Marriages and wedding ceremonies aren’t for everyone, for various reasons. Does this mean for those unable to marry, or those unwilling to, cannot mark and celebrate their relationship? Simply, no as commitment ceremonies are the perfect way to mark and celebrate a relationship and union.
Why choose a commitment ceremony?
Marriage is a legally recognised union of two people who aren’t already in a marriage or civil partnership. Both parties do not need to be in love, they just need to agree to it and be legally able to marry.
A wedding is a ceremony based on the love and relationship of those the ceremony is for. A wedding is a ceremony and, without the legal declarations stated, it has no legal recognition.
Commitment ceremonies are an alternative to both marriage and weddings, Like weddings, commitment ceremonies are usually based on love but can also be a ceremony of outlined intentions such as a business partnership or a committed friendship. Commitment ceremonies do not have any legal status, which is ideal for those do are unable to marry or do not want to have a wedding.
Choosing to mark a relationship with a commitment ceremony is a declaration of commitment between those involved.
Who can have a commitment ceremony?
Anyone can have a commitment ceremony, including those who are legally married to others. It is a popular choice of ceremony for partners who are legally married to other people and awaiting their divorces to finalise before they can marry their new partners.
vows and rings exchanges during a commitment ceremony
Vows, promises, words of commitment, ring exchanges, other jewellery exchanges, and a certificate signing can all be included within a commitment ceremony. You can include any ceremony rituals or unity ceremonies, or a custom one can be created for you. Your relationship or partnership is unique so what is said during your ceremony should also be unique.
Handfasting in a commitment ceremony
Handfasting is believed to be our oldest betrothal custom. The Pagan wedding tradition can also be included within any ceremony. Those the ceremony is for are bound together in recognition of the ultimate commitment to each other. Many include a handfasting as part of a commitment ceremony as handfasting is about choice and being committed to another. Further information on handfasting can be found here
Commitment ceremonies for alternative people
Marriage declarations, weddings and commitment ceremonies all take place through a desire to be in a relationship which is recognised by others. As an alternative celebrant who specialises in non-traditional ceremonies, I can work with you to have a meaningful and uniquely crafted ceremony based on your requirements, in a location of your choice.
Ceremonies can include Pagan and spiritual beliefs, if desired, and many different ceremonial elements such as a handfasting, mead, rum, gin, or prosecco ceremony, and oathing stones can take place. Commitment ceremonies take place in any location or venue and are personal to those they are for. Some couples see them as their first ceremony and then may go on to become engaged and then married.
They can be intimate and informal with just the ceremony is for present, or they can be well attended occasions involving family and friends who can be part of the ceremony rather than just watching, if required.
Commitment ceremonies are chosen by those legally married to another but in an additional relationship, and for those who consider themselves to be poly. They are a meaningful celebration acknowledging a relationship and commitment to those involved in the union,
what to wear for a commitment ceremony
Whatever you want to wear is the answer. Some choose to wear wedding style clothing, some don’t. Those who are aren’t interested in being legally married may decide to wear clothing not associated with weddings, or opt for the non-traditional colours of wedding attire. If it is a business partnership commitment ceremony and your business has workwear or a uniform, this would be the perfect clothing for this style of ceremony. If it is a ceremony for friends committing to each other to be each other’s support, matching clothing could be a consideration.
Like with every ceremony, it is about the content and the purpose of the ceremony.
