Organising your secular ceremony: where to start?

1. Think about the meaning

Before diving into the details of the planning, take some time to think about what the ceremony means to you and your partner. What values, memories and feelings do you want to incorporate into the celebration? Understanding these fundamentals will help guide future decisions.

2. Setting Tone and Style

The first practical step is to define the tone and style of your ceremony. Do you want a romantic, relaxed, formal atmosphere or something totally unique? This decision will influence the choice of venue, music, speeches and many other details.

3. Selecting the venue

The choice of venue is crucial. Choose a venue that reflects your personality and matches the tone you’ve chosen. From gardens to beaches, vineyards to industrial lofts, the venue should match the atmosphere you want.

4. Involve the officiant or celebrant

The officiant or celebrant plays a central role in the ceremony. Choose someone who understands your values and your relationship. You could choose a close friend, family member or even an experienced professional. The officiant will work with you to create a bespoke ceremony.

5. Customise the Ceremony Elements

Personalise the ceremony’s vows, speeches and rituals to reflect your unique story. Evoke memories, share anecdotes and express your emotions. Symbolic elements, such as the exchange of rings or unity rituals, can be adapted to reflect your values.

6. Choosing music

Music adds an emotional dimension to the ceremony. Select songs that have a special meaning for you. From soft melodies for the entrance to energetic pieces for the exit, the music creates a memorable atmosphere.

7. Logistical planning

Make sure your guests are informed of the date, time and place of the ceremony. Provide comfortable seating, an adequate sound system and a back-up plan in case of bad weather for an outdoor ceremony.

8. Rehearsal and coordination

An advance rehearsal is essential to ensure that the ceremony runs smoothly. The participants must know where to position themselves, when to intervene and how to move around. The officiant will play a key role in coordination.

Organising an unforgettable secular ceremony is a journey filled with thought, creativity and careful planning.By following these basic steps, you’ll be able to create a ceremony that captures the essence of your relationship, your values and your love. Start by defining what this event means to you, and then progress step by step to make your secular ceremony a precious and unforgettable moment.