_iyjR69W_nqSdriJBA5sHkhCXyjM_C6RJDHFi2IcZP/s320/Doune+Castle+by+Jen+Owens.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(picture by <a href="http://jenowensimages.com/" target="_blank">Jen Owens</a>)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br />
</span></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Inside the castle feels really special - it's cool, tranquil and atmospheric</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">acoustics</span> for live music (piper, fiddle or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">clarsach</span> in <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">particular</span>) are wonderful<br />
</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The wonderful Historic Scotland staff who run the castle are always obliging and helpful</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For those of you out there who are Monty Python fans, much of the film, 'The Holy Grail' was filmed at the castle! That connection just adds another element of fun to your day - you never know, you might hear the clop of horses hooves during your ceremony! Don't worry if you do because it'll just be the tourists borrowing the coconut shells from the shop to re-enact scenes from the film! </span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEIMS3-rsNeuioUxhBHcD-LkEYbdGPHBGIR-BRUKhWiRSHUe3Ok21RJeAQr2PORZ6cuMgJfJvIL1utzTuqoS1w0o3K9m4qnlzzDlXSvmVxFnPF1kOSY0cFUaj4WiWbSDJIW9FvS0y9ayU/s1600-h/Doune+Castle11.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382751813099588690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwEIMS3-rsNeuioUxhBHcD-LkEYbdGPHBGIR-BRUKhWiRSHUe3Ok21RJeAQr2PORZ6cuMgJfJvIL1utzTuqoS1w0o3K9m4qnlzzDlXSvmVxFnPF1kOSY0cFUaj4WiWbSDJIW9FvS0y9ayU/s320/Doune+Castle11.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
There are a few disadvantages, as there are with any venue: </span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Unlike at <a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyoverview.htm?PropID=PL_275" target="_blank">Stirling Castle</a>, you can't have your reception there, though you can serve drinks afterwards<br />
</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There's a cobbled path up to the castle and then steps (now renovated) to get into the Great Hall, so any elderly guests or those in stilettos need to take extra care. </span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXC-tG6zkKNi6yiVaqujNW2OTejGukvyNaC2mam5eEDjo9vpUkJ21tSgDwAEd3Kdzk_HMN5hFFUvI-qSe3ln8-K42h8aKKaBV1zax_20pJOVlRSx3MLpnE5CCoOxuP_bw9zmDGxhY3JAly/s1600-h/Doune+Castle+8.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382754041162158498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXC-tG6zkKNi6yiVaqujNW2OTejGukvyNaC2mam5eEDjo9vpUkJ21tSgDwAEd3Kdzk_HMN5hFFUvI-qSe3ln8-K42h8aKKaBV1zax_20pJOVlRSx3MLpnE5CCoOxuP_bw9zmDGxhY3JAly/s320/Doune+Castle+8.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: justify;">
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There will be other visitors wandering around the castle (though the staff always make sure that the ceremony itself is undisturbed and they do it really well - I've never had a problem!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As with other Historic Scotland properties, candles are sadly now banned, but as this will prevent damage to precious stonework and antique furnishings, you can understand why. <br />
</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I really can't think of any other disadvantages! It's a great place to get married and a great place for me as a Marriage Celebrant to conduct ceremonies. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Other Castles in the area include:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyoverview.htm?PropID=pl_058" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">Castle Campbell</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">, Dollar</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ia6mvUhdD3QTsqD71YGPSxXMPTvBjs5Qn32acb4p0qYUaWekqvjXJet1X_QxDlP_RDSf5szdRXGuBKMQvpObTu8SXHmQa4K-AS-cEaksnkmcCH8Aw3i_PZHyx9jFqYPP6QLEy6HeLWO5/s1600/Castle+Campbell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ia6mvUhdD3QTsqD71YGPSxXMPTvBjs5Qn32acb4p0qYUaWekqvjXJet1X_QxDlP_RDSf5szdRXGuBKMQvpObTu8SXHmQa4K-AS-cEaksnkmcCH8Aw3i_PZHyx9jFqYPP6QLEy6HeLWO5/s1600/Castle+Campbell.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.airthcastlehotel.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Airth Castle</span></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBQzd5I5XEDeC8cEo3h0OtQwM3B4Xvh9edVh4Zp28l94Ra6owK3Q3Q4VYE4c7d56AaTkfTXbd34RUxTWSvu3yodx_oFX-SudXmgf-3LRQBRJKq2_5kqEodtwIIm0UCYd1qybuiMJhXQNAp/s1600/Airth+Castle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBQzd5I5XEDeC8cEo3h0OtQwM3B4Xvh9edVh4Zp28l94Ra6owK3Q3Q4VYE4c7d56AaTkfTXbd34RUxTWSvu3yodx_oFX-SudXmgf-3LRQBRJKq2_5kqEodtwIIm0UCYd1qybuiMJhXQNAp/s1600/Airth+Castle.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
<br />
If you decide to book the castle for your big day, you might want to consider the following local venues for your reception afterwards:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
<a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Roman Camp Hotel</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Callander</span><br />
<a href="http://www.dunblanehydrohotel.com/" target="_blank">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Dunblane</span> Hydro</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://victoriahalldunblane.com/" target="_blank">Victoria Hall Dunblane</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.oldchurcheshouse.com/" target="_blank">Old Churches House</a> in Dunblane<br />
<a href="http://www.dunmarhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Dunmar</span></a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Alloa</span><br />
<a href="http://www.royal-stirling.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Royal Hotel</a> at Bridge of Allan<br />
<a href="http://www.parklodge.net/" target="_blank">The Park Lodge</a> in Stirling<br /><a href="http://www.pumahotels.co.uk/hotels/stirling-highland-hotel/" target="_blank">The Stirling Highland Hotel</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thegoldenlionstirling.com/" target="_blank">The Golden Lion Hotel</a>, Stirling<br /><a href="http://alberthalls.stirling.gov.uk/" target="_blank">The Albert Halls</a>, Stirling</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.oldchurcheshouse.com/" target="_blank">Old Churches House, Dunblane</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <br />
There are local pubs, hotels and halls that would be suitable for a smaller reception too. And if you're looking for accommodation for you or your guests, there are plenty of B&<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Bs</span> around. Try:<br />
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<a href="http://www.glenardochhouse.com/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Glenardoch</span> House</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Doune</span><br />
<a href="http://www.thewoodsidedoune.co.uk/" target="_blank">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Woodside</span> Hotel</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Doune</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error"><a href="http://www.redlion-doune.com/" target="_blank">The Red Lion</a> in Doune</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bed-and-breakfast-doune-scotland.com/" target="_blank">The Stable</a> in Doune </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.mackeanstonhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Mackeanston House</a> a couple of miles outside the village<br />
<a href="http://www.hillview-cottage.com/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Hillview</span> Cottage</a> a mile or so outside the village<br />
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There are quite a few lovely self catering cottages and houses in the area too. For example:<br />
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<a href="http://www.lochend-chalets.com/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Lochend</span> Chalets</a> at the Lake of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Menteith</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="http://www.kilbrydecastle.com/accommodation.php" target="_blank">Kilbryde Castle</a> near Dunblane</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.cardrossestate.com/" target="_blank">The Cardross Estate holiday cottages</a> near Port of </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Menteith</span><br />
<span class="blsp-spelling-error" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://netherglenny.com/" target="_blank">Nether Glenny Cottages, Port of Menteith</a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And if you fancy somewhere a bit bigger to accommodate a group of friends and family, try:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.newholme.co.uk/" target="_blank">Newholme House</a> in Stirling (accommodates 10-12)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.burnsidehouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Burnside House</a> at Deanston (accommodates 8)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/BuildingDetails/Overview/72/Gargunnock_House" target="_blank">Gargunnock House</a> in Gargunnock (where else?!) which is owned by the Landmark Trust (accommodates 16)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.planecastle.co.uk/" target="_blank">Plane Castle</a> by Airth (accommodates 18)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.altskeith.com/index.html" target="_blank">Altskeith House</a> at Kinlochard (accommodates 22)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is a lovely area to stay in and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">Doune</span> is a very central location for exploring the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Trossachs. </span></span><br />
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-35447328511883136432009-09-17T08:59:00.029+01:002020-05-24T10:03:52.412+01:00Can we get married on an island or on a loch?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeR1zq9nIiZfgWPordLYp217s9XXwe-wiTistgm9wHKTzhV5jA3LOOot5OOTkqhQDcYqq9eADR2jxBR6CGJ-joq5IVmz9K2IQws0AJYkVwjeMEZwSZ6nHVssDjbGr6yve-qRQu6Y_eKH4/s1600/Kinlochard+green2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeR1zq9nIiZfgWPordLYp217s9XXwe-wiTistgm9wHKTzhV5jA3LOOot5OOTkqhQDcYqq9eADR2jxBR6CGJ-joq5IVmz9K2IQws0AJYkVwjeMEZwSZ6nHVssDjbGr6yve-qRQu6Y_eKH4/s1600/Kinlochard+green2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Lesley and Rupert at Kinlochard)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The short answer is yes, of course! You don't have to be on the Scottish mainland to have a legal humanist marriage - as long as the island is Scottish, that's fine. Theoretically, you could even get married on <a href="http://www.kilda.org.uk/" target="_blank">St. Kilda</a> if you wanted to! If it was possible to arrange the practicalities anyway - it is Scotland's most remote island and very difficult to get to - you'd have to charter a boat and get special permission from <a href="http://www.nts.org.uk/Home/" target="_blank">The National Trust for Scotland</a> who own it. Mind you, given that that's where I met my husband, I'd be bowled over if anyone ever asked me to conduct a marriage there!</span><br />
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You could of course travel to one of the many beautiful islands off the west coast for your wedding (Skye, Mull, Arran etc..) or up to the northern isles. In central Scotland, <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/aberfoyle/inchmahomepriory/index.html" target="_blank">Inchmahome Island</a> on the Lake of Menteith used to be available for weddings.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3xLeoEokhEbVw3JnPq5eLk8xFo6bW56B7dEwRLAxDPE9XlT8-hQt75fVp-Ph4nX0vJHME17J0P22QFScCh3aLHqwO9XGU2T_9J0ZS5hT8pXdEoAVAgiluO3j9_cF-tBlvKUpN_1mATTS/s1600/Inchmahome+from+over+the+water.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio3xLeoEokhEbVw3JnPq5eLk8xFo6bW56B7dEwRLAxDPE9XlT8-hQt75fVp-Ph4nX0vJHME17J0P22QFScCh3aLHqwO9XGU2T_9J0ZS5hT8pXdEoAVAgiluO3j9_cF-tBlvKUpN_1mATTS/s320/Inchmahome+from+over+the+water.JPG" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sadly Historic Scotland, who own it, decided in late 2011 to ban weddings there. As far as I know, there would be nothing to stop you having your wedding photos taken there after your marriage of course. If it's a small-ish wedding, you could have the ceremony outside at <a href="http://www.lake-hotel.com/" target="_blank">the Lake Hotel</a> at Port of Menteith, as the lovely Gillian and Grant did:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwzcc1T_DTGNQCyWAZsDTjrMrpVdN61vVveufS4jUxvhDzjNcoyDT7uGuVZztfMCJ1lSEp6h2fFAK-GMhIwvlF3vBHMZRlXZSTTrKFgyg0JRZgfSJ8WKvhX6v5h1FlbZK8y1MTDQaO04p/s1600/Lake+Mentieth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwzcc1T_DTGNQCyWAZsDTjrMrpVdN61vVveufS4jUxvhDzjNcoyDT7uGuVZztfMCJ1lSEp6h2fFAK-GMhIwvlF3vBHMZRlXZSTTrKFgyg0JRZgfSJ8WKvhX6v5h1FlbZK8y1MTDQaO04p/s320/Lake+Mentieth.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Photo by <a href="http://www.nadindunnigan-photography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Nadin Dunnigan</a>)</span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are stunning views from the hotel over the lake towards Inchmahome. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And the other option is to get married at the self catering lodges </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(<a href="http://www.lochend-chalets.com/" target="_blank">Lochend Chalets</a>) </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">on the shores of the lake, as Julie and Gordon did on Valentine's day a few years ago. Even with cold and misty weather, the lake was stunning (as was the bride!) (the groom wasn't bad either!):</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.dphotographic.co.uk/" target="_blank">Dave Hunt</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">Other islands in central Scotland you might consider are those on </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.incallander.co.uk/islands.htm" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Loch Lomond</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-align: justify;">.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;"> There are quite a few to choose from and they each have their own unique character:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.inchmurrin-lochlomond.com/" target="_blank">Inchmurrin</a> is lovely and has accommodation and a restaurant. My own favourite is <a href="http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/lochlomond/inchcailloch.shtml" target="_blank">Inchcailloch</a> - the views are stunning:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP12OL1ZkF1PjD1LKM57IZ2GjV_posuAaG0y9Hkos9PpTn4VEZBBsQGJf-J_D7bNzeVPMYDIbsxJ-koaDpeNNKuH4u6R4peijIf7HXnTyVsZgjq5cRIx97hFaR6QhcSI_ZwpUz7jbKIqsM/s1600/Inchcailloch+Island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP12OL1ZkF1PjD1LKM57IZ2GjV_posuAaG0y9Hkos9PpTn4VEZBBsQGJf-J_D7bNzeVPMYDIbsxJ-koaDpeNNKuH4u6R4peijIf7HXnTyVsZgjq5cRIx97hFaR6QhcSI_ZwpUz7jbKIqsM/s320/Inchcailloch+Island.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It doesn't have any cover though, so you have to be willing to 'go for it' as far as the weather is concerned! Much of the island is wooded so there's a bit of shelter and if you're outdoor people and don't have a lot of guests (you need to consider the logistics of getting everyone over to the island), it might just suit you perfectly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you like Loch Lomond but don't fancy the logistics of ferrying people over to one of the islands, there are a number of great venues on the western shores including <a href="http://www.devere-hotels.co.uk/hotel-lodges/locations/cameron-house.html" target="_blank">Cameron House</a>, <a href="http://www.thecruin.com/" target="_blank">The Cruin</a>, <a href="http://www.loch-lomond.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Lodge on the Loch</a>, <a href="http://www.duckbay.co.uk/" target="_blank">Duck Bay Marina</a> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">and <a href="http://www.culag.info/" target="_blank">Culag Lochside</a> on the east at </span><a href="http://www.strath.ac.uk/rescat/rosspriory/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">Ross Priory</a> or<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span><a href="http://www.boturich.co.uk/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">Boturich Castle</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">. The views over Loch Lomond are often stunning:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigP9pjew2Iz6wFqZCx2KeC95iure2e-2Iod1UHUOr6P8_OtAWH6wCemotZvYeGkMLMn5JSIE6EOJhcf-dbNe1O7bl-tS-hN9SdMvJh6oU37dH4GCcoHefODhYLhc6gQOEqmCVXxp8ScCsN/s1600/boturich+castle2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigP9pjew2Iz6wFqZCx2KeC95iure2e-2Iod1UHUOr6P8_OtAWH6wCemotZvYeGkMLMn5JSIE6EOJhcf-dbNe1O7bl-tS-hN9SdMvJh6oU37dH4GCcoHefODhYLhc6gQOEqmCVXxp8ScCsN/s320/boturich+castle2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(<a href="http://www.boturich.co.uk/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Boturich Castle</a>)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO6uu649g00nImASLQCQnbBBDs26u3lBfcoMN2FVTvrkkhAlDnpkUBxmCThByecmVN2pfGEHKaAWodFYsDweF5Lnc1OLIDqmh6P6tGQW3zrM64weOZ3X-wWh1KCy3BWjrk5H9N3LU8xRbG/s1600/Cruin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO6uu649g00nImASLQCQnbBBDs26u3lBfcoMN2FVTvrkkhAlDnpkUBxmCThByecmVN2pfGEHKaAWodFYsDweF5Lnc1OLIDqmh6P6tGQW3zrM64weOZ3X-wWh1KCy3BWjrk5H9N3LU8xRbG/s320/Cruin.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(<a href="http://www.thecruin.com/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">The Cruin</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There is also nothing to stop you getting married on Loch Lomond itself - on the Sweeney Cruises <a href="http://www.sweeneyscruises.com/fleet_silverdolphin.php" target="_blank">Silver Dolphin</a> for example:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMWd0QN5RzWCj3ZLwzeQFSgDA3vAeRHxWw9gRAGwj9h3_Y2tpwDUIV2jkQPaarunJK_XCnO5GWYFBZs_ScGQvAOc8sL_RrbTHPXZ0FZK9LZnJA54_sAPbPiM8JK6vpxHwAfbP4o4oGFJk/s1600/all+aboard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMWd0QN5RzWCj3ZLwzeQFSgDA3vAeRHxWw9gRAGwj9h3_Y2tpwDUIV2jkQPaarunJK_XCnO5GWYFBZs_ScGQvAOc8sL_RrbTHPXZ0FZK9LZnJA54_sAPbPiM8JK6vpxHwAfbP4o4oGFJk/s320/all+aboard.