Weddings are intertwined with religion, but with every generation becoming less religious, is there a way to keep the tradition alive?
Although many little girls still dream of their wedding day, Millennials especially don’t seem to place the same focus on marriage now, and if they do, then the religious aspect of it is far down the list of priorities.
So what are the options when it comes to non-religious weddings? Well, the good news is – there are plenty.
A wedding is really just a spectacle – all that matters is at the end of the day two people are legally married. Everything else is not only customisable, but the decisions are completely up to the happy couple.
There are really only three things to be concerned about in a non-religious wedding; the venue, the Celebrant, and the ceremony.
The Wedding Venue
When people picture weddings, the church is the first thing that comes to mind.
Of course, you don’t have to get married in a church!
You can get married literally anywhere you want, and the options are endless.
From beaches to rooftops, people are having their weddings in the most strange and exotic places. Garden weddings are always popular, offering a romantic, intimate and friendly setting.
Garden weddings make great photos, with the natural beauty as a landscape to frame the happy couple. With wide open spaces, there’s plenty of room for everyone, especially if you want to hold the reception there too.
Here at Markovina, we have had the pleasure of hosting hundreds of garden weddings at our estate and the positive feedback we receive from our happy couples when they first view our stunning location, is heart-warming and very gratifying.
The Celebrant
Traditionally, a member of the clergy such as a Priest, Minister, Rabbi or Imam would marry the happy couple, but if you’re not religious, then how does it work?
In New Zealand only official wedding celebrants can marry a couple.
These are people who have not only gone through training, but must meet strict good character standards, with at least four signed letters of support from people in the community.
Celebrants are calm, considerate, empathic and good at public speaking – otherwise they wouldn’t have the job for very long.
There’s also the option of having a friend or relative become ordained, allowing them to officially marry you. This takes a bit of planning and work, but it’s a great way to make someone part of your special day.
We have had many celebrants officiate weddings here at Markovina, all exceptional in their professionalism, and we’re happy to put you in touch with them.
The Ceremony
This is possibly the best part about having a non-religious wedding, as you can customise your ceremony to whatever you want.
That doesn’t mean you must have a crazy “theme” for your wedding and have everyone come as a Harry Potter character. There are plenty of standard non-religious ceremonies to choose from, or you can simply write your own.
And of course, that doesn’t mean youcan’t have a crazy theme for your ceremony!
The sky is the limit when it comes to ideas for unique wedding ceremonies for you, the family and your friends to all enjoy.
Remember, this is your special day, and if something makes you happy, then do it!
Markovina – the full package
If you’re not interested in a traditional, religious wedding day, then come talk to us.
We can organise as much – or as little – as you want for you special day.
From flowers and decorations, through to accommodation and wedding photos, we can take the stress out of a wedding and make the day exactly as you want it.
Remember, the three things you need for a non-religious wedding; the venue, the Celebrant, and the ceremony.
Also known as the where, the who and the what.
Markovina has got all three covered – just give us a call and we can discuss your personal plans.
