Humanist Celebrant Blog
New Year Reflections: Remembering Loved Ones and Welcoming New Beginnings
A Quiet Moment for Reflection New Year’s Day often arrives quietly. After the anticipation and activity of the festive season, it offers a pause — a moment to breathe, to reflect, and to gently turn towards what lies ahead. From a humanist perspective, this turning of...
Christmas Traditions: Pagan Roots, Ancient Meanings and the Return of the Light
Ancient Origins of Christmas Traditions For many people, Christmas feels timeless — a familiar mix of lights, greenery, food and togetherness. But many of the traditions we associate with Christmas are far older than the festival itself, with roots in ancient pagan...
How To Write Your Own Wedding Vows (A Gentle Guide)
Wedding vows are one of the most intimate moments of the ceremony — a moment when you tell the world (and the person you love) what they mean to you and what you promise for the life you’ll share. There’s no single “right” way to do them: they can be simple or...
Celebrating New Life: The Origins of Naming Ceremonies
Welcoming a new life into the world is one of humanity’s oldest and most universal instincts. Across time and cultures, people have gathered to mark the arrival of a baby through rituals, blessings, feasts, or simple acts of community. However different these...
The Curious Origins of Our Favourite Wedding Traditions
Weddings are rich in rituals. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering in a garden or a big celebration with all the bells and whistles, chances are your day will include at least a few traditions that have been passed down through the centuries. But where do...
Grief Without Religion: Finding Meaning Through Humanist Funerals
Grief is one of the most profound human experiences. When someone we love dies, the world shifts beneath our feet — and in those early days of loss, we often search for meaning, comfort, and a way to say goodbye that truly reflects the life that has ended. For many...
Celebrating Life: The Beauty of Non Religious Funerals in the UK
In the heart of loss lies the power to truly celebrate the life that was lived—without religious words, but full of warmth, meaning, and personal touches. Non-religious funerals are growing in popularity, and here’s why they touch so many hearts. A Modern Way to Say...
Celebrating Life on Your Terms: The Benefits of Direct Cremation with a Personal Ceremony
In recent years, many families in the UK have sought more personal and flexible ways to honour their loved ones. One approach gaining popularity is direct cremation followed by a separate celebration of life. This method allows for a meaningful tribute that truly...
My Favourite West Midlands Venues – Why Go Anywhere Else?
When you're planning a wedding, there's something magical about finding that perfect place close to home, especially when the West Midlands has such a treasure trove of stunning venues, each with its own unique charm. As a Humanist Celebrant, I’ve had the privilege of...