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The lovely <a href="http://www.lochkatrine.com/index.html" target="_blank">Loch Katrine</a> is also a possibility of course and here are Iris and Gordon celebrating after their wedding ceremony on board the </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">SS Sir Walter Scott.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv51IGQeX95Yt-cpDcauUWpJVBigB6Q0wDv8YkMwoS4AcIuU0SXKhDZmwXOm5TuRExjOA8vCGiWn-D1z22KKJrBAZE_2rcElgB_574hYh3kMGsiq7njxGrRizYXdu8Oh0Zty2PskT9sS9q/s1600/ss+sir+walter+scott2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv51IGQeX95Yt-cpDcauUWpJVBigB6Q0wDv8YkMwoS4AcIuU0SXKhDZmwXOm5TuRExjOA8vCGiWn-D1z22KKJrBAZE_2rcElgB_574hYh3kMGsiq7njxGrRizYXdu8Oh0Zty2PskT9sS9q/s1600/ss+sir+walter+scott2.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are fantastic views around many of the lochs in the Trossachs and if you want to be near the water, somewhere else </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">to consider for your big day is Loch Ard:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnYGGBOirLUQdwHTdRDe2Iy3txjA5vVX_1yrmhZlA0SWJXCYwdmKuj51tUKfvQhZF12rFtyYBKZofm9pW4afjL2eipBpl276-nDGYvGsDsaIifF2NUIqU86TYBPd1BE6eje3C5jTvRShQ/s1600/Loch+Ard+weddingrev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdnYGGBOirLUQdwHTdRDe2Iy3txjA5vVX_1yrmhZlA0SWJXCYwdmKuj51tUKfvQhZF12rFtyYBKZofm9pW4afjL2eipBpl276-nDGYvGsDsaIifF2NUIqU86TYBPd1BE6eje3C5jTvRShQ/s320/Loch+Ard+weddingrev.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is the garden at the self catering <a href="http://www.altskeith.com/" target="_blank">Altskeith House</a> set up for a lovely summer wedding. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh838selfdrmb6XZ8O8uVsak83sP1N4fEzc2RSrObSj11wx1BYmTkhLqbSIys46EwF4wJtRPjkc7zl9_-TUfKg-oOzC5RC-R4FiLwrhID2xzqZeUWzmUEO4mVnSsJkv7T5J_SzR_TIyvUud/s1600/Altskeith+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh838selfdrmb6XZ8O8uVsak83sP1N4fEzc2RSrObSj11wx1BYmTkhLqbSIys46EwF4wJtRPjkc7zl9_-TUfKg-oOzC5RC-R4FiLwrhID2xzqZeUWzmUEO4mVnSsJkv7T5J_SzR_TIyvUud/s320/Altskeith+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">They also have two rooms indoors suitable for the ceremony that look out onto a lovely landscaped terrace:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTez-Zcm6iV_e1qWvmun_oE_HiaMcPnkqKMIRP0cSiywu_5vefoArlu6UP9wT7muRToWfMOTOkhhXanzNGlJafMPV2MdxgM32d7B6tcJWaaLS4Oau_bn0m6jkTK6ZLs2H0hnPLkkb5FSo/s1600/Altskeith2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTez-Zcm6iV_e1qWvmun_oE_HiaMcPnkqKMIRP0cSiywu_5vefoArlu6UP9wT7muRToWfMOTOkhhXanzNGlJafMPV2MdxgM32d7B6tcJWaaLS4Oau_bn0m6jkTK6ZLs2H0hnPLkkb5FSo/s1600/Altskeith2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JxD1AslgqoI6vP8xKzTg2yD2gPGsV2ZhwyLbkrKImHLxrkkQC48_maJ0usS6ky5xFxVuKXbCIAyWHlNoYlIzp-Ph0PaYkIrTfEknvTJe5pQJ6QmfUFA5FSSpE7qqT7KBelBSN41Akoul/s1600/Altskeith+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JxD1AslgqoI6vP8xKzTg2yD2gPGsV2ZhwyLbkrKImHLxrkkQC48_maJ0usS6ky5xFxVuKXbCIAyWHlNoYlIzp-Ph0PaYkIrTfEknvTJe5pQJ6QmfUFA5FSSpE7qqT7KBelBSN41Akoul/s320/Altskeith+4.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">I love Altskeith and I reckon this is one of the best views from any wedding venue in this area:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoTKP8nCsI4xdeA-XnqnIlMOYQh7n8mQBqTA7z1zCTR0ghxY69Jq1CxzpWudc1w7rYIKGIQG4in-dY2dC-ZsfcdHaF3mL9dA7cwlEp85TwI50KI8_YkKQcfk8oG4L2CnNPGcSjB5AIxLFJ/s1600/Laura_Stuart_20161021_151_Col_WM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoTKP8nCsI4xdeA-XnqnIlMOYQh7n8mQBqTA7z1zCTR0ghxY69Jq1CxzpWudc1w7rYIKGIQG4in-dY2dC-ZsfcdHaF3mL9dA7cwlEp85TwI50KI8_YkKQcfk8oG4L2CnNPGcSjB5AIxLFJ/s320/Laura_Stuart_20161021_151_Col_WM.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: justify;">(Photo by <a href="http://www.ashleycoombes.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ashley Coombes</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">You might also consider the </span><a href="http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonald-forest-hills-hotel-resort/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Forest Hills Hotel</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;"> or for a budget option, the newly and nicely renovated </span><a href="http://www.kinlochard.org/village_hall.html" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Kinlochard village hall</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt0ipVyBU8Vz5Vj4vRtA9O4VaDGDeRAI5lwzKCr1SAG6y_RULb49KIszipYZeJhtLdut_ckQxMbcK1A61y7Js_1kunXbOei5d7BpX8fHxKFR1ly0o5DhM7NVH_hcFDMFi_IHbZeC7vHYp/s1600/Kinlochard+hall2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbt0ipVyBU8Vz5Vj4vRtA9O4VaDGDeRAI5lwzKCr1SAG6y_RULb49KIszipYZeJhtLdut_ckQxMbcK1A61y7Js_1kunXbOei5d7BpX8fHxKFR1ly0o5DhM7NVH_hcFDMFi_IHbZeC7vHYp/s1600/Kinlochard+hall2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWioH7horbhcru8dY_9OWcc_Up92QRh0oy9plLZY9iKP3NN8jhyg6zMziqeyl-WjKIl14xLN_zz2fvP9kyGNKQh_lhqj6X4SgBljAFsjuLWP3lIk-cLho4jv7sa7gqlYCcyKW0bTsQU6X/s1600/Kinlochard2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxWioH7horbhcru8dY_9OWcc_Up92QRh0oy9plLZY9iKP3NN8jhyg6zMziqeyl-WjKIl14xLN_zz2fvP9kyGNKQh_lhqj6X4SgBljAFsjuLWP3lIk-cLho4jv7sa7gqlYCcyKW0bTsQU6X/s1600/Kinlochard2.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_gdGAgBVq_brIo_kZQELL2oDy1trj-rhD_3MxACY9BFGrSAhYziBhJVVhqo5PEfolY9UNmCiElGIv46s-P9QdZcBGtOU1mN7LOJ33o5rbAgzMQTb0duC1OuSC10i1ggj6N7QHZc1Yx6Z1/s1600/Kinlochard+green2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_gdGAgBVq_brIo_kZQELL2oDy1trj-rhD_3MxACY9BFGrSAhYziBhJVVhqo5PEfolY9UNmCiElGIv46s-P9QdZcBGtOU1mN7LOJ33o5rbAgzMQTb0duC1OuSC10i1ggj6N7QHZc1Yx6Z1/s1600/Kinlochard+green2.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Lesley and Rupert having fun at their outdoor Kinlochard wedding)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQnp5WuhUsAYT3bsiNKKEDAyxclYX_CRfAJjfz3m5uqoYIJj6jv56SWmhMv_v67djhG0eipXleF2lzTd-0LWXxB_o1pchck4p62uwVPuRd2iGKu2wSbex3ZpYBIjVQL_CxO3OZLZNosQ7/s1600/Medievel+wedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAQnp5WuhUsAYT3bsiNKKEDAyxclYX_CRfAJjfz3m5uqoYIJj6jv56SWmhMv_v67djhG0eipXleF2lzTd-0LWXxB_o1pchck4p62uwVPuRd2iGKu2wSbex3ZpYBIjVQL_CxO3OZLZNosQ7/s320/Medievel+wedding.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(a not so sunny day but a lovely medieval themed wedding on the shores of the loch outside Kinlochard village hall)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Loch Venachar is stunning too and these are views from the Harbour Cafe (see <a href="http://www.venachar-lochside.co.uk/" target="_blank">Venachar Lochside</a>):</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAv5lyqRwZgicLkbPi4QG-mDq4SZC8e028Z5Gz1cC8NuO7ilCV7He5vLe1h2scajP8dcpar5ZooDS-UGK6lQw8DRwSOLW1Zrfk9uA_X2BYnNpI6TsRuNbs4u4zaDjCAnIadptNyS8D4U9/s1600/Venachar+lochside+2rev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAv5lyqRwZgicLkbPi4QG-mDq4SZC8e028Z5Gz1cC8NuO7ilCV7He5vLe1h2scajP8dcpar5ZooDS-UGK6lQw8DRwSOLW1Zrfk9uA_X2BYnNpI6TsRuNbs4u4zaDjCAnIadptNyS8D4U9/s320/Venachar+lochside+2rev.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The lovey spot next to the river at <a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Roman Camp Hotel</a> in Callander is also very special:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(picture of Jilly and Scott by Stirling based professional photographers <a href="http://whylerphotos.com/" target="_blank">Whylers</a>)</span></div>
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-11378239338315899022009-01-04T16:05:00.028+00:002020-05-24T10:04:09.442+01:00We like the idea of using a quaich in our ceremony - how can we do this?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quaich" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">quaich</span></a> is a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">traditional</span> Scottish two handled drinking cup. The word quaich comes from the Gaelic word 'cuach' or cup. They can be made of wood, pottery, silver or pewter and come in a range of sizes.<br /><br />
The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">quaich</span> is often referred to as 'the loving cup' or cup of welcome or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">friendship</span> and its two handles make it ideal for sharing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-qZ0fB-eea51KSz0cxuDyDcqvu6nn-OGQkR8hgSGxDkx0yT7rTkGlJouEBC04hat2NJ_fY0owTEyIBzT4hIeLrJFvZ2N2M3fFjBqLz6J7pDDsZvOttJ7XmHLKyI6K-w5d3kQcz3i8rXBS/s1600-h/Quaich2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287480538041623474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-qZ0fB-eea51KSz0cxuDyDcqvu6nn-OGQkR8hgSGxDkx0yT7rTkGlJouEBC04hat2NJ_fY0owTEyIBzT4hIeLrJFvZ2N2M3fFjBqLz6J7pDDsZvOttJ7XmHLKyI6K-w5d3kQcz3i8rXBS/s320/Quaich2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It is unique to Scotland and part of the tradition of Celtic hospitality was that of welcoming guests with a drink from a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">quaich</span>. Sharing a cup was also seen as a sign of trust between the people drinking from it - because it is offered and taken with both hands, the drinker could not hold a weapon at the same time and the sharing of the drink was also a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">guarantee</span> that it hadn't been <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">poisoned</span>!<br />
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King James VI of Scotland presented a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">quaich</span> to Anne of Denmark on the occasion of their marriage in 1589 and since then <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">quaichs</span> have often been used in wedding ceremonies. Drinking from the same cup is a lovely symbol of the love and trust between the couple. Because it is traditionally 'the cup of welcome', drinking from it can also be seen as a way of welcoming the bride and groom into each others' family too.<br />
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There are lots of ideas for incorporating a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">quaich</span> into your ceremony:</span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could each hold onto the cup for the other when you drink, symbolising your togetherness. But guys, just watch you don't spill any drink down your bride's lovely dress or you'll be in BIG trouble!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGWbqlRG1Yjp7vLhxn_wZF_W4VFuNSuJIlds9-udVUcLNV05fZa-gVy9o6f9AbE7AXSC6yjWZxS9CZtwHggEGtRsMsRRmH0NgVcMStTg-ThuItSi4nslz5AmTOQPYCPNXXU25wo9V-E__/s1600/Quaich+drinking.jpg" style="font-size: small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498628210614411794" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCGWbqlRG1Yjp7vLhxn_wZF_W4VFuNSuJIlds9-udVUcLNV05fZa-gVy9o6f9AbE7AXSC6yjWZxS9CZtwHggEGtRsMsRRmH0NgVcMStTg-ThuItSi4nslz5AmTOQPYCPNXXU25wo9V-E__/s320/Quaich+drinking.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 229px;" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(David didn't spill any down Claire's dress by the way!)</span></span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">You could drink bubbly from your quaich to celebrate your marriage, though it is of course traditional</span> to drink whisky.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGtu_JkG2wUKzZ2GsxA5KhqHbz9_qmdH4LJWnpq8ILkoD0duXdSXD7UwI65PoKCC2ZaIItCDlXDk3D5PyXacA1j-OTOoykjRODtddqL7DMO89kN1Hiog4S-xvS2r63eO-iZIyDuO1vv8K/s1600-h/Inchmahome+tartan+and+quaich+2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383660741439588562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGtu_JkG2wUKzZ2GsxA5KhqHbz9_qmdH4LJWnpq8ILkoD0duXdSXD7UwI65PoKCC2ZaIItCDlXDk3D5PyXacA1j-OTOoykjRODtddqL7DMO89kN1Hiog4S-xvS2r63eO-iZIyDuO1vv8K/s320/Inchmahome+tartan+and+quaich+2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 226px;" /></a></span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could have two different drinks to pour into the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">quaich</span>, the mixing of the two being symbolic of your union as a married couple. Whisky and water are an obvious choice, but if you don't like a dram, there's nothing to stop you from having gin and tonic or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Bacardi</span> and coke! You might also want to symbolise your respective roots by, for example, mixing water from two different sources, such as Irish and Scottish spring water:</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrlexhyl4omlkSHnO4avzK6kmtWqNaedKfv9wUy7t21w8gNTRq42vffVo8wh6xWzwe-w57qyDe8Je0L1C5L8mV2SHE8s0M6nEU4rFyTBIjyIfERJTOB7EBli8ToMKXdHmlL8VZyP_O3i3/s1600/Quaich+scottish+and+irish+water.JPG"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498629028846636354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBrlexhyl4omlkSHnO4avzK6kmtWqNaedKfv9wUy7t21w8gNTRq42vffVo8wh6xWzwe-w57qyDe8Je0L1C5L8mV2SHE8s0M6nEU4rFyTBIjyIfERJTOB7EBli8ToMKXdHmlL8VZyP_O3i3/s320/Quaich+scottish+and+irish+water.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(The wee green bottle was Tipperary water!)</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Karen and Scott recently decided to mix the Scottish tradition of the quaich with what Scott told me was the Canadian tradition of drinking vast quantities of Moose Head beer!</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9a1y_Rz_l8jzs9T0oaChLcFCQ71pJo9EC0fOdx_DL8BrvZx3sa4n5DJWrvNPQu9VMhwQGR0ADT8ugcLwCLOluzbvzpM7hRUmQHvXfn5iXpK6_P07UT42YZSixYb6YC4ZQ_yij74POpnI/s1600/Quaich+and+moosehead.JPG"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498629709780625778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9a1y_Rz_l8jzs9T0oaChLcFCQ71pJo9EC0fOdx_DL8BrvZx3sa4n5DJWrvNPQu9VMhwQGR0ADT8ugcLwCLOluzbvzpM7hRUmQHvXfn5iXpK6_P07UT42YZSixYb6YC4ZQ_yij74POpnI/s320/Quaich+and+moosehead.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></span></a><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could alternatively use Scotland's real national drink - <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Irn</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Bru</span>! Karen and Paul did this <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">when</span> they got married in 2008 because they wanted their children to share the drink. Their ceremony was as much about celebrating family life as it was about their <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">marriage</span>!</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUNhllPmSKzUCOMfTSv68ruARD6YF1DK2xkdX_brGC0nDBUj43xVCE_QGYymEKBCz61IoGYzxBTT76N1nYaAfqibWeCNuv-Z509FIusaygffSVvi2w3FYL8kinxcmsSoNnoxURwOZusuF/s1600-h/Quaich4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287475386841632962" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhUNhllPmSKzUCOMfTSv68ruARD6YF1DK2xkdX_brGC0nDBUj43xVCE_QGYymEKBCz61IoGYzxBTT76N1nYaAfqibWeCNuv-Z509FIusaygffSVvi2w3FYL8kinxcmsSoNnoxURwOZusuF/s320/Quaich4.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 213px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And this one was a first (and possibly a last?) - Jagermeister!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could pass the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">quaich</span> to your attendants (bridesmaid and Best Man), to your respective families or indeed to all of your guests, as a lovely way of sharing your love, trust and happiness with them.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">quaich</span> could be handed to the bride by the groom's parents and then to the groom by the bride's parents as a way of welcoming each into the others' family.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could have the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">quaich</span> engraved with your names and the date of your marriage.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEq7nUSYbh0L9lv_mcS43zGpCsA3YicKSTb8P-ePAfEeLZd0B78GJ1Rj_LlIPOnDpaL5pxxMoEAhJ1KiAaQhRms9w0RMAMz2OfRKPnO-cBdJHVD_1UgZ7g9V19VmfadqaHQ5a1UcBBuuc/s1600/Quaich+inscribed.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498630086535097362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyEq7nUSYbh0L9lv_mcS43zGpCsA3YicKSTb8P-ePAfEeLZd0B78GJ1Rj_LlIPOnDpaL5pxxMoEAhJ1KiAaQhRms9w0RMAMz2OfRKPnO-cBdJHVD_1UgZ7g9V19VmfadqaHQ5a1UcBBuuc/s320/Quaich+inscribed.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 234px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></span></a><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Or you could buy one with a design of hearts:</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhZQiSXBFnx7V6mgNr9fPYp7qS9vB-wAzZS2Q69RE3sh7Wmmd8KvDSnR2d7ayHfOuRY19UIbeHB0lhZrm7SVOdBTP0-MNxqpKufm1fW9mg_nd2tMo9QVrTSFW7pJyOvCV3q0hMYS3B0um/s1600/Quaich+with+heartsrev.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhZQiSXBFnx7V6mgNr9fPYp7qS9vB-wAzZS2Q69RE3sh7Wmmd8KvDSnR2d7ayHfOuRY19UIbeHB0lhZrm7SVOdBTP0-MNxqpKufm1fW9mg_nd2tMo9QVrTSFW7pJyOvCV3q0hMYS3B0um/s320/Quaich+with+heartsrev.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> This lovely one below was made by <a href="http://www.uigpottery.co.uk/products.php" target="_blank">Uig Pottery</a> on Skye who do a lovely range of quaichs</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRb34dGwGEMRMfhOjCbJvEBamsUyoUutMOMqhFo7kEDpc2F8uscaQgiMmFDF3N5ly4lK2MUM837uRVxBnipOXUAHXCz7Z03ctR9Kbn2RqHyOaPxGExGn6nd6Uxu1bSIPTjvf_plr2iX6Wz/s1600/Quaich+personalised2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRb34dGwGEMRMfhOjCbJvEBamsUyoUutMOMqhFo7kEDpc2F8uscaQgiMmFDF3N5ly4lK2MUM837uRVxBnipOXUAHXCz7Z03ctR9Kbn2RqHyOaPxGExGn6nd6Uxu1bSIPTjvf_plr2iX6Wz/s320/Quaich+personalised2.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This wooden one was nice too:</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you don't want to buy your own, I have <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">quaichs</span> in various sizes and I'm more than happy to bring one along for you to use on the day. This is my favourite - it's not too big or too small and is nicely decorated:</span></li>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383660727825771906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicpblMlnQ5raG3J9g3pXuJYUtqytSHuZs5hNgr-x5GJGCIxr9UUW1M-BG8R81TfREOzCywHjJyN_YvTxf1TWQK4_A28zxm0zwXLREH1-5j6C5VDhjbL7GFeID61A0QBTyOpTZwDTMbUY-f/s320/Quaich+on+tree.JPG" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could use the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">quaich</span> in other ways too - to pour sand into would be one idea. The grains of sand can never again be <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">separated</span> once they are mixed together and you could use that as a way to symbolise your unity as a couple.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You could use the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">quaich</span> as a container for water, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">perhaps</span> bringing water from two different sources to represent your respective family roots. The water could then be sprinkled onto your joined hands as a way of wishing you good luck, as they traditionally do in the Far East.<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For the wedding of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Calum</span> and Jo a few years ago, we used a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">quaich</span> with white heather blossom in it and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">mixed</span> it with corn pollen from a Navajo Indian <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">marriage</span> basket. This was a lovely way to acknowledge their respective roots and to symbolise the joining together of their lives in marriage.</span></li>
