When I chose to become a celebrant, I only had one picture in my head – that was me stood outside on the side of a hill welcoming guests to the stone circle for a handfasting wedding ceremony; in my head it was and still is filled with joy – that’s why I wanted to do this. This picture has evolved to encompass all the wild settings that this country has to offer; hence, The Wild Celebrant. You see, I love to be outdoors in the elements, connected to the earth, feeling the tickle of grass on my toes or the sand between them, the warmth of the sun on my face and the coolness of the breeze on my skin. Connected to the elements, enlivened, and invigorated by them.
There is something raw and powerful about making commitments and promises when you feel rooted in the environment, you’re part of this ancient landscape, and all who have gone before, blessed by the elements. And what a wonderful way to bless a child on their naming day; offering them to the elements so that they may soak up the ancient wisdom of the landscape. It seems fitting too that we hold ceremony in nature when returning people to the elements; their final physical journey.
Not for the faint hearted, you will need to consider the impact of the weather on your garb; that lovely do will need to be styled to cope with the weather forecast for the day; left loose to be tickled by the wind, or plaited into place, boots, or wellies to cope with the ground underfoot and accessibility for those less able to hike or clamber. That said there are some beautiful venues for those who would prefer not to leave it to the vagaries of the weather forecast, and a pretty rustic barn, village hall or stately home offers respite and a place to celebrate where the food and the booze are more easily accessible. Many also offer outdoor spaces such as stone circles on their land or woodland glades, beaches, and clifftops so you can tame your wild heart without losing the connection with the elements.
If this resonates with you and you would like an alternative, outdoor event, contact me to talk more about the ceremony wishes in your wild heart.
