What made you want a naming ceremony/humanist ceremony to celebrate the arrival of your baby?
Having had a civil ceremony for our wedding, we didn't feel it would be appropriate to have traditional church christening. All the reasons we had chosen a civil ceremony for our wedding remained true when considering how to celebrate Zachary's arrival - a personalised service, intimacy, uniqueness, and also the option to chose a location personal to us.
What did your guests say about your ceremony?
The overwhelming feeling was how special and touching it was. None of our friends had been to that type of service before, and it was wonderful to see so many people take the time to speak to Debra afterwards and share how much it had touched them.
Several of our friends commented on how involved that had felt during the ceremony, and, following the commitment that we invited everyone who wanted to to make, how "responsible" they felt - in a wonderfully positive way - they really felt they had a part to play in Zachary's life (makes me fill up now remembering how intensely intimate and supportive it felt)
There were several hankies being used discretely, as well as some wonderful moments of laughter and much nodding during Debra's words. A good indication that the right balance was achieved throughout the ceremony!
What will you remember most from your ceremony?
The preparation - spending time with Debra sharing what was important in our life; involving Daniel, Zachary's older brother; talking about what we hoped for Zachary; choosing the readings and music; putting together a Naming Ceremony Book with photos and pages for everyone to sign.
The ceremony - the way Debra had taken our rambling details in the prep stage and turned them into a wonderful ceremony, and how she delivered it with gentle warmth that captivated everyone who attended. How relaxed the whole thing felt. How nice it was that we were able to incorporate personal touches - from playing an amusing piece of music whilst our Supporting Adults were signing the Naming Book, to mentioning those people who were no longer with us, and finally having a toast at the end.
The benefits - feeling even closer to our friends and family; having some wonderful memories; and maintaining the links with the Lakes.
Any general comments about my service?
Special, personal, intimate, professional And just a huge thank you for a fantastic day |