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-2286799800740376882009-01-02T10:47:00.063+00:002020-05-24T10:04:40.633+01:00Where are there great places to get married in central Scotland?<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWl9o9JozZKo3GpZIK4uVWisuRyR5ihfGtORrD9NbVMuPTQwFeIVUtZxpG1ifTGVar42PvaZXSYArPNW0yVDg7QX5NPYspJwoZvnlEiaoid14l8iwgu2VCPYdFBr3FmcbKl748tFqexRt/s1600/central+scotland+view.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxWl9o9JozZKo3GpZIK4uVWisuRyR5ihfGtORrD9NbVMuPTQwFeIVUtZxpG1ifTGVar42PvaZXSYArPNW0yVDg7QX5NPYspJwoZvnlEiaoid14l8iwgu2VCPYdFBr3FmcbKl748tFqexRt/s1600/central+scotland+view.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(<a href="http://www.nationalwallacemonument.com/index.php" target="_blank">The Wallace Monument</a> from <a href="http://www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/" target="_blank">Stirling Castle</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Great places to get married? This is a matter of opinion of course and it's well worth spending some time visiting potential venues to see which ones suit your needs best and have the right 'feel'. In this part of the world, there are numerous lovely places to get married and although this isn't an exhaustive list, here are a few suggestions to get you going! Some of them are suitable for both your ceremony and the reception and others just for the ceremony. By the way, I've listed mainly local venues here, but I'm also quite happy to travel further afield to conduct weddings too! The beauty of living in central Scotland is that I can travel easily to numerous locations north, south, east and west! Here are some great local venues including fabulous hotels with great food, castles, other historic places and places with spectacular views:</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Fabulous hotels with great food!</span><style>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://mhor.net/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Monachyle</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Mhor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Balquhidder</span></a> (pictured)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Roman Camp Hotel</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Glenskirlie</span> Castle, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Banknock</span></a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.gleneagles.com/home.aspx" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Gleneagles</span> Hotel, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Auchterarder</span></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/places/hire/weddings.htm" target="_blank">The Great Hall, tower rooms or terraces at Castle Campbell, Dollar</a> (pictured)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/places/hire/weddings.htm" target="_blank">The Great Hall or the Chapel Royal at <st1:place st="on">Stirling</st1:place> Castle</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/places/hire/weddings.htm" target="_blank">The Great Hall, Laird’s Hall or kitchen at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Doune</span> Castle</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.airthcastlehotel.com/" target="_blank"><o:p></o:p><st1:placename st="on"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Airth</span></st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Castle</st1:placetype>, near <st1:place st="on">Stirling</st1:place></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.airthcastlehotel.com/"><st1:place st="on"></st1:place></a><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie Castle at Banknock</a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.planecastle.co.uk/" target="_blank">Plane Castle, by Airth</a></span><br />
<a href="http://www.broomhallcastleweddings.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Broomhall Castle in Menstrie</span></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/places/propertyresults/propertyoverview.htm?PropID=PL_276&PropName=Stirling:%20Argyll%27s%20Lodging" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">Argyll</span>’s Lodging, <st1:place st="on">Stirling</st1:place></a> (pictured)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.cowanes.org.uk/" target="_blank">Cowanes Hospital </a> also in the historic part of Stirling near to the castle</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.nationalwallacemonument.com/" target="_blank">The <st1:placename st="on">Wallace</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Monument</st1:placename>, <st1:place st="on">Stirling</st1:place></a></span><br />
<a href="http://alberthalls.stirling.gov.uk/alberthalls/albert-weddings" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Albert Halls, Stirling</span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16"><a href="http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/3/" target="_blank">A</a></span><a href="http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/3/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error">lloa</span> Tower</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/22/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Royal Burgh of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Culross</span></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.geanhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">Gean</span> House, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">Alloa</span></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyoverview.htm?PropID=PL_199&PropName=Linlithgow%20Palace" style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Linlithgow</span> Palace</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Please note: </b><span style="text-align: center;">Historic Scotland have decided that weddings will no longer be allowed at a number of their properties in the central belt and they include Inchmahome Island, Tullibardine Chapel, Innerpeffray Chapel and Cambuskenneth Abbey. If you need more information about this, phone the Historic Scotland wedding team on 0131 668 8916</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold;">Places with spectacular views:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.loch-lomond.me.uk/islands.htm" target="_blank">Loch Lomond islands</a> such as Inchmurrin and Inchcallioch (pictured)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Venues on the western shores of Loch Lomond such as </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.devere-hotels.co.uk/hotel-lodges/locations/cameron-house.html" target="_blank">Cameron House</a>, <a href="http://www.duckbay.co.uk/" target="_blank">Duck Bay Marina</a>, <a href="http://www.loch-lomond.co.uk/" target="_blank">Lodge on Loch Lomond</a>, <a href="http://www.culag.info/" target="_blank">Culag Lochside</a><a href="http://www.thecruin.com/default.asp"></a> and <a href="http://www.thecruin.com/" target="_blank">The Cruin</a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Or venues on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond such as <a href="http://www.syha.org.uk/hostels-in-scotland/lowlands/rowardennan-lodge.aspx" target="_blank">Rowardennan Youth Hostel</a> and <a href="http://www.boturich.co.uk/" target="_blank">Boturich Castle</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/stirling/dumyat/index.html" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_36">Dumyat</span> hill, <st1:place st="on">Stirling</st1:place></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://mhor.net/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_37">Monachyle</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_38">Mhor</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_39">Balquhidder</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyabout.htm?PropID=PL_058&PropName=Castle%20Campbell%20And%20Garden" target="_blank">Castle Campbell, Dollar</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.lake-hotel.com/" target="_blank">The Lake Hotel, <st1:place st="on">Lake</st1:place> of Mentieth</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Roman Camp Hotel</a> in Callander</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.comriecroft.com/" target="_blank">Comrie Croft</a></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonald-forest-hills-hotel-resort/" target="_blank">The Forest Hills Hotel</a> at Kinlochard</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.kinlochard.org/village_hall.html" target="_blank">Kinlochard Village Hall</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.altskeith.com/" target="_blank">Altskeith House </a> also at Kinlochard</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You will have noticed that there are one or two chapels mentioned in the lists above. Although humanist marriages are entirely non-religious in content, it isn't usually a problem (though check with your Celebrant first) to hold the ceremony in a building of religious significance, if it is no longer used for regular worship. Many old chapels have been beautifully renovated and make lovely settings for a wedding - such as <a href="http://www.glencorsehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glencorse</a> near Edinburgh :<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF-StRcsU4bYAyMwjgjdt9Zs7kGN7n85dEaTHjpkaTO1RAAqOA9ZzYKEJxMJKz36NhQS8QYjbLZgkpovSlQjStsmDFX6m8yZTSEnLRSVomLS_L_KteD_JuWhdGoGgTuT77ovsWsBirCJ6g/s1600/church5+glencorse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF-StRcsU4bYAyMwjgjdt9Zs7kGN7n85dEaTHjpkaTO1RAAqOA9ZzYKEJxMJKz36NhQS8QYjbLZgkpovSlQjStsmDFX6m8yZTSEnLRSVomLS_L_KteD_JuWhdGoGgTuT77ovsWsBirCJ6g/s320/church5+glencorse.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The other thing you might be considering is getting married in your own home or garden and I have conducted some lovely relaxed and informal weddings in such settings. If the house isn't big enough or you'd prefer to be in the garden, you can hire a marquee, either large or small and have fun decorating it:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwSPjcWpueV-qJvKhw9nrxm3vgk2wMY4HCkS1dOQdcmFlsJlBvmdJkTbhauRD6AF71rURI_nCGTdc_n18yYiNmmN_UByNJCEE0VP8-vPezSO4RKZezD5Os2fS-F7ILiX2qKV0r5YPse1V/s1600/Marquee+at+The+Parsonage2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnwSPjcWpueV-qJvKhw9nrxm3vgk2wMY4HCkS1dOQdcmFlsJlBvmdJkTbhauRD6AF71rURI_nCGTdc_n18yYiNmmN_UByNJCEE0VP8-vPezSO4RKZezD5Os2fS-F7ILiX2qKV0r5YPse1V/s320/Marquee+at+The+Parsonage2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you have an out building, a barn or a byre, this could be converted and decorated for the big day. A bit of whitewash, an inexpensive carpet and some nice decorations completely transformed this one for example:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUa6Q97CnIPi01GQyOBdF4i2gYjSUs9Pm6vHYygh04PIFZpjDzJnhPrBtytPUifV73JZw3WHx0tndHXMXF1o7FkEBTjwGoGIU-COCeQGdAhXmR8_uTYpM951ZjGUANFaoOTwSMgfinPNhc/s1600-h/Barn.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383959309686421650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUa6Q97CnIPi01GQyOBdF4i2gYjSUs9Pm6vHYygh04PIFZpjDzJnhPrBtytPUifV73JZw3WHx0tndHXMXF1o7FkEBTjwGoGIU-COCeQGdAhXmR8_uTYpM951ZjGUANFaoOTwSMgfinPNhc/s320/Barn.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And you might want to consider your local village or community hall too - with a bit of decoration, these places can make lovely (and often inexpensive) venues for weddings! <a href="http://www.kinlochard.org/village_hall.html" target="_blank">Kinlochard Village Hall</a> is particularly nice for example and has a lovely view over the loch:
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLBMhj0I4xGtQ_neXGYiu5fOINOSYutdQiO4Ipynr5gFZi55kdYSJKsG_pRVroWKhYhur5sw5LFSYL0hyphenhyphenga0wBy5Y53FNAHZq5oyywntT16CUN3UBDpt_bmtyxl7d8BQEdYOaxGiT0tTp/s1600/Kinlochard+22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTLBMhj0I4xGtQ_neXGYiu5fOINOSYutdQiO4Ipynr5gFZi55kdYSJKsG_pRVroWKhYhur5sw5LFSYL0hyphenhyphenga0wBy5Y53FNAHZq5oyywntT16CUN3UBDpt_bmtyxl7d8BQEdYOaxGiT0tTp/s1600/Kinlochard+22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And finally, don't forget that Humanist Celebrants can conduct legal marriages ANYWHERE in Scotland without the need for a civil licence, so if you have an idea for something unusual of different, just let us know!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">By the way, you might want to consider the following local venues to accommodate your guests or for your reception if the ceremony venue doesn't offer an option for this:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /><a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Roman Camp Hotel</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Callander</span><br /><a href="http://www.dunblanehydrohotel.com/" target="_blank">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Dunblane</span> Hydro</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://victoriahalldunblane.com/" target="_blank">Victoria Hall Dunblane</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.oldchurcheshouse.com/" target="_blank">Old Churches House</a> in Dunblane<br /><a href="http://www.dunmarhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Dunmar</span></a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Alloa</span><br /><a href="http://www.royal-stirling.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Royal Hotel</a> at Bridge of Allan<br /><a href="http://www.parklodge.net/" target="_blank">The Park Lodge</a> in Stirling<br /><a href="http://www.pumahotels.co.uk/hotels/stirling-highland-hotel/" target="_blank">The Stirling Highland Hotel</a><br /><a href="http://www.thegoldenlionstirling.com/" target="_blank">The Golden Lion Hotel</a>, Stirling<br /><a href="http://alberthalls.stirling.gov.uk/" target="_blank">The Albert Halls</a>, Stirling</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.stirlingcourthotel.com/" target="_blank">The Stirling Court Hotel</a>, at Stirling University (formerly the Management Centre)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />There are local pubs, hotels and halls that would be suitable for a smaller reception too. And if you're looking for accommodation for you or your guests, there are plenty of B&Bs around. Try:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.glenardochhouse.com/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Glenardoch</span> House</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Doune</span><br /><a href="http://www.thewoodsidedoune.co.uk/" target="_blank">The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Woodside</span> Hotel</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Doune</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.redlion-doune.com/" target="_blank">The Red Lion</a> in Doune</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.bed-and-breakfast-doune-scotland.com/" target="_blank">The Stable</a> in Doune </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/22741112?s=51" target="_blank">Doune B&B</a> in Doune</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.mackeanstonhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Mackeanston House</a> a couple of miles outside the village<br /><a href="http://www.hillview-cottage.com/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Hillview</span> Cottage</a> a mile or so outside the village</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />There are quite a few lovely self catering cottages and houses in the area too. For example:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.lochend-chalets.com/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">Lochend</span> Chalets</a> at the Lake of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">Menteith</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.kilbrydecastle.com/accommodation.php" target="_blank">Kilbryde Castle</a> near Dunblane</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.cardrossestate.com/" target="_blank">The Cardross Estate holiday cottages</a> near Port of </span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Menteith</span></div>
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<span class="blsp-spelling-error" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://netherglenny.com/" target="_blank">Nether Glenny Cottages, Port of Menteith</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And if you fancy somewhere a bit bigger to accommodate a group of friends and family, try:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.newholme.co.uk/" target="_blank">Newholme House</a> in Stirling (accommodates 10-12)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.burnsidehouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Burnside House</a> at Deanston (accommodates 8)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.landmarktrust.org.uk/BuildingDetails/Overview/72/Gargunnock_House" target="_blank">Gargunnock House</a> in Gargunnock (where else?!) which is owned by the Landmark Trust (accommodates 16)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.planecastle.co.uk/" target="_blank">Plane Castle</a> by Airth (accommodates 18)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.altskeith.com/index.html" target="_blank">Altskeith House</a> at Kinlochard (accommodates 22)</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.lenyestate.com/accommodationOverview" target="_blank">Leny Estate</a> near Callander (accommodates around 56 people in various lodges and cottages)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is a lovely area to stay in and very central location for exploring the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28">Trossachs. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /><i style="color: #29303b; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;">To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i></span></div>
