When I first became a celebrant, friends asked if I would ever do a wedding in costume. My answer was a big YES. I always had a specific costume in mind though. What I was really hoping for was a Renaissance Wedding!
My chance came when I met Kate and Mike, a lovely, fun couple who spent their free time on the Renaissance Fair circuit. When they told me that their Renaissance Wedding would have everyone, including the guests in period costume, I was thrilled. I asked if they wanted me to be in period garb as well and was very happy when they said yes.
Luckily Kate and Mike had a friend who was my size and I was able to borrow a lovely outfit. (If you’re wondering, even though it was a warm June day and the clothing included wool and several layers, it was quite comfortable.)
Renaissance Wedding Details
The ceremony was beautiful and unique, right down to the handfasting ceremony and the Celtic music playing before, during, and after the ceremony courtesy of Dugan’s Hooligans.
Processional [Music—“Fanny Poer” by Turlough O’Carolan]
Words of Welcome
Remembrance
Reading: Love and the Gentle Heart by Dante Alighieri.
Vows written by Kate and Michael
Song (in Gaelic & English): “Siuil a Run”
Ring Ceremony
Handfasting [Music—“Give Me Your Hand” by Turlough O’Carolan]
Blessing & Wishes for the Couple (A statement of support where all the guests responded with “Huzzah!”)
Declaration of Marriage
Recessional [Music—“Charles O’Connor” by Turlough O’Carolan]
Given the opportunity, I’d do another Renaissance wedding in a heartbeat!
