FAQ
About Humanist Ceremonies
What is a Humanist ceremony?
A Humanist ceremony is a non‑religious, inclusive celebration focused on people, stories, and meaningful moments. Whether it’s a wedding, funeral, naming ceremony, or coming‑of‑age milestone, the ceremony is personal, authentic and centred on human values.
Are Humanist ceremonies legal in Ireland?
Yes – Humanist weddings conducted by an accredited Humanist Association of Ireland celebrant who is registered with the HSE are fully legal in Ireland. This means your ceremony can be your legal marriage ceremony, not just a symbolic one.
Can we include readings, music, or personal rituals?
Absolutely. Humanist ceremonies are highly flexible. You can include readings, poems, symbolic rituals, cultural traditions, or any meaningful elements that reflect your personalities and values.
Weddings
How long does a Humanist wedding ceremony last?
Most Humanist wedding ceremonies last between 25 and 40 minutes, depending on readings, rituals, and personal elements you choose to include.
Will our ceremony be personalised?
Yes – each wedding script is unique. I take time to get to know your story, your style, and what matters most to you. See my blog here for more details.
Do you work with LGBTQ+ couples?
Of course! Humanist ceremonies are inclusive by nature, and I proudly celebrate love in all its forms, as explored in my blog here.
Is there anything we cannot include?
Because Humanist ceremonies are secular, direct religious content (prayers, blessings, or readings framed as worship) cannot be included. However, you can absolutely draw inspiration from cultural or family traditions.
Naming Ceremonies
What happens at a Humanist naming ceremony?
A naming ceremony welcomes a new child into the family and community. It may include promises from parents or mentors, readings, symbolic rituals, or family involvement, as described in my blog here.
Can we choose our own venue?
Yes -naming ceremonies can be held at home, in a garden, at a community venue, or anywhere meaningful to you.
Funerals & Celebration of Life Ceremonies
What is a Humanist funeral?
A Humanist funeral focuses on celebrating a person’s life, values, and the impact they had on those around them. It is warm, respectful, and deeply personal – centred on storytelling rather than religious content. See my blog here for more information.
Can family and friends participate?
Absolutely. Participation is encouraged. People can share readings, tributes, or memories to create a ceremony that truly reflects the person being honoured.
Booking & Practicalities
How far in advance should we book?
Weddings are often booked 12–18 months ahead but can be planned on a much tighter schedule when required. Funerals, of course, are arranged at short notice and I do my best to support families when needed. Naming ceremonies are typically booked 4–6 weeks in advance. Contact me to check my availability.
Where do you travel to?
I serve Cork, Munster, and surrounding regions, generally within a 2.5-hour drive from my home in Carrigaline. Travel beyond this area can be arranged on occasion- just ask.
How do we start the process?
Simply reach out through the contact form on the website or email. We’ll set up an initial conversation to talk through your ideas and next steps.
Ceremony Creation
Do we meet before the ceremony?
Yes – I always meet couples and families to plan the ceremony, either in person or online. This ensures your ceremony truly reflects your story and values.
Can we review the ceremony script?
Yes, you will receive a full draft and can request edits until it feels exactly right.