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-23035359233930772612008-07-02T17:08:00.028+01:002020-05-24T10:04:56.645+01:00We're worried about our vows - do you have any tips?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwKIIkmkM-3FMgXerc853EMwTnfc9lxkpZ3-zbTkITQ23336UKe2sW6dCGP089a8Xu_u3ZGj86OBi6T05l9ImlZ6N5uM6knIyWKMTO-pUmto4vdzRpAXjfsoHBufLuoa7Dht-cF3GkkHaD/s1600/wee+ones3.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The exchange of vows is undoubtedly the most important part of the ceremony and often the most meaningful and moving. It's important to think carefully about the promises you want to make to each other on your wedding day, so that the words are sincere and heartfelt. One couple who gave a lot of thought to their vows were Alan and Fiona:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">"Alan and I have written our own vows, and we have tried to include promises which are important to us and our relationship. We decided to write these together, as we were keen to make the same promises as each other. However, while we will each say more or less the same thing, there are a couple of lines which are different – and which represent sort of “mirror image” promises, rather than the exact same one.<br />
We had some fun writing them, and it’s fair to say, some disagreements – we can each be quite strong-willed, so there were some passionate debates over the choice each and every word, as well as the sequence of the promises... But, I think we have finally come up with a version which we are both really happy with... We had a bit of a practice the other night, and I had goosebumps (and tears in my eyes!). I think they are all promises which we already try to live by – but somehow the idea of saying them out loud, in front of other people, brings a whole new significance..."</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Fiona and Alan were well prepared and said their vows beautifully on the day, but this is often the part of the ceremony that couples worry most about - What should we say to one another? How nervous will I be? Will I get a fit of the giggles? Will I get all emotional?</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Will I get through them? </span></div>
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Please don't worry - we're here to help and the following tips might be useful:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">If you've no idea at this stage what you might want to say to each other, that's no problem. When I meet couples, I always talk through this aspect of the ceremony with them, in order to allay any fears. I have examples for you too and you can take these away to help you to put your own together - they will give you some idea of what you might say and how you might phrase your promises. Most couples use the examples as a way to inspire them to write their own, but you could simply pick one off the list if you particularly liked one of them. You don't have to say the same words to each other (though many couples do) and you might even want to keep your vows a secret from one another until the day. Whatever you decide, discuss any concerns you might have with your Celebrant, who will be able to help and advise you.</span> </li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Please don't worry about getting the giggles! Humanist ceremonies often have a relaxed and informal feel to them, though they can obviously be formal and traditional if that is what you want. And if you do giggle, it's not like getting getting caught in assembly at school (so you did that too then?!). Nor is the Celebrant going to be disapproving in any way - in fact, I'm much more likely to laugh along with you! I hope that you enjoy your wedding ceremony and feel comfortable with whatever emotions you're feeling at the time.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kin8YNi08RjlqEO5UzALn2fPJYEoWL009P_mfV88Y_ATXCfm-Fv_f87qo-rYix38yxhYD4wtkV_bcdVhLvTtWnoX_YAnKdMZI4xjQktf89Cw_dJZZpjTQU8pkGUPMPzFfwsFTIYSQpXb/s1600/Laugh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9kin8YNi08RjlqEO5UzALn2fPJYEoWL009P_mfV88Y_ATXCfm-Fv_f87qo-rYix38yxhYD4wtkV_bcdVhLvTtWnoX_YAnKdMZI4xjQktf89Cw_dJZZpjTQU8pkGUPMPzFfwsFTIYSQpXb/s320/Laugh.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Lisa and Jonas, photo by <a href="http://www.neilfordyce.com/" target="_blank">Neil Fordyce</a>)</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">D</span><span style="font-size: x-small;">on't worry about getting emotional either. I'm always on hand with tissues to pass to you if you need them - or just an encouraging little word to help you to carry on. I can even quickly re-phrase your vows if they are in the form of a statement (and turn them into a question with an 'I do' response) if you really dry up - but you won't, so relax!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Nerves can sometimes get to you, but again, I'll be there to reassure you and I'll whisper things like 'take a deep breath' and 'you'll be OK'.....</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">There are different ways to express your vows to each other:</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">You can phrase your vows as a question (you decide what the question is obviously) that I, as your Marriage Celebrant, will ask you each in turn. You then simply respond, 'I do' or if it's a joint question, 'we will'. This is a good option if you're feeling nervous and would prefer not to say too much during the ceremony.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">You can make a short statement to each other. I usually advise that you read from a card rather than putting yourself under pressure by trying to memorise the words. I'll pass you the card at the appropriate time and that in itself will give you confidence.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7e0jyo9RIyxq1-4ESY_qdwZG5MCPbsa_Vp8zBv1lqAGKg_NvmCjQydaTQS55_3x030r99yH7UebaiMsmTbLlg548zkt2MN1yIKAbwnVFg0smoVvgmwuYnLsLNU8e0eVaA_j5nFXM7o8E6/s1600-h/Exchange+of+vows.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218822299071829778" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7e0jyo9RIyxq1-4ESY_qdwZG5MCPbsa_Vp8zBv1lqAGKg_NvmCjQydaTQS55_3x030r99yH7UebaiMsmTbLlg548zkt2MN1yIKAbwnVFg0smoVvgmwuYnLsLNU8e0eVaA_j5nFXM7o8E6/s320/Exchange+of+vows.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></span><span style="font-size: xx-small;">(Pictured here are Lynne and Adam, now Mr and Mrs Higgins at their wedding at <a href="http://mhor.net/" target="_blank">Monachyle Mhor</a>. Aren't Lynne's flowers lovely? This is called a wedding flower bracelet or wrist corsage)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Here's a short Youtube video clip of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhnekvZrz00" target="_blank">Alison and David</a></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> exchanging their vows (video by <a href="http://www.sharpfocusva.co.uk/index.html" target="_blank">Sharp Focus</a>). </span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">One thing that I find helps with your nerves is to hold hands and I'll always invite you to do this as you exchange your vows.</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5A4CJpi-P7f-GvRn-_1PpjgQVr_PiJ_E4RD5dWpKZrzPVhwVLah3oiCZV7V61WYyQ1HPhK97Hio9guj81DILe-lys5v93fsTpJR3oC0KcJ0PGkXL9oHoq72s1tu9UzE19JFkI4zRlqgX/s1600/vows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5A4CJpi-P7f-GvRn-_1PpjgQVr_PiJ_E4RD5dWpKZrzPVhwVLah3oiCZV7V61WYyQ1HPhK97Hio9guj81DILe-lys5v93fsTpJR3oC0KcJ0PGkXL9oHoq72s1tu9UzE19JFkI4zRlqgX/s1600/vows.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Look at each other when you exchange your vows, rather than looking at me. As I often remind couples, you're marrying each other and not me! And it doesn't matter if you speak quietly either - the vows are between you as bride and groom...</span> </li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfqiuWi8vB1yQqEqgk6FUWCnSQpvCFJsmbdPKZmv1bHIL7h2ZYg1oJH6A1FFfW5BYh_hKXptj5YYSft5P6_hM3-1DIDue-0yi2T69ow8B2sH7XcazjJEdgwYiTGCALouSwbs8JciF663l/s1600/Carol+and+Thomas+by+Paul2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfqiuWi8vB1yQqEqgk6FUWCnSQpvCFJsmbdPKZmv1bHIL7h2ZYg1oJH6A1FFfW5BYh_hKXptj5YYSft5P6_hM3-1DIDue-0yi2T69ow8B2sH7XcazjJEdgwYiTGCALouSwbs8JciF663l/s320/Carol+and+Thomas+by+Paul2.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">(This is Carol and Thomas at their wedding by the river at the lovely <a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Roman Camp Hotel</a>, picture by <a href="http://www.paulwalkerimages.co.uk/" target="_blank">Paul Walker Images</a>)</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">There's something very reassuring about holding each others' hands if you're feeling a bit wobbly! And if you have children, it's a nice idea to include them too, by making promises to them as well </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">as to each other during your vows. You can also have them standing with you while you exchange your vows on the day, as Jay and Ian did at <a href="http://mhor.net/" target="_blank">Monachyle Mhor</a></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwKIIkmkM-3FMgXerc853EMwTnfc9lxkpZ3-zbTkITQ23336UKe2sW6dCGP089a8Xu_u3ZGj86OBi6T05l9ImlZ6N5uM6knIyWKMTO-pUmto4vdzRpAXjfsoHBufLuoa7Dht-cF3GkkHaD/s1600/wee+ones3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwKIIkmkM-3FMgXerc853EMwTnfc9lxkpZ3-zbTkITQ23336UKe2sW6dCGP089a8Xu_u3ZGj86OBi6T05l9ImlZ6N5uM6knIyWKMTO-pUmto4vdzRpAXjfsoHBufLuoa7Dht-cF3GkkHaD/s320/wee+ones3.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If your children are really young, you kind of have to go with the flow really and they might just decide to join you anyway:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigW_O5pJo3BnwvF_I59glyS693Wd_QFv-3LPWsl5qbkQlc06TtIPyQC-fWFD7d8fzynuwaO6As94T4ebQLserUxPHYS4_GGmXG52LJeZ_Xjw_muRLr3DqcOn44hVtU7efx1qXewJo9pz0i/s1600/Indiya+and+Chris+vows.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigW_O5pJo3BnwvF_I59glyS693Wd_QFv-3LPWsl5qbkQlc06TtIPyQC-fWFD7d8fzynuwaO6As94T4ebQLserUxPHYS4_GGmXG52LJeZ_Xjw_muRLr3DqcOn44hVtU7efx1qXewJo9pz0i/s320/Indiya+and+Chris+vows.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(picture from <a href="http://www.fingaskcastle.co.uk/" target="_blank">Fingask Castle</a> in Perthshire by <a href="http://www.jennibrowne.com/" target="_blank">Jenni Browne</a>)</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Make your vows short and sweet too. You can almost certainly say what you want to say in a few sentences and there's less chance of breaking down.</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Don't forget that your vows can be light hearted if you want them to be. Most couples chose serious words during this part of the ceremony, but if you want to promise to "disobey" each other or to "have and to hold, to tickle and to squeeze", then that's fine! One of you (let's face it girls, this means you!) might want to promise to curb your shopping habit and the other one (no prizes for guessing who!) to watch a bit less footy on the TV. You can of course say "Aye" rather than "I do" too! Pretty much whatever feels right for you is fine by me!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">In addition to your personal vows, you are also required to make a legal declaration to each other (see my posting about the legal procedures) and I usually do this in a 'repeat after me' format. Many couples find this format very reassuring because you can't really go wrong - there's no pressure on you to remember anything. And by the way, I usually use the words "solemnly and sincerely declare" at this point, but if you'd prefer, you can also use "proudly and without hesitation", "joyfully and sincerely" or "happily and with an open heart"..... What is required under the Marriage Act is that you make a declaration to accept each other as husband and wife and slight variations in the wording are usually allowable.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Whatever worries and concerns you have about your vows, discuss them with your Celebrant and you'll find that they will give you all sorts of advice and help!</span></div>
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<i style="color: #29303b; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;">To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i><br />
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</span>Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-68948669157608234112008-06-27T16:14:00.061+01:002020-05-24T10:05:20.231+01:00What do we need to do about the legal procedures?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2KmNzA8GSmRN0J4kE0f37hA5ifHMJDdAVr75fjkhcfsFRr21XqtXe_02zKJ0xPZlNJOKtNfq7-e1xagn3IVVN6o5v768PlFr-cscNvfDrkjGf0jLQscpr46R9VMsWmBoOeVLIR-AdVRL/s1600/2010-07-03_Officer_wedding_116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2KmNzA8GSmRN0J4kE0f37hA5ifHMJDdAVr75fjkhcfsFRr21XqtXe_02zKJ0xPZlNJOKtNfq7-e1xagn3IVVN6o5v768PlFr-cscNvfDrkjGf0jLQscpr46R9VMsWmBoOeVLIR-AdVRL/s320/2010-07-03_Officer_wedding_116.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"> (Picture by <a href="http://www.weirphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Martin Weir Photography</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">The legal procedures for all weddings in Scotland fall under the <b>Marriage and Civil Partnership (Scotland) Act 2014</b>. We sometimes get inquiries from couples abroad or in England and Wales who are concerned about the legalities. This is because Humanist marriages aren't yet legal south of the border and in fact, Scotland is one of only 8 countries in the world where you can legally marry in a Humanist ceremony. So </span>if you're not from Scotland, just a few points to reassure you :</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Yes, we can legally marry you!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Yes, a Humanist ceremony conducted by a Celebrant of Humanist Society Scotland is fully legal.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Yes, that means that your marriage has legal status in the same way as if you were to marry in any other part of the UK or in a religious or civil ceremony (with a Registrar).</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">No, you don't need to have a separate ceremony with a Registrar, as you currently do south of the border.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">No, there are no residence requirements, so you don't have to live in Scotland in order to legally marry here.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you need further clarification - I'm always happy to help!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">As far as the legal procedure is concerned, the first thing to stress is that it's all very straightforward and the following points should help you through the process:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Marriage Notices</span><br />
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In order to be legally married, you need to obtain Marriage Notice (M10) forms. You fill one in each - basically to inform the registrar that you want to marry each other! It is always advisable to phone the Registrar before submitting your Marriage Notices, to make sure that you have all the necessary supporting documents and to check their fees. This is what the Marriage Notice Form looks like:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold;">The Marriage Schedule</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Marriage Schedule is the document that you, your Celebrant and your two witnesses sign on the day and this is what it looks like (though yours won't have 'specimen' written all over it obviously!):</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Marriage Certificate</span><br />
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You will be sent your Marriage Certificate when the Marriage Schedule has been submitted to the Registrar after the wedding. This is the document you get to keep, your proof that you are legally married!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold;">What if we aren't UK citizens?</span><br />
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It is important to check carefully with the Registrar to see what additional documentation you need in order to marry in Scotland. You will need evidence of your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">nationality</span> and if you are not a European (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">EEA</span></span></span></span></span></span>) citizen, other documentation will also be required. The website for the <a href="http://nationalrecordsofscotland.gov.uk/registration/getting-married-in-scotland/my-partner-andor-i-are-foreign-nationals-who-do-not-live-in-the-uk-can-we-get-married-in-scotland" target="_blank">National Records of Scotland</a> gives useful information and guidelines on this.<br />
