Something’s been shifting in the world of weddings for some time - and yes, it involves dogs as ring‑bearers, personalisation as rich as the rest of the day and ceremonies nothing like a “vanilla” registrar script. More and more couples are choosing humanist ceremonies over traditional religious or civil options. But what is a humanist ceremony - and why are couples flocking to them, even if they don’t even initially know what “humanism” is?

Here’s the full download on why humanist weddings are gaining traction in a big way - and why they might be perfect for you.

same sex lesbian humanist ceremony wedding

What Is a Humanist Wedding?

In a nutshell: a humanist wedding is a non‑religious, deeply personal ceremony that celebrates you - your love, your values, your story. It’s led by a trained humanist celebrant (👋), working collaboratively with you to create something joyful, inclusive, and utterly yours.

Think no cookie cutter, zero generic templates - just a ceremony written entirely for you, with real heart and meaning.

Do You Have to Be a Humanist?

Not at all. Most couples who choose a humanist wedding don’t have a belief in organised religion - but they also don’t necessarily need to call themselves “humanists.” What matters is a desire for a ceremony that’s:

Authentic, not performative
Inclusive to all guests, beliefs or backgrounds
Joyful and creative, not dictated by outdated traditions

If you believe in love, equality, storytelling, and connection - you're definitely ready for a humanist wedding.

Why Are Humanist Ceremonies on the Rise?

Here’s the stat: In Scotland, where humanist weddings are legally recognised, they overtook Church of Scotland ceremonies in 2019 in popularity.

In a study published in March of this year, 46 % of Britons now say they have no religious affiliation.

Even though in England and Wales humanist weddings aren’t yet legally binding (but at some point soon will be), demand continues to grow. People want ceremonies that feel inclusive, emotional, and 100% true to them, without needing to be religious.

Top Reasons They Are So Popular:

Freedom to be yourselves - want to walk down the aisle together, include pets, run a quiz, have everyone sing, find ways of celebrating your important people, and have a ceremony packed with personality from start to end? Absolutely.
Inclusivity - these ceremonies welcome all genders, cultures, families & beliefs.
Emotion without the script - they feel more personal because they are personal.
Beside-the-line storytelling - no generic filler, just moments crafted around your unique journey.

From Couples Who’ve Had the Humanist Experience

There are countless stories that show just how transformative the ceremony itself can feel, both for couples and guests. Check out my testimonials page, or look on any humanist celebrants reviews or testimonials to find out how much couples and guests love them.

couple having humanist ceremony with trained celebrant — “Every meeting with her was like catching up with an old friend… she draws out your story like magic. Friends who are very experienced wedding go‑ers said it was the best ceremony they have ever seen.”
— Tassia & Gabe

Q&A: Quick Answers For Curious Couples

Q: Can humanist ceremonies be legally recognised?
A: It depends where you are. In Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and select jurisdictions, they are legally binding. In England and Wales, most couples pair a humanist ceremony with the legal paperwork being signed separately. Check out this popular blog post I published that breaks down your options. Get in touch and i'll be happy to explain how that works, but ultimately it doesn't take away from your wedding day in any way

Q: Can we include cultural or religious traditions?
A: Definitely. Many couples blend meaningful rituals - like Chinese tea ceremonies, Jewish Sevel Blessings, or LGBTQ+ pronoun acknowledgments - all with humanist storytelling and structure. It’s your ceremony, so you choose what reflects you.

Q: What if family or guests expected a church ceremony?
A: That’s common - and yet guests are often thrilled by what they see as a refreshingly honest and personal approach. Many end up feeling back that it was the most real, emotional ceremony they've ever seen.

In the Media

Humanist weddings feature regularly in The Guardian, Stylist, BBC and multiple wedding blogs, portrayed as emotional, creative and utterly personal alternatives to traditional ceremonies. They dominate wedding Instagram hashtags, Pinterest boards, and reels packed with confetti canons, sing‑alongs, and speech‑quiz mashups.

Couples increasingly opt for them - shouty, formal religious ceremonies? Not so much. Personal, story-driven, inclusive, funny? Yes, please.

Is a Humanist Ceremony Right for You?

If you want a ceremony full of laughter, honest stories, personal vows, and warm inclusivity - then yes, absolutely.

You don’t have to fit into a faith, follow tradition, or settle for a registrar script.

You can have a ceremony that’s joyful, meaningful, and as unique as your relationship.

humanist wedding ceremony couple walking back down aisle together

Ready to Find Out More?

If the idea of a humanist ceremony feels like you, let’s chat. I’d love to share ideas, explain options, or just hear what matters most to you.

💌 Get in touch to find out more

Why Humanist Ceremonies Are Trending (…Even If You’re Not a Humanist)