We chose to have our wedding ceremony at home, with the idea of it being based on some pagan traditions, including hand-fasting / tying the knot. Whilst discussing the possibility with friends, Jane was recommended to us.
From the very initial contact, we both liked Jane’s great level of knowledge on the subject and her friendly, relaxed outlook and approach. Jane suggested that we meet, including our children who we wanted to be a pivotal part of the ceremony, somewhere mutually convenient for a relaxed lunch, so that we could get to know each other a little and talk about ceremony ideas, with the intention of giving both parties the chance to decide whether to progress further.
We chose to do so and over the following months, we had a number of exchanges by email discussing possible options and how we wanted the ceremony to feel. Jane then visited us at our home to familiarise herself with the ceremony venue and to make plans in more detail. Jane made a number of suggestions for the proceedings, many of which we liked and incorporated, around writing and saying our own vows and possible readings we might want to consider.
Having asked about and listened to some of our stories, about how we met and our relationship since, Jane proposed weaving some of these, including a re-enactment of our first kiss, into her introductory speech at the ceremony, which really gave it a personal, fun and romantic feeling.
Jane had prepared very thoroughly, including bringing herbs, leaves and flowers with particular pagan ceremonial significance, to create a “ring of love” around the participants. The following hand-fasting and broom jumping parts of the day were carried out with Jane’s trademark joy, fun and attention to detail.
Our guests enjoyed the ceremony so much that it has inspired some of them to consider having their own vow renewal ceremonies in a very similar style.
We can’t recommend Jane as a celebrant, highly enough.
Best regards and love,
Dave & Kerry Fairweather x