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It would also be advisable to phone the local Registrar for advice too and you should do this as soon as you possibly can so that there is no danger of the paperwork not being through on time!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold;">When do we have to submit our paperwork?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You can't submit the paperwork until <span style="font-weight: bold;">12 weeks before the wedding, </span>but you can get the forms all ready to send off. You can collect a marriage pack from the Registrar or go onto the website for the <a href="http://nationalrecordsofscotland.gov.uk/registration/getting-married-in-scotland/how-do-i-go-about-it" target="_blank">National Records of Scotland</a> to download everything.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The guidelines suggest that you submit your Marriage Notices to the Registrar 4-6 weeks before the wedding, but it can be done <span style="font-weight: bold;">12 weeks before</span> and personally, I always advise couples to do it as early as possible within this time. It's an important job that you can then tick off your TO DO list!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Marriage Schedule (the document you sign on your wedding day) is usually available to collect from the Registrar about <span style="font-weight: bold;">a week before the wedding</span> and you will need to collect it in person (either you or your partner, not necessarily both of you). All you have to do then is to remember to bring it along on the day! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.jillcherryporterphotography.com/" target="_blank">Jill Porter</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Celebrant</span> will almost certainly remind you about it - but bear in mind that they will not be able to legally marry you without the Marriage Schedule! In fact, they wouldn't even be able to pretend to do so and catch up with the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">paperwork</span> later on - solemnising a marriage without the necessary documentation is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">actually</span> a criminal offence, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">believe</span> it or not! So, don't give us a heart attack on that one folks! Remember to collect your Marriage Schedule from the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Registrar</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">remember</span> to bring it along on the day of the wedding!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The signed Marriage Schedule then has to be returned to the same <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Registrar</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">within 3 days of the marriage</span> taking place (note, 3<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>days, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">NOT</span> 3 <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">working</span> days!) and anyone can do this for you, so you can <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">breath</span> a sigh of relief if you're going away on honeymoon immediately after the wedding and don't have time to do it yourselves! Well, you can if you've entrusted this important job to someone responsible anyway! Once the Registrar has your signed Marriage Schedule, they can register your marriage and issue your Marriage <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Certificate</span>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: bold;">Which Registrar do we submit our Marriage Notices to?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It is important to submit the paperwork to the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">right</span> Registrar and one quick phone call to them in advance will put you right. Basically, it has to be a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Registrar</span> within the Registration <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">District</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">where</span> the wedding is to take <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">place</span> - i.e. <span style="font-weight: bold;">not the one local to your home</span>, but <span style="font-weight: bold;">the one local to the wedding venue</span>. Registration Districts cover large areas and there will be several Registration Offices in each district. You can submit your paperwork to any one of these offices, as long as it is the right Registration <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">District</span> for the venue. So, for example, if you were getting married at the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Roman</span> Camp Hotel in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Callander</span></span></span>, it would make sense to submit your Marriage Notices to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Callander</span></span></span> Registrar, but you could, if you wanted to, submit them to any other Register Office in the Stirling district, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">including</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Aberfoyle</span></span></span> or <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Dunblane</span></span></span> for example.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Registration districts are now aligned with Local Authority areas and the main Register Officer for venues in the central belt are as follows:</span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><u>Stirling</u></span> – Customer First Shop, 1-5 Port Street,<st1:address st="on"> <st1:city st="on">Stirling</st1:city>, <st1:postalcode st="on"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">FK</span></span></span></span></span>8 2EJ</st1:postalcode></st1:address>. Tel. 01786 432343. Email: <a href="mailto:registrar@stirling.gov.uk">registrar@stirling.gov.uk</a> Website: <a href="http://www.stirling.gov.uk/wedding.htm" target="_blank">Stirling Registrar</a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><u><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Alloa</span></span></span></span></span></u></span> – <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Marshill</span></span></span></span></span> House, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Alloa</span></span></span></span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">FK</span></span></span></span>10 1AB. Tel. 01259 723850. Email: <a href="mailto:registration@clacks.gov.uk">registration@clacks.gov.uk</a> Website: <a href="http://www.clacksweb.org.uk/regulation/marriages/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Alloa</span></span></span></span> Registrar</a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><u><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Falkirk</span></span></span></span></u></span> – <st1:place st="on"><st1:placename st="on">Old</st1:placename> <st1:placename st="on">Burgh</st1:placename> <st1:placetype st="on">Buildings</st1:placetype></st1:place>, <st1:address st="on"><st1:street st="on"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_28"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Newmarket</span></span></span></span> Street</st1:street>, <st1:city st="on"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Falkirk</span></span></span></span></st1:city>, <st1:postalcode st="on"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">FK</span></span></span></span>1 1<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">JE</span></span></span></span></st1:postalcode></st1:address>. Tel 01324 506580. Email: <a href="mailto:registration@falkirk.gov.uk">registration@falkirk.gov.uk</a> Website:<a href="http://www.falkirk.gov.uk/services/chief_executive/governance/customer_and_development_services/marriages/marriages.aspx" target="_blank">Falkirk Registrar</a><o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><st1:place st="on"><st1:city st="on"><u>Perth</u></st1:city></st1:place><u> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_33"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">Kinross</span></span></span></span></u></span> – <st1:address st="on"><st1:street st="on">5 High Street</st1:street>, <st1:city st="on">Perth</st1:city>, <st1:postalcode st="on">PH1 5<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_34"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">JS</span></span></span></span></st1:postalcode></st1:address>. Tel. 01738 475121. Email: <a href="mailto:perth-registrars@pkc.gov.uk">perth-registrars@pkc.gov.uk</a> Website: <a href="http://www.pkc.gov.uk/article/3059/Registration-offices" target="_blank">Perth and Kinross Registrars</a></span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Where can we get married?<br />
</span>If you choose a Humanist ceremony, don't forget that the venue doesn't have to have any kind of licence. This means that you can have a legal Humanist marriage <span style="font-weight: bold;">ANYWHERE IN SCOTLAND</span> and the only proviso is that the location is "safe and dignified".<br />
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It is important to stress that the marriage MUST take place on the date and in the place detailed on the Marriage schedule. So for example, if you plan to marry outdoors and have a contingency plan to move to another location indoors if the weather is bad, you will need to double check those arrangements with the Registrar <span style="font-weight: bold;">before</span> the day.<br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">What happens on the day?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">On the day of the wedding, it is vital to remember to bring along the Marriage Schedule and to hand it to your Marriage Celebrant before the ceremony. You need <span style="font-weight: bold;">2 people to witness</span> and sign it and they can be anyone, known or unknown to you, related or unrelated, as long as they are <span style="font-weight: bold;">16 years of age or over</span>. The Registrar may ask you for the details of the witnesses before the day of the wedding.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(and yes, the wee one in the background definitely isn't old enough to be a witness!)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> As part of the Humanist ceremony and in addition to whatever personal vows or promises you wish to make, you will each be asked to make a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">declaration</span> to the other. This is a legal necessity and the declaration is normally along the lines of repeating the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">following statement</span> after the Celebrant:<br />
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<span style="font-style: italic;">"I Mary Jane Jones / solemnly and sincerely declare / that I </span><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25" style="font-style: italic;">accept</span><span style="font-style: italic;"> you Peter John Smith / in marriage to be my lawfully wedded husband"</span><br />
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Once you have each made such a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_26">declaration</span>, the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_27">Celebrant</span> is required to make a declaration that you are legally married and to pronounce you husband and wife - and I can <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_29">safely</span> say that this makes our job the best in the world! It's a pleasure and a privilege!<br />
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<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_30">Immediately</span> after these <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_31">declarations</span>, the Marriage Schedule is then signed. I've had a few unusual signing tables over the years by the way, including </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">in santa's grotto, on </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">the trig point at the top of </span><a href="http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/fife-stirling/dumyat.shtml" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">Dumyat</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> near Stirling (just before the rain soaked us to the skin!) and on the bride's (yes, the bride's) Suzuki Intruder motorbike!</span><br />
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As regards the signing, please note the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_32">following</span>:<br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Signing: </span>the bride signs in her maiden name or the name she was known by before the wedding (a previous married name for example). In other words girls, you don’t sign in your new married name (if you’re changing it of course)! The Schedule is also signed by the Celebrant and by the two witnesses.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">The pen:</span> A special pen is required for the signing, but your Celebrant will supply it. It has to be a permanent black ink pen and if the Registrar mentions it, you can reassure them that your Celebrant has such a pen!</span></li>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">The signatures: </span>There may also be a signature form with the Schedule – so that the Registrar can decipher your signatures (do you sign as Mary Jane Jones, M. Jones or M.J. Jones for example?) Your Celebrant should fill this form in for you.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMjz2VOZEBpCP-4pgjGxwKa5c4yHqwtrjRZecwj_3zdeqH1lRvzq8UHH3x0-dwoVNBlUTZ1fEFiRzCuqbiaD2XJV-ZuFXMP1QUJj03oWudb7w23maBRijln6yEy1d2ph9ycY66Liqu8tu6/s320/Happy+at+work2.jpg" /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">This woman is very happy at her work! (aye, it's me!)</span><br />
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Returning the Schedule:</span> Once the Marriage Schedule has been signed, it is essential that it is returned to the same Registrar who issued it, <span style="font-weight: bold;">within 3 days of the wedding</span>. If you are unable to return it yourself, you will need to ask someone trustworthy and responsible to do it for you. The Celebrant will ask who that person is and ensure that the Schedule is in their safekeeping after the ceremony. Once the Registrar has the signed Marriage Schedule, they will then prepare and issue a copy of the Marriage Certificate - and now that you're legally married, you can celebrate and live happily ever after!</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxmAQRFO84wtVYsL8rgnKh0NWxQDOb32dADHsxiJaJ9MoEnuFbJxELZg7h2L2q9BGOsWv2bvWFCH5M3N3a7UUlnh6-Do7BhXN6ZD5AylTINlsa1V8N7AZrsa3UgMF5jlCQXA21CsrS_Mr/s1600-h/Celebrate.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5222424542648791970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIxmAQRFO84wtVYsL8rgnKh0NWxQDOb32dADHsxiJaJ9MoEnuFbJxELZg7h2L2q9BGOsWv2bvWFCH5M3N3a7UUlnh6-Do7BhXN6ZD5AylTINlsa1V8N7AZrsa3UgMF5jlCQXA21CsrS_Mr/s320/Celebrate.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(This is Mike and Alison Swan after their 2006 wedding at <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/doune/dounecastle/" target="_blank">Doune Castle</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">What if we have any questions?</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span">If you have any queries about the legal stuff, you Celebrant might be able to help, but the first port of call should ideally be the Registrar. The contact details of all </span><span class="Apple-style-span">Registrars</span><span class="Apple-style-span"> in Scotland and advice of a more general nature can be found on the website for the <a href="http://nationalrecordsofscotland.gov.uk/files//registration/reglist.pdf" target="_blank">National Records of Scotland</a></span></span><br />
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-59186091156874515742008-04-18T18:42:00.020+01:002020-05-24T10:05:52.270+01:00How can we incorporate candle lighting into our ceremony?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmOfEvEjFzynAUhpG4Sah_0yTE2b538Zus-GIcYBBq8kFxirMzsnDzMD16mZ4CyvcpbmGsclerH6kSh3aHoFtu2JUpz_Ju1e8Sz8FU9qVCZLfVROAlNCS3JjN_aEmw_ocjK6_mygaDU2h/s1600-h/Candles9.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223183863297578658" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAmOfEvEjFzynAUhpG4Sah_0yTE2b538Zus-GIcYBBq8kFxirMzsnDzMD16mZ4CyvcpbmGsclerH6kSh3aHoFtu2JUpz_Ju1e8Sz8FU9qVCZLfVROAlNCS3JjN_aEmw_ocjK6_mygaDU2h/s320/Candles9.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The lighting of candles is a lovely symbolic gesture to include in your ceremony. I usually suggest that you each light a candle near the start of the ceremony to symbolise your separate lives before your marriage. Here's a short <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhnekvZrz00" target="_blank">youtube clip</a> of Alison and David lighting their individual candles at Airth Castle (video by <a href="http://www.sharpfocusva.co.uk/index.html" target="_blank">Sharp Focus</a>). It's just before they then go on to exchange their vows and wedding rings, so you can watch that too. Although the video clip stops when I pronounce them husband and wife, they went on to light a third candle after that, to symbolise the joining together of their lives in marriage. The 'marriage' or 'unity' candle is lit by each of you taking a flame from each of the first two candles and lighting the third one together. This makes a nice photograph as you can see in this picture of Margaret and Jay during their wedding at the historic <a href="http://www.nts.org.uk/Property/3/" target="_blank"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Alloa</span> Tower</a></span></div>
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<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5190645752596894178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR2mFxNzX5omyNkRCNIrCDuYIeC5de_WqaIVzzXHBkTPsz-xzQWW2r6eGsnMfrfzWO16Oo1tSe47NFvW1rp7UGxrMOS7LPKFLlN3VSK3R8seZGw5Eyi8DhvTZkeLagV835d3JRZEzXd5kF/s320/Candles5.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Or this one of Fiona and Paul at their wedding at the <a href="http://www.millenniumhotels.co.uk/millenniumglasgow/index.html" target="_blank">The Millennium Hotel</a> in Glasgow:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCb9hJI0rOsBmlIkf-MYiWB-lwfuY98aJEepXdIpztdtnqLXgLOw_xZtNh5rn1xawhYM4ip7apfLkluNetumMuaCNhLebXuLUU_7TWVhsMq3WIJnVCtV9ZCj63uI3V53jxpAK20rhnSHFo/s1600-h/candles.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383116989960692194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCb9hJI0rOsBmlIkf-MYiWB-lwfuY98aJEepXdIpztdtnqLXgLOw_xZtNh5rn1xawhYM4ip7apfLkluNetumMuaCNhLebXuLUU_7TWVhsMq3WIJnVCtV9ZCj63uI3V53jxpAK20rhnSHFo/s320/candles.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 227px;" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I suggest that you buy your own candles (it's nice to have them to light on your anniversary for years to come!) and when you go shopping, the things to bear in mind are:<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's nice if you have two candles that are the same and one that is different - in colour, size, shape or design</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You need holders or stands for your candles</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-DaPyPL7rzodCsGz_N1DIulCOHMKX01c1tJtisvEIP8HmAjva8w1KMMOQYXo-VsgB8J9ZBxkW7gFZ__sonOcIqvl7nbwFBArvJCqrdiiqLviUKvYPo5X1WZXmgYYLTyPPp-E5aOeLd3y/s1600-h/Candles3.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5190655089855795762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY-DaPyPL7rzodCsGz_N1DIulCOHMKX01c1tJtisvEIP8HmAjva8w1KMMOQYXo-VsgB8J9ZBxkW7gFZ__sonOcIqvl7nbwFBArvJCqrdiiqLviUKvYPo5X1WZXmgYYLTyPPp-E5aOeLd3y/s320/Candles3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></span></a><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You can even have the candles personalised for your wedding:</span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHHNsKoSAEMuTYKfYzZajCMw82prFY6rsZm2dYwtF-tsYM0A0J0rXtKMHljijbmDJp_Wi3vq8bFyGOcZH70R5rx5eklIKuQIUam0eQhPAUIqRWCB2762J0xjmXNoZfEZvD7al-Vcw5t-K/s1600-h/Candles+personalised.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383117510428186626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLHHNsKoSAEMuTYKfYzZajCMw82prFY6rsZm2dYwtF-tsYM0A0J0rXtKMHljijbmDJp_Wi3vq8bFyGOcZH70R5rx5eklIKuQIUam0eQhPAUIqRWCB2762J0xjmXNoZfEZvD7al-Vcw5t-K/s320/Candles+personalised.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></span></a><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You need to arrange or ask the venue to arrange a table for them to be placed on during the ceremony and it's nice to provide some decoration - a nice cloth, some flowers etc..</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You don't need to worry about where to get a flame from and we won't be asking anyone for a cigarette lighter during the ceremony! I'll supply the tapers (as shown in the Alloa Tower picture above) and I'll have a tea light burning throughout the ceremony</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Florists can sometimes incorporate candles into flower arrangements for weddings, as shown in these lovely examples:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCTB0OPCmBZIQHT5gkMqOJ1AM0M1n0j958vrph6mEzs0kW6fe4fvWquxIdrQk4OpinvfDrhgmxXf0zCagrBCqJjuIrUqA_RmGwrAh2QwwC_oicwtwgIQKPthaREj2QWrCUWGE7hlXIdD8/s1600-h/Candles2.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5190651632407122434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxCTB0OPCmBZIQHT5gkMqOJ1AM0M1n0j958vrph6mEzs0kW6fe4fvWquxIdrQk4OpinvfDrhgmxXf0zCagrBCqJjuIrUqA_RmGwrAh2QwwC_oicwtwgIQKPthaREj2QWrCUWGE7hlXIdD8/s320/Candles2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></span></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiWNMEibfMe5C3FRph6Lw0yH4ISSwOOFTJ8VY_6pw5-j-XiPh1rmyHBqvwEaQVfsTTsqWu_Z-1Cmy3Orz8Fb-pwjFCvqV9l4fyU-T-Jrk3ytHzaNnTyzQm5dHLZY21vfIa5QIUd5trVC1/s1600-h/Candles.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5190651314579542514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiiWNMEibfMe5C3FRph6Lw0yH4ISSwOOFTJ8VY_6pw5-j-XiPh1rmyHBqvwEaQVfsTTsqWu_Z-1Cmy3Orz8Fb-pwjFCvqV9l4fyU-T-Jrk3ytHzaNnTyzQm5dHLZY21vfIa5QIUd5trVC1/s320/Candles.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">One thing to bear in mind with candles is the hazard of having naked flame:<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you have a veil, keep well away from the candles!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Keep any children amongst your guests well away from them too!<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Some candle wicks smoke badly when they're blown out, so watch out for smoke alarms being set off!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Some hotels ban the lighting of candles anyway, so double check with your venue beforehand. <a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/index/places/hire/weddings.htm" target="_blank">Historic Scotland</a> have now banned the use of candles in their properties in order to prevent damage to precious stone work and antique furnishings. If candles aren't allowed at your venue, but you still want to decorate the room, you could consider the use of fairy lights or flameless candles. <span class="Apple-style-span">There is now a huge range of these battery operated candles on the market and although these are obviously not suitable to use as a symbolic gesture in your ceremony (flicking a switch just doesn't have the same feeling does it?!), they look lovely as a way of decorating your venue. A quick Google search will reveal lots of choice! Look at <a href="http://www.smartcandle.co.uk/?gclid=CLP4lf6-i6MCFRJi4wodVV-n8w" target="_blank">Smart Candle</a> for example. I think they can look quite good and some people won't even notice that they aren't real candles. Here are some at Doune Castle:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you're outdoors, candles can of course blow out easily, so think about having garden candles, oil burning candles, storm lanterns or something similar to protect the flame. The ones in this vase for example stayed lit during the whole ceremony and it was quite breezy!</span></div>
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</span>Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-59841500248717548872008-04-13T09:36:00.025+01:002020-05-24T10:06:12.374+01:00How do we choose readings and poetry?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">There is such a vast array of lovely wedding poetry out there that you may find yourselves spoiled for choice! Alternatively, you might find yourselves having to wade through huge numbers of unsuitable readings (some religious, some cheesy, some just badly written) on the internet. There are some very nice wedding poetry books on the market though and I particularly like, 'Handfast', which is a book of Scottish poetry for weddings (published by the </span><a href="http://www.spl.org.uk/" target="_blank">Scottish Poetry Library</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"> in 2004) and 'Heartsongs' by Pinky Agnew (published by Rider, 2006). The Humanist Society also have a huge collection of lovely non-religious poetry and readings to help you to find something appropriate for you. The most important thing is to choose poems that you like and that express your thoughts and feelings about each other and about your wedding day. Many couples chose to have 1 or 2 readings in the ceremony, but you could have more and of course you don't have to have any at all if it's not your thing!</span></span><br />
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You also need to consider carefully who is going to read for you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I quite often read all of the poetry and am very happy to do so - but many couples like to involve friends or a members of the family by asking them to read a poem during the ceremony.<br />
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It's an important thing to ask someone to do for you and there are a few things to consider:<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Choose someone you know won't feel too nervous on the day, someone who feels comfortable with public speaking.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Choose someone who you feel will do the poem justice, who will read it well for you.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Give them plenty of notice and send them a copy of what you'd like them to read. You could alternatively ask them to choose something for you and as well as being a really nice way of adding an element of surprise to the ceremony, this can also be very moving too.<br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ask the reader to contact the Celebrant before the ceremony to discuss where and when the reading will be placed and where they should stand etc..<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you have children (either your own or in your wider circle of friends or family) and would like to involve them in the ceremony, why not get them to do a reading for you? If you choose the reading carefully and the child is confident, it can add something very special to the ceremony. In fact, they will probably steal the show with the 'cute factor'! This is Hanni reading a poem for her mum and 'poppy' (as she calls her step dad) at their wedding at <a href="http://www.walkhighlands.co.uk/lochlomond/inchcailloch.shtml" target="_blank">Inchcailloch</a> island on Loch Lomond:<br />
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One of my all time favourite wedding poems is Christine de Luca's 'Journey' which is published in the <a href="http://www.spl.org.uk/" target="_blank">Scottish Poetry Library</a> book, 'Handfast':<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Today you see far down a mountainside,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Your sight is sharp, your goal clear, and tides<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">of love lap round all your desiring.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Two sets of footprints you will make, but true<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">companions on this journey you’ll become.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">When you slip out of step, think of today;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">relive again its close embrace of freedom.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">May truest feelings stir you as the wind<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">disturbs the loch, or smirr on cotton grass.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">May you find bliss in ordinariness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">and joy forever in its present tense.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><o:p>And here are the lovely Nicola and Simon, who chose this beautiful reading, beginning their journey after their wedding at </o:p><a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie Castle</a>:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7M-mRKDFHdysvcZeq8TNeW8MlUD80epUramNfEOO41q1bIlcajcshYGjxp2FD7NrA4d_hDeoK13akxq9elqtYH1FuTEjcTxh_WOjlaLQv1AW4zd7PShFrJUjq4EuemqvELYAYMo1In3O2/s1600-h/Nicola+and+Simon.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188652917836320818" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7M-mRKDFHdysvcZeq8TNeW8MlUD80epUramNfEOO41q1bIlcajcshYGjxp2FD7NrA4d_hDeoK13akxq9elqtYH1FuTEjcTxh_WOjlaLQv1AW4zd7PShFrJUjq4EuemqvELYAYMo1In3O2/s320/Nicola+and+Simon.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another idea to consider with readings is to have a verse that all your guests read together. This especially suits well wishings (or 'blessings' for want of a better word) at the end of your ceremony. The reading needs to be fairly short and sweet and you can either print the words in an Order of Ceremony or have it done in a 'repeat after me' format (i.e. the Celebrant reads a line and everyone repeats it). This is one of my personal favourites and it's by an unknown author:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>May your home be a place of happiness for all who enter it;</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br />
</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>a place where the old and young are renewed in each other’s company,</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br />
</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>a place for growing and a place for sharing, </i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i><br />
</i></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>a place for music, a place for laughter and a place for love.........</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Readings and poetry can add a lot to a wedding ceremony and there is such a vast choice out there that I'm sure you'll find something that is appropriately humanist and that suits you and the style of your big day!</span><br />
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<i style="color: #29303b; font-family: verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;">To return to the full page of posts, click on 'home' below or to move on to the next post, click 'older post': </i>Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-20622841139710257332008-04-06T11:52:00.033+01:002020-05-24T10:06:40.792+01:00Should we risk an outdoor wedding?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For many couples, an outdoor ceremony is their preferred option and it often adds a nicely relaxed air to the proceedings. If you have a particular affinity with the natural world, it might be really important to you to get married outdoors, with the sights and sounds of nature around you.<br />
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If you're in the grounds of a hotel, the venue may arrange to have seating and even a red carpet to create an aisle, but quite often the guests will simply stand in informal groups instead (perhaps with a few seats for elderly guests). An outdoor wedding always carries a risk though - what do you do if the weather is bad? You might be lucky and get a day like this at <a href="http://shieldaiglodge.com/" target="_blank">Shieldaig Lodge</a> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Gairloch</span> a few years ago:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lZiFRRrKwYRrlKkcPebcORizD34gFMEpN3RmxLDb7O8WOqYNL9y7szl2GZLjiLFeF8rUUuxCjykf-K_RaBdkM56aOtNLrxoL19MhGmTTNvNqgc9kbGH2BidBq0BzBKNl0EngKt-NQPtc/s1600-h/Lyyn+and+Callum+2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306772544751704210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7lZiFRRrKwYRrlKkcPebcORizD34gFMEpN3RmxLDb7O8WOqYNL9y7szl2GZLjiLFeF8rUUuxCjykf-K_RaBdkM56aOtNLrxoL19MhGmTTNvNqgc9kbGH2BidBq0BzBKNl0EngKt-NQPtc/s320/Lyyn+and+Callum+2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 214px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
We certainly needed the sunscreen that day and <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/usfeatures/midges/" target="_blank">midge</a> repellent comes in pretty handy in certain parts of Scotland (north and west mainly) and certain times of the year (summer months) too! Don't forget wasp swatting season either - some people are seriously freaked out by wasps!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The following wedding of Kelly and John at the <a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Roman Camp Hotel</a> in Callander was another lovely day and the sun sparkling off the water gave the whole wedding a magical quality.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSSVv5naMQlgqCthQ6MZhGDmDOa-4FqoksBq-NteHLqW79mkOxNMmKmc-jaspeNG1yUiKFBtfeY3Gjsos7JW0LDxVEilIfWhNYBvfpm91FaQGGpUIxKFn1pgsr17lmLJ4vhweGzhtY5mg/s1600-h/Roman+Camp+in+the+sun.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306785649697609170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdSSVv5naMQlgqCthQ6MZhGDmDOa-4FqoksBq-NteHLqW79mkOxNMmKmc-jaspeNG1yUiKFBtfeY3Gjsos7JW0LDxVEilIfWhNYBvfpm91FaQGGpUIxKFn1pgsr17lmLJ4vhweGzhtY5mg/s320/Roman+Camp+in+the+sun.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 229px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(This wedding was also videoed by James at <a href="http://www.strangeworx.co.uk/videogallery.html" target="_blank">Strageworx Productions</a> and if you follow this link, you can see a web version of Kelly and John's DVD: <style>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Trossachs is full of wonderful locations for outdoor weddings and this stunning day at <a href="http://www.venachar-lochside.co.uk/" target="_blank">Loch Venachar</a> brought with it another challenge. It looks spectacular, but it was quite windy and Laura's veil was a bit troublesome at times! Not that she minded and she and her new husband Graeme had a great day!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qRJUlPU1UfwwN0kkZvw3e4LyGhu3Lq9oFu5NPfLcbEH3nHBvn7VUpgsW3AWSwbOEilZWddZernj8xigO0T_Xn7GTKVqic37Bef7OfbKNE3bdFBgHl9n2bE9AoCNg59CuQrmtiSpa-vP8/s1600/_DSC0659.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498545278553883058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7qRJUlPU1UfwwN0kkZvw3e4LyGhu3Lq9oFu5NPfLcbEH3nHBvn7VUpgsW3AWSwbOEilZWddZernj8xigO0T_Xn7GTKVqic37Bef7OfbKNE3bdFBgHl9n2bE9AoCNg59CuQrmtiSpa-vP8/s320/_DSC0659.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 213px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>(Photo by <a href="http://www.edward-smith.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ed Smith)</a> <br />
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That wasn't quite as challenging as the really windy day we had when Monica and Lars were married on the shores of Loch Lomond. But the sun shone for them, they laughed about it and it was a fabulous day!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_G_JHMsBZB1FC-8VJiLRxWWHfFhzJwC7SQiW0DmqJD7I_B1BPmatnIM_RLu4yVEZYxjvfO5DJbDZOql5viiRZebzW7a4z2FxY65JT6AvC90aHn7A6Y_Nl9mLsVbMDo4ajNLO1zmauSCg/s1600/IMG_19640.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498547144915815522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_G_JHMsBZB1FC-8VJiLRxWWHfFhzJwC7SQiW0DmqJD7I_B1BPmatnIM_RLu4yVEZYxjvfO5DJbDZOql5viiRZebzW7a4z2FxY65JT6AvC90aHn7A6Y_Nl9mLsVbMDo4ajNLO1zmauSCg/s320/IMG_19640.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 228px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">By the way, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">during heavy rainfall, Loch Lomond can be a lot higher than normal, as you can see in this photo! Fortunately the marquee we held the ceremony in didn't get washed away and the lovely view and the sound of the lapping waves made a wonderful backdrop:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZn1pS8-2Hdd5cA5g14I8z9oCC63igsWi0jR3DzNu4vvoDECPUN-rA8h1OmKwvQeYVI06G0GiufMUritex_DAmkcvdST5aTn0BmvQ2s46jxuXB_n4_b0pEDP1cJMOJ-iQPEXKDzTUB0Nik/s1600/waterfront+lodges+wedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZn1pS8-2Hdd5cA5g14I8z9oCC63igsWi0jR3DzNu4vvoDECPUN-rA8h1OmKwvQeYVI06G0GiufMUritex_DAmkcvdST5aTn0BmvQ2s46jxuXB_n4_b0pEDP1cJMOJ-iQPEXKDzTUB0Nik/s320/waterfront+lodges+wedding.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Of course, you might get a day of very heavy rain like this one, when Monica and Andy got married at the lochside at Glen Finglas in August 2007. We certainly needed the brollies that day (not to mention the thermal underwear!):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClVmEgsRFdXFR0Wq7q6VSX9MkvDF4nBKPg2gppkbymYUiGNu-S3SX0Fs0Az-EWNvMozmWmh0Hbh1p2CVJT9gEyhreZeF1TMz5e2Ox3f3FZsjp8rNsVQfKeauNM-SpaKdSveK7-4zsiyxC/s1600-h/Rainy+wedding.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306787015943300722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClVmEgsRFdXFR0Wq7q6VSX9MkvDF4nBKPg2gppkbymYUiGNu-S3SX0Fs0Az-EWNvMozmWmh0Hbh1p2CVJT9gEyhreZeF1TMz5e2Ox3f3FZsjp8rNsVQfKeauNM-SpaKdSveK7-4zsiyxC/s320/Rainy+wedding.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
And how about this one at Leckmelm Gardens in Ullapool that brought a whole new meaning to the expression 'white wedding'! It was freezing, but great fun!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHqK0psuObTm09yKr5XwQTHvWvNKXI_uIINZyiQntX9dbBQvAOFrIXK14Nlx1jNSIrat6f1OAzemPU2P-_E2hjO5XdmRqHmRaHgZrkPQ9lliGzfP0rtjpQnU1adx2OjPkIp42iBCRD8Vi/s1600-h/whote+wedding.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5306787384030654706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHqK0psuObTm09yKr5XwQTHvWvNKXI_uIINZyiQntX9dbBQvAOFrIXK14Nlx1jNSIrat6f1OAzemPU2P-_E2hjO5XdmRqHmRaHgZrkPQ9lliGzfP0rtjpQnU1adx2OjPkIp42iBCRD8Vi/s320/whote+wedding.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />I also conducted the very first wedding ever to take place at <a href="https://www.snowfactor.com/" target="_blank">Snow Factor at Braehead</a> recently and it might have been indoors, but it's real snow of course and it was freezing! By the way, Karen and Mark ended the ceremony by blasting Billy Idol's 'White Wedding' over the venue sound system and I think the skiers and snowboarders loved it as much as the guests did!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJosoi0bZKLgjMsTlNs3uPULzmW9JyipyBUw477ajcTf5w1VmagUVXPoj1frJsjKnXZR7ZPQ_w63TwMltTIz5WXUg7zj-QOV7xb_s7_D_emqBj925u47VqGnWJ9vshmoaSh7u03XidLxNN/s1600/white+wedding2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJosoi0bZKLgjMsTlNs3uPULzmW9JyipyBUw477ajcTf5w1VmagUVXPoj1frJsjKnXZR7ZPQ_w63TwMltTIz5WXUg7zj-QOV7xb_s7_D_emqBj925u47VqGnWJ9vshmoaSh7u03XidLxNN/s1600/white+wedding2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Anyway, if you're considering an outdoor wedding, the following might be worth bearing in mind:<br />
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<li face="verdana">Have a good contingency plan - some sort of shelter or an indoor space that could be used for the ceremony if the weather is really bad. Don't forget that the weather can change really quickly too, as it did here at Kinlochard. We had one of those open sided canopies for cover but it was a bit leaky and everyone at the edge got wet! Fortunately, the sun came out again in time for the ceremony - phew!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJyfAaWufECTxyjWptQRUecw-h5EiqeHw0828E9tia6wdtYVt2hcXz_GvMEVGxJuEjL7EDHRzqch218sNVN82LhW8LHBdNXchwMRabLkpMuqXu1mIeti1Rjl11jUlAhzx5h5bWy0342BRM/s1600/Kinlochard+rain.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJyfAaWufECTxyjWptQRUecw-h5EiqeHw0828E9tia6wdtYVt2hcXz_GvMEVGxJuEjL7EDHRzqch218sNVN82LhW8LHBdNXchwMRabLkpMuqXu1mIeti1Rjl11jUlAhzx5h5bWy0342BRM/s1600/Kinlochard+rain.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXQ20KzBsWKozywsMiizOp0Nq1DGOLHZDlyAFUEAZmakriFThyphenhyphenLA60zoQZrVSfuuJL-5s9_l_4xCesXHG_xJrawK0KLWHC0E6A5_KK1LhFPLqCB6pWJoFnGRu54nY_q8zEe79UeqOPsQe/s1600/Kinlochard+sun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXQ20KzBsWKozywsMiizOp0Nq1DGOLHZDlyAFUEAZmakriFThyphenhyphenLA60zoQZrVSfuuJL-5s9_l_4xCesXHG_xJrawK0KLWHC0E6A5_KK1LhFPLqCB6pWJoFnGRu54nY_q8zEe79UeqOPsQe/s1600/Kinlochard+sun.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><br />
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<ul style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
<li face="verdana">If you're still keen to have the ceremony outside, consider a more sheltered spot, under some trees perhaps</li>
<li face="verdana">I have a few fabulous flowery or plain white wedding brollies that you're welcome to borrow<br />
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<li>You could delay the ceremony slightly in case the weather improves - this might be possible if your guests and Celebrant are willing. Do bear in mind the comfort of your guests though, especially anyone elderly. If you leave them waiting in the cold for too long, they might need an extra large dram (or three) to warm up afterwards!</li>
<li>By the way, cold is one thing, but heat is another. Having an outdoor wedding on a really hot sunny day can be just as unpleasant and uncomfortable for everyone - so think sun screen, insect repellent, shade and keeping to time!</li>
<li>You could just go for it regardless of course, but you'll need to warn your guests to bring their waterproofs, brollies, sensible shoes and thermals! You'll still have great fun! This is a very happy Paul and Vikki getting married on Inchmahome Island - we all got very wet, but it was a wedding to remember!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxCPfSd9hvtM1nNJMSiFmGdXGKF_sijOLeMIoG5v_XqX_5ulGFbHvOxqTJrn_VYk9w6ZrURMyxmVYUiHBmw8uoME8wq5muYpns02axIhvvCLh6fXRWbZG51dYdM21anUn5lSmY00ypzTMB/s1600-h/Rainy+wedding.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382432293121210162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxCPfSd9hvtM1nNJMSiFmGdXGKF_sijOLeMIoG5v_XqX_5ulGFbHvOxqTJrn_VYk9w6ZrURMyxmVYUiHBmw8uoME8wq5muYpns02axIhvvCLh6fXRWbZG51dYdM21anUn5lSmY00ypzTMB/s320/Rainy+wedding.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 222px;" /></a><br />
By the way, it is considered good luck for it to rain on your wedding day! And there's nothing wrong with a bride in wellies! This is Lynne and Adam after their wedding at the fabulous <a href="http://mhor.net/" target="_blank">Monachyle Mhor</a> near Balquhidder:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXjXFtvztZAq_z59vNk4O_DeY8cfT9AnvW14V17ot4-zer3HZWVn_lneGyQo9YDaYmRb1JBk5W1XbwW2zVRmN4y9x0pu4AqhmrdQDdluuVx2dKFvBVsQ2IGF4JNLquQ8M3mz8suACs_n9B/s1600-h/Wellies.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382434097786405986" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXjXFtvztZAq_z59vNk4O_DeY8cfT9AnvW14V17ot4-zer3HZWVn_lneGyQo9YDaYmRb1JBk5W1XbwW2zVRmN4y9x0pu4AqhmrdQDdluuVx2dKFvBVsQ2IGF4JNLquQ8M3mz8suACs_n9B/s320/Wellies.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 198px;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As well as considering the comfort of your guests during an outdoor wedding, it's also worthwhile thinking about the following:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>The venue staff</b> - there can sometimes be a lot of work involved for the venue if you're deciding between an indoor and outdoor option at the last minute. Best to make a decision one way or the other in plenty of time for them to rearrange furniture etc...</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>The Celebrant</b> - make sure that your Celebrant is happy to conduct the ceremony outside. Not everyone has a voice as loud as mine (!) and you might even need to consider some form of amplification. Having conducted many outdoor weddings over the years, I've found that it can be challenging to create the same warm and intimate atmosphere as for an indoor ceremony. I always feel that it takes something away from the romantic feeling of the ceremony when I have to belt it out to make sure everyone can hear me!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>You</b> - think about yourself too! It's such a shame when couples (let's be honest, it's usually us girls!) get all stressed and worried about the weather for a week before the big day! Try not to worry, give yourself a deadline to make the indoor/outdoor decision (and stick to it) and relax - your wedding will be a wonderful happy occasion regardless of the weather! Above all, stop checking the weather forecast - it's usually wrong anyway!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>The Registrar </b>- w</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">hatever you do, warn the Registrar if the location could be subject to a last minute change because of the weather and ask their advice. It is vital that the wedding takes place on the date and in the location shown on the Marriage Schedule and any changes have to be agreed in advance. It's also important to ensure that the Schedule doesn't get wet or damaged in any way, so ensure that it's properly protected if you're outside. If you're going for an outdoor ceremony regardless of the weather, consider investing in a waterproof clipboard (<a href="https://www.weatherwriter.co.uk/" target="_blank">Weatherwriter</a>)</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Outdoor weddings are still possible e</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ven in cold and windy weather of course, such as this day when Paul and Karen were married on the stunningly beautiful <a href="http://www.loch-lomond.net/theloch/inchcailloch.aspx" target="_blank">Inchcailloch Island</a> on Loch <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Lomond</span>. The picture below shows the lovely wedding party on the summit (what a view!), but it was much too windy to conduct the ceremony there, so we retreated to the more sheltered beach on the other side of the island. And we managed to conduct the ceremony just before the first day trippers arrived with their picnics and BBQ stuff! It was a lovely wedding - relaxed and intimate, with only their friends (who acted as witnesses), their little girls, me and the photographers (Willie and Cara <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">McGlaughlin</span>) present.<br />
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-50052760834856287542008-04-06T11:13:00.025+01:002020-05-24T10:06:55.826+01:00What if I get emotional on the day?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXfv1tuO14fDNSrV1QwzTCqrhqV57jlJMGRv-xLLDoJVelMiOUFKQ1oTlarYaY5IAR4spwA7YWOEa7zJc2mMrCTEzSeLiUiUST3bTTw3r60zEW3pBKEA8M-G9q-3bjq2fKu89D-Xl2M7yZ/s1600-h/emotional.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189222001003040930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXfv1tuO14fDNSrV1QwzTCqrhqV57jlJMGRv-xLLDoJVelMiOUFKQ1oTlarYaY5IAR4spwA7YWOEa7zJc2mMrCTEzSeLiUiUST3bTTw3r60zEW3pBKEA8M-G9q-3bjq2fKu89D-Xl2M7yZ/s320/emotional.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">No worries! Feeling emotional on your wedding day is natural and I’ll always have tissues at the ready! So far my record is a five hankie wedding by the way! They were all for the bride on that occasion, but actually, it’s often the grooms who go first – so be warned guys! </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">The bride's entry is often the point at which the guys need a tissue: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.amforbes.com/" target="_blank">Angus Forbes</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;">Read on for more on this subject and to view a video clip of one of my weddings.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The emotions can get to you at any time during the ceremony. Mind you, I think Patrick's tears during his marriage to the lovely Alison at the </span><a href="http://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/our-hotels/macdonald-forest-hills-hotel-resort/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">Forest Hills Hotel</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> in Kinlochard were actually tears of joy!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFwkA1daHCumMYCUTnqn1q4TaQryECsyqlYqGWh1CXABpzysKZnchmsAp85JnQ5Cv51o7cU9OzAvtZHUWKb_JZRySvTeas3WgjB9YT988gSHhfgBFoGaZN80KKPkJW9PodjaPijG5A-oRp/s1600/Tears+of+joy+by+Alan+Hutchinson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFwkA1daHCumMYCUTnqn1q4TaQryECsyqlYqGWh1CXABpzysKZnchmsAp85JnQ5Cv51o7cU9OzAvtZHUWKb_JZRySvTeas3WgjB9YT988gSHhfgBFoGaZN80KKPkJW9PodjaPijG5A-oRp/s320/Tears+of+joy+by+Alan+Hutchinson.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.alanhutchison.co.uk/" target="_blank">Alan Hutchison</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">He was a very happy boy at the end of the ceremony anyway!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf72LzqifV9a6TbYEX1MY6VZ9FkHokC2x2YMc3_0wsNun6ElLBsuIP-FO7NYG7khoN1EHU7tNjCtYQU8X94pGkWw39a-_61mMveF9BSX5nCph9bgZ_1v_LyvlKyf5q06DapKYUmeF1xhJ5/s1600/Alison_and_Patrick_Wedding_Finals-116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf72LzqifV9a6TbYEX1MY6VZ9FkHokC2x2YMc3_0wsNun6ElLBsuIP-FO7NYG7khoN1EHU7tNjCtYQU8X94pGkWw39a-_61mMveF9BSX5nCph9bgZ_1v_LyvlKyf5q06DapKYUmeF1xhJ5/s320/Alison_and_Patrick_Wedding_Finals-116.jpg" width="212" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by <a href="http://www.alanhutchison.co.uk/" target="_blank">Alan Hutchison</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And Christine and Kenny's tears at their wedding at the <a href="http://www.aurorahotelcollection.co.uk/our-hotels/coach-house/" target="_blank">Glenbervie Coach House</a> were definitely tears of laughter:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBaQ8opvuNkmKxBImeHGYHpBPYxSj0cD8Fubejyl5gZNqkA-5zeGlo63rLnwD6LXoaK3aC0DiJLjk4GDrOiXyZRjndE_14qbzr_-vKTqwBjdsIP2zaOoENZzPCzgb0QsHqRqL5z0AgW29/s1600/tears+of+laughter+2+by+Martin+Weir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibBaQ8opvuNkmKxBImeHGYHpBPYxSj0cD8Fubejyl5gZNqkA-5zeGlo63rLnwD6LXoaK3aC0DiJLjk4GDrOiXyZRjndE_14qbzr_-vKTqwBjdsIP2zaOoENZzPCzgb0QsHqRqL5z0AgW29/s320/tears+of+laughter+2+by+Martin+Weir.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Picture by <a href="http://www.weirphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Martin Weir</a>)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Please don't worry about the tears will you? An important part of my job on the day is to reassure you and above all, to help you to relax and enjoy your ceremony! Don't ever forget that I'll 'be there' for you on the day to guide you through:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2kQK83H3mgXvifD_lq3BIT6nVoqLZlGNDNDKB0Lgd4UZZcfOA6Xxmi0XAtMQLDpy60ay5htS2IMegU4T9EuhMptJSGddnGPPsALAn2yFeqCmWAuYRKvhUltTBZ1G353lOl6zyZaZxxYzK/s1600/2010-07-03_Officer_wedding_114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2kQK83H3mgXvifD_lq3BIT6nVoqLZlGNDNDKB0Lgd4UZZcfOA6Xxmi0XAtMQLDpy60ay5htS2IMegU4T9EuhMptJSGddnGPPsALAn2yFeqCmWAuYRKvhUltTBZ1G353lOl6zyZaZxxYzK/s320/2010-07-03_Officer_wedding_114.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo of Kyle and Yvonne at their wedding at <a href="http://www.broomhallcastle.co.uk/" target="_blank">Broomhall Castle in Menstrie</a> taken by <a href="http://www.weirphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Martin Weir Photography</a>)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="text-align: justify;">This is Joanne and Russell after their wedding at </span><a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">the Roman Camp Hotel</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> and although they look relaxed here, they were both quite emotional during the ceremony too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAXYLKGx1Uw9-SAkuohTVFINpgpi2KImvX-jOA9V1Posa4WfWiP5USAn1E0QZSqSKgoV5B55HU9zaLHNQmoJRlVQohWs5bYb-T_vsIJy8knOryYvkKLORTp7Kl3wBGk6uj9jN4dNolg8hY/s1600-h/happy+couple.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5186077412710260722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAXYLKGx1Uw9-SAkuohTVFINpgpi2KImvX-jOA9V1Posa4WfWiP5USAn1E0QZSqSKgoV5B55HU9zaLHNQmoJRlVQohWs5bYb-T_vsIJy8knOryYvkKLORTp7Kl3wBGk6uj9jN4dNolg8hY/s320/happy+couple.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Don't they both look splendid in red though? And check that sporran out! Just in case you want a close up, here it is in all it's glory:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As you can imagine, this attracted quite a few funny (and naughty) comments on the day and in fact, the ceremony was full of fun and laughter! The photos for this wedding were taken by Tom and Donna Collins at <a href="http://www.stylishimages.co.uk/" target="_blank">Stylish Images</a> and the DVD was by <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.dvdwed.com/" target="_blank">Grahams Digital Productions</a><br />
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</span>The following video clip, courtesy of Graham, will give you a feel for the way in which weddings can be both fun and emotional at the same time. By the way, I should point out that the quality of the clip has been significantly reduced to upload it to this blog and that the original is of superbly high definition!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwMEaNnq0bj_dAdZGxa6zOGDzvKj6PP22XlCkn6RoIRbBqAYN4OUGHuGlCtc4RHu0ChWrFeJdU1n8iYESZJkA6s6lsfVDqldkjcPQWU7p9gokGw9CNCI5LCUkxgnWl1ELtNh9uw4GH0gH3/s1600-h/Laughter!.jpg"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzaWdjcFXXr-jVyRq5_wm7BoOaos44FNqffw8a4MeY_Mex1oC6nZePakIE7XxEVsd3ZwT0FJkb7kRx0djhTIA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></a></span><br />
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Crying apart, couples often get worried about getting a fit of the giggles during the ceremony. Lots of people giggle when they’re nervous, but you’ll find a humanist ceremony much more relaxed than being in church and if you feel like laughing, that’s great! I think it’s important to inject a bit of humour into a wedding ceremony – it’s all about having fun! The ceremony shouldn't be an ordeal, it should be a really enjoyable part of the day - for you and your guests! This is Birdeen and Karl, below, at their wedding in Doune Castle having a good laugh. For me, this photo really sums up the joy of what was a very relaxed and enjoyable occasion. By the way if there's something to laugh about, you can pretty much guarantee that I won't be able to keep a straight face!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(photo by Stirling based <a href="http://whylerphotos.com/" target="_blank">Whyler Photos</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Weddings are so much fun and I just love it when there's some laughter to break the tension - it helps everyone to enjoy the ceremony and turns what you might fear is going to be a nerve racking occasion into one that is relaxed and enjoyable:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Most couple relax a lot after the exchange of the vows and the signing of the Marriage Schedule and the last part of the ceremony is all about celebrating:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(pic by <a href="http://www.alicleary.com/" target="_blank">Ali Cleary</a>) (pic by <a href="http://www.jillcherryporterphotography.com/" target="_blank">Jill Porter</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And of course at the end of the ceremony, you'll be ready to celebrate by starting the party with a big hug, lots of confetti and that much needed glass of bubbly!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And all you have to do now is to live happily ever after!!</span><br />
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-73398386692755412422008-04-05T16:53:00.037+01:002020-05-24T10:07:53.007+01:00How do we choose a venue?<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">So, how do you choose a venue? Many couples choosing a humanist ceremony decide to have the whole day (ceremony and reception) in one place and this has lots of practical advantages (not having to move your guests from A to B being a big one!) Because humanist ceremonies are non-religious (I should stress here that they are never anti religious!) a church building isn't usually an option. But there are so many other places to choose from - hotels, historic buildings, stately homes, <a href="http://www.nts.org.uk/Functions/Weddings/" target="_blank">National Trust</a> properties or <a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/" target="_blank">Historic Scotland</a> properties. Mind you, please note that </span><span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Historic Scotland have decided that weddings will now only be allowed at 21 of their 300+ properties and if you need more information about this, phone the wedding team on 0131 668 8686</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are of course many lovely outdoor places - in fact, you have the whole of Scotland at your disposal and don't forget that an authorised Humanist Celebrant can conduct a legal marriage anywhere (<span style="font-weight: bold;">yes, anywhere</span>!) in Scotland without the need for a civil licence!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Choosing the right venue is as much about the right 'feel' of the place as it is about the practicalities (size, location, cost and so on). You may be looking for something formal or something informal or something in between, but there's a huge choice out there, from the elegant splendour of <a href="http://www.thegeorgehoteledinburgh.co.uk/" target="_blank">The George Hotel Edinburgh</a> to the rustic charms of <a href="http://www.comriecroft.com/" target="_blank">Comrie Croft</a>!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie Castle</a> at Banknock is one of my favourites and a very popular local venue. They do weddings both in the main house, which is very nice and in the castle, which opened in 2007. Of course, the food at Glenskirlie is fantastic and it has a superb restaurant. The castle, although modern, certainly has the wow factor, both inside and out:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVU34I3xLvQWIgFBoU7_xyOjXzz5sRK86B8-msFHPdx1MGUpATyjko9ruTJs530GgQyc_Xjs9YRgYQ3PhY9H3821hxyHiympTZOSx5KY5lxzQ91lLeBeclBcSXQDxGF7NU5P6SJgkyAw7/s1600-h/Glenskirlie+Castle.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383963278624354162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVU34I3xLvQWIgFBoU7_xyOjXzz5sRK86B8-msFHPdx1MGUpATyjko9ruTJs530GgQyc_Xjs9YRgYQ3PhY9H3821hxyHiympTZOSx5KY5lxzQ91lLeBeclBcSXQDxGF7NU5P6SJgkyAw7/s320/Glenskirlie+Castle.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is the room they use for wedding ceremonies at the castle. With the big stained glass window to the side and the wee turret that is perfect for signing the Marriage Schedule, it has a lovely feel to it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If the weather is good, the terraced patio area at the back is lovely for drinks and photos after the ceremony too:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />Glenskirlie House is just as lovely inside as the castle:
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Whichever option you choose, the excellent Wedding Coordinators at Glenskirlie will make sure that everything is organised behind the scenes so that all you have to do is enjoy your special day!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another fabulous local venue is <a href="http://www.culcreuch-castle-hotel.com/" target="_blank">Culcreuch Castle </a> at Fintry: </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Many couples choose to marry there because of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">it's lovely buildings and grounds, the fantastic food and possibly above all, the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">friendly</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> and helpful staff. The team includes Mary Anne, Robert and Allyson and between them they will ensure that your day not only goes well but is also great fun! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The <a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">Roman Camp Hotel</a> in Callander is also nice.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffGxkLfPX9SSRcWVmaP5K0w2YjNxHl5tLL4QFKq6gr3e01_xCeudUniBHzxYfOPCLQk0mkfD19m_9u-ZRWS1HESR8kHV3D9t3AWN0gJjEfzKhGxvIODYem7oP5AkyrIgM06KlWTeZfWrt/s1600-h/Roman+Camp+exterior.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188755228252278866" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffGxkLfPX9SSRcWVmaP5K0w2YjNxHl5tLL4QFKq6gr3e01_xCeudUniBHzxYfOPCLQk0mkfD19m_9u-ZRWS1HESR8kHV3D9t3AWN0gJjEfzKhGxvIODYem7oP5AkyrIgM06KlWTeZfWrt/s320/Roman+Camp+exterior.jpg" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lwdr-v8z2n4ZWY5R7ay9g0TN_NHov-SAoXWKVrKu5JJlEOf1D519vlAfnCFzGVYqtwFLMllO__EfE5VBHcvuf7aLmGAoYZTjVynJaY4ss7qMzwFNnr_IfwIrj4ajylExfOhz2I0m7QnI/s1600-h/Roman+Camp+exterior.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5196253765575975714" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lwdr-v8z2n4ZWY5R7ay9g0TN_NHov-SAoXWKVrKu5JJlEOf1D519vlAfnCFzGVYqtwFLMllO__EfE5VBHcvuf7aLmGAoYZTjVynJaY4ss7qMzwFNnr_IfwIrj4ajylExfOhz2I0m7QnI/s320/Roman+Camp+exterior.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Shona, the wedding planner there, is so friendly and helpful - she'll look after you really well and as well as being stunning, the hotel has a wonderfully warm and relaxed atmosphere - you have to visit to see what I mean. The food is superb too by the way and the canapés are the best for miles around! Weddings are conducted various parts of the hotel, including the lovely old library:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> It also has a tiny chapel off it where the Marriage Schedule can be signed:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Or you can sign in the library itself:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are other rooms within the hotel that can be used for wedding ceremonies including the main restaurant:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The grounds are beautiful too, so an outdoor wedding down at the river is another option in good weather:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXidSwc1288THXENoRIfq4SRB77FVjNNGkZf1RZ5dt8cA91X4v4PwHlA38tNsIv5NNN_MQ_I5nK-jMyJK981pTgtOiAtlRSqfSFgZi1qJ2DZqlA9vy_ky-DmbtoiMnI_ptQpOXMFP3C2UY/s1600-h/Roman+camp+river.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286711234625606418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXidSwc1288THXENoRIfq4SRB77FVjNNGkZf1RZ5dt8cA91X4v4PwHlA38tNsIv5NNN_MQ_I5nK-jMyJK981pTgtOiAtlRSqfSFgZi1qJ2DZqlA9vy_ky-DmbtoiMnI_ptQpOXMFP3C2UY/s320/Roman+camp+river.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This is the wedding of Mike and Kirsty and we were lucky that the rain stayed off and we were able to hold the ceremony by the river where it's lovely and peaceful. The hotel staff put out wooden benches for the family and the wedding party to sit down and everyone else gathered around informally. The stone table makes an ideal place for the signing of the Marriage Schedule. This was a great wedding and Mike and Kirsty made sure that it was full of fun and laughter!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_c1-3aqNdQkxpvPt3maCzZaPAqwdxw9RJQAqdJOttXFvkDDN5WjU4zPqj6jpm56Tq-CqukMgx1wve4B0i0wi149U58ZWrJ3RqZBrpKEQNQefeul6HqCWXro-k6BAz_SHHp5fjxo9JMcz/s1600-h/Roman+Camp+river+2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5196252769143563010" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR_c1-3aqNdQkxpvPt3maCzZaPAqwdxw9RJQAqdJOttXFvkDDN5WjU4zPqj6jpm56Tq-CqukMgx1wve4B0i0wi149U58ZWrJ3RqZBrpKEQNQefeul6HqCWXro-k6BAz_SHHp5fjxo9JMcz/s320/Roman+Camp+river+2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a>As did Amy and Adrian - and the sun certainly shone on their big day too: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig0xLdRH74_OgDx-ZTsi2f9s7sI89gL0C_HZecSideTl6iepq98ByZNh_QM-FS4LhvnrOXz7V-lJa2oN1evxm8YL-RAN9AUzrx1wPx_wfHHke40HowBNaXkNZXLfHNdZbiPXIFlNHkBqzW/s1600-h/outdoors.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286711991176940258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig0xLdRH74_OgDx-ZTsi2f9s7sI89gL0C_HZecSideTl6iepq98ByZNh_QM-FS4LhvnrOXz7V-lJa2oN1evxm8YL-RAN9AUzrx1wPx_wfHHke40HowBNaXkNZXLfHNdZbiPXIFlNHkBqzW/s320/outdoors.jpg" style="display: block; height: 237px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">By the way, if you're interested in historic properties, there are some lovely ones to choose from in this area, including <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/doune/dounecastle/" target="_blank">Doune Castle</a>, <a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyabout.htm?PropID=PL_058&PropName=Castle%20Campbell%20And%20Garden" target="_blank">Castle Campbell</a> or <a href="http://www.stirlingcastle.gov.uk/" target="_blank">Stirling Castle</a>. By the way, if you're having a small wedding, a lovely historic venue near to Stirling castle is <a href="http://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/stirling/argyllslodging/index.html">Argyll's Lodging</a>:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Laigh Hall, pictured above, can accommodate up to 60 guests for the ceremony and the stunning dining room on the first floor, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">shown below, </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">can accommodate 30. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">For more information, go to the <a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/weddings-argylls-lodging" target="_blank">Historic Scotland</a> website.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You might choose a venue because it's in a lovely location with great views, because of it's sense of history, because of the quality of the food or because the staff are friendly and helpful - or all of those things! But whatever your main priorities are, there are some lovely places to be married in central Scotland.</span><br />
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8572783787531813634.post-9904283372942277252008-04-05T16:39:00.037+01:002020-05-24T10:08:25.382+01:00How do we set the room out?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemNCS7-xoeS0MiYLnFoY8ZKWy7SNgOs4yybXGdTHarSz9m7Xy-J-mPD7v3XsYEeyhoR7tTdHFn0LtEHIaltgPbkRzj8Gk4K7SkdSp3poVmMl3vnMvO1N1uD1j9Yg_XpqsBqWw7bHH3ls8/s1600-h/Castle+Campbell2.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287543839189434354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemNCS7-xoeS0MiYLnFoY8ZKWy7SNgOs4yybXGdTHarSz9m7Xy-J-mPD7v3XsYEeyhoR7tTdHFn0LtEHIaltgPbkRzj8Gk4K7SkdSp3poVmMl3vnMvO1N1uD1j9Yg_XpqsBqWw7bHH3ls8/s320/Castle+Campbell2.jpg" style="display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It's a good idea to have some form of focal point in the room (or space if it's outdoors) and this could simply be in the form of a table with a flower arrangement on it such as the one above which is at </span><a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyabout.htm?PropID=PL_058&PropName=Castle%20Campbell%20And%20Garden" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;" target="_blank">Castle Campbell</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">By the way, on the subject of flowers, make sure that your florist removes any stamens with pollen! I recently got red pollen from a floral display all over my dress before a wedding and I had to keep the bride well away from it! </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Of course some venues afford a spectacular views that might be all you need for a focal point! This is the lovely view over the loch view from <a href="http://www.kinlochard.org/village_hall.html" target="_blank">Kinlochard Village Hall</a> for example:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_H9jhPWTKbzqNEw6_dgr7q98IaVQ6yOZMjzQqP_wJedYAj9c_dW5x4sq0U8a83xkj-yOkktC6vm0YRD7Fzz2wLeCteaN_SYC2sudScnJeQ40T1rHhH7aPgTmuDtrwLSs8xRTuRrzGRvp/s1600/Kinlochard+view2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw_H9jhPWTKbzqNEw6_dgr7q98IaVQ6yOZMjzQqP_wJedYAj9c_dW5x4sq0U8a83xkj-yOkktC6vm0YRD7Fzz2wLeCteaN_SYC2sudScnJeQ40T1rHhH7aPgTmuDtrwLSs8xRTuRrzGRvp/s1600/Kinlochard+view2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Other ideas would be to use a natural feature such as this lovely tree in the grounds of the <a href="http://www.strathblanecountryhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Strathblane Country House Hotel</a>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPFo_ggULIO6_FHrPWn21NeLWtCtjW4B-1dqimIUaFYFgT5-46PEJoxUKUlsuss5CZXVQ51tsZnni-F6zB9YnwEyHZsWYkML7LgsFbppzLQVdPJfBFl3L6Tegtg6UgPZZbma-ZZM8cEsb/s1600-h/focal+point+4.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287545098682871874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsPFo_ggULIO6_FHrPWn21NeLWtCtjW4B-1dqimIUaFYFgT5-46PEJoxUKUlsuss5CZXVQ51tsZnni-F6zB9YnwEyHZsWYkML7LgsFbppzLQVdPJfBFl3L6Tegtg6UgPZZbma-ZZM8cEsb/s320/focal+point+4.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 213px;" /></a>Or this one at <a href="http://www.culcreuch-castle-hotel.com/" target="_blank">Culcreuch Castle</a> in Fintry:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZUZnwV1SUQIQ7PuLqL_ittzjcBuyt8GPHsSZYk4WoHsw5PtpOr2dvAuFwoeHOa_LL6nimDzQnaGXOw5D3L2MVg1LgCuoXamzJuz2WJ3jzjwXee63OhvJgC6ujXF92mjDugKmQtEm3R2M/s1600/Culcreuch+focal+point.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZUZnwV1SUQIQ7PuLqL_ittzjcBuyt8GPHsSZYk4WoHsw5PtpOr2dvAuFwoeHOa_LL6nimDzQnaGXOw5D3L2MVg1LgCuoXamzJuz2WJ3jzjwXee63OhvJgC6ujXF92mjDugKmQtEm3R2M/s320/Culcreuch+focal+point.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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Balloon or flower arches are a nice idea too (watch that pesky pollen though!):<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrh6tgfEVQ0g3C9aaCxCgk1xOmruYL730WyTFWKiG55RY0HOPaXx1cEgDtYA37FHvI_W5aGVFZQVVyk8neYttVJjin9WhW-fMC421Ifcb7PgJ_GR5aqp-atPtsaf7VDFZjRlkWiUHaj9b9/s1600-h/Focal+point+2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287713043191469090" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrh6tgfEVQ0g3C9aaCxCgk1xOmruYL730WyTFWKiG55RY0HOPaXx1cEgDtYA37FHvI_W5aGVFZQVVyk8neYttVJjin9WhW-fMC421Ifcb7PgJ_GR5aqp-atPtsaf7VDFZjRlkWiUHaj9b9/s320/Focal+point+2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Xz4gViErYXBx708ijK8yzA9g5oHHCFPCUJ1729-kGRvPgEWyIq2YUYiVd-Frk-DQrp7NmSfDHkIzHHFb3DqLIuJ7qJJaHVUpPtcg_gD-j2fM5-bEqo4jB1PSJOBOM3DKyM870Lq62kvj/s1600-h/Focal+point.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287713419760421842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Xz4gViErYXBx708ijK8yzA9g5oHHCFPCUJ1729-kGRvPgEWyIq2YUYiVd-Frk-DQrp7NmSfDHkIzHHFb3DqLIuJ7qJJaHVUpPtcg_gD-j2fM5-bEqo4jB1PSJOBOM3DKyM870Lq62kvj/s320/Focal+point.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 240px;" /></span></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">And if you happen to be passionate about something, as Anne and Gavin are about their American Airstream trailer (a beautifully renovated 1964 Bambi Mark II if you're interested!), then why not include it as a backdrop or focal point for your wedding ceremony!</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuH_7oKjO7pjbuvAjP4kmLB7jSbnV70CPia14XDgXFEHHLqQth1tKz3xeKN0kxrhbvhq5ZZcI_gXtQAJVaGA2nTO7p9Z9au3_t-cxLftXZcJJxAkumvgyBCI3y8QaEjopvBln3cmyUiGCF/s1600-h/Focal+point+3.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287714441936531602" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuH_7oKjO7pjbuvAjP4kmLB7jSbnV70CPia14XDgXFEHHLqQth1tKz3xeKN0kxrhbvhq5ZZcI_gXtQAJVaGA2nTO7p9Z9au3_t-cxLftXZcJJxAkumvgyBCI3y8QaEjopvBln3cmyUiGCF/s320/Focal+point+3.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Make the most of your grand entrance too. Many hotels provide a red carpet such as this one in the stunning gardens at Alloa's <a href="http://www.geanhouse.co.uk/" target="_blank">Gean House</a>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRv6579Xn1sNgS1ZwfYfsV1Q4xZ7RJVbXqASgk43tTRGZeV8dxSDcgHPOMIemZGbrKgWp_AOx_2C4wcBI1ZLdvOaZTwcjK9gELkwNo7uGat6thkrWweKJCndYz6-4qIgt74PJiCiZNavx/s1600/Gean+House+gardens2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrRv6579Xn1sNgS1ZwfYfsV1Q4xZ7RJVbXqASgk43tTRGZeV8dxSDcgHPOMIemZGbrKgWp_AOx_2C4wcBI1ZLdvOaZTwcjK9gELkwNo7uGat6thkrWweKJCndYz6-4qIgt74PJiCiZNavx/s320/Gean+House+gardens2.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Or you can personalise things as Dee and Gordon did to decorate a room </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">beautifully </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> at <a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie House</a>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrwonhiu3EbZeMq7maDFmmFJ5e2qyvXoEX4j4rK31lWeLw_F2Kfis0fpOA1JGyItp0btMp3X0_sNiIaOwpy5IKf-ifIyeHwwIxVx-LyeILLXccfi7HsBy9d0dSQl4x1Ofu7LQwr3ytPo5x/s1600/Glenskirlie+House.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrwonhiu3EbZeMq7maDFmmFJ5e2qyvXoEX4j4rK31lWeLw_F2Kfis0fpOA1JGyItp0btMp3X0_sNiIaOwpy5IKf-ifIyeHwwIxVx-LyeILLXccfi7HsBy9d0dSQl4x1Ofu7LQwr3ytPo5x/s320/Glenskirlie+House.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you're outdoors, you may simply have people standing, gathered around you informally (though you might want a few seats at the front for grannies and grandpas!):</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">But indoors or outdoors, it's also a good idea to think about how you want to have any seats set out and many couples choose to have a central aisle, with straight rows of seats either side, as in this picture of <a href="http://www.glenskirliehouse.com/" target="_blank">Glenskirlie Castle</a> at Banknock:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you want the space to look less formal, you could arrange the seats in an arc and still retain the aisle, such as here in the grounds at <a href="http://www.romancamphotel.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Roman Camp Hotel</a> in Callander:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQG9x_rST_3PlW3SCRzmVQUMivkk6X0kjQa14JlsHSsqeVCBf_odctRnAp4CKbPPFINiatm-S7CeNElf5mlYQ_OQp2YszLvNqvo7xr4kZ_sLEVR7TY15NRQ1s-tLGO2uzH6qrwxA4Ojio5/s1600/Roman+Camp+red+carpet+by+Trevor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQG9x_rST_3PlW3SCRzmVQUMivkk6X0kjQa14JlsHSsqeVCBf_odctRnAp4CKbPPFINiatm-S7CeNElf5mlYQ_OQp2YszLvNqvo7xr4kZ_sLEVR7TY15NRQ1s-tLGO2uzH6qrwxA4Ojio5/s320/Roman+Camp+red+carpet+by+Trevor.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">(Photo by Trevor Wilson at <a href="http://silverphotography.co.uk/" target="_blank">Silver Photography</a>)</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">If you don't want to have an aisle, you don't need to have one of course and you can create a nice inclusive feeling for your <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">guests</span> when the seats are arranged in a circle or horseshoe shape. This is at <a href="http://www.historic-scotland.gov.uk/propertyresults/propertyabout.htm?PropID=PL_058&PropName=Castle%20Campbell%20And%20Garden" target="_blank">Castle Campbell</a>:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1N7p37lqcPkrpmNxszK26Hvkt3-Cqf5weA-bZ6eyi5yJVm9cGy8UVzF5-U-6kDlNaLIImEJruc4pX2VfXGIfCehniFYctr4Rbz1VI6LpLja68V9PcUn5Dz7NQZL_jzBsKWY6RSAq7DgMZ/s1600-h/Catherine+%26+Aaron+1.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5185789503872540482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1N7p37lqcPkrpmNxszK26Hvkt3-Cqf5weA-bZ6eyi5yJVm9cGy8UVzF5-U-6kDlNaLIImEJruc4pX2VfXGIfCehniFYctr4Rbz1VI6LpLja68V9PcUn5Dz7NQZL_jzBsKWY6RSAq7DgMZ/s320/Catherine+%26+Aaron+1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Even just having the seats at an angle rather than in straight rows can give the space a different feel, as in this picture of the <a href="http://www.harviestouncountryhotel.com/weddings.html" target="_blank">Harviestoun Country Hotel</a> in Tillicoultry:</span></div>
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Mary Wallacehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13993208439226950400noreply@blogger.com0