Don’t Run the Other Way!

“When I hear the word ceremony I want to run the other way!”

This is what a woman told me recently who was attending a talk I gave to a women’s group. The talk was followed by very simple ceremony.

“Ceremonies”, she said, “just aren’t my thing.”

And yet, she thoroughly enjoyed this ceremony. She remarked at how simple it was and that there were no weird things she had to do that made her feel uncomfortable.

From a very young age I’ve been intrigued by ceremony but along with the aspects I loved there always seemed to be things that I just couldn’t relate to.

At times I felt so restricted that I wanted to run away!

But that all changed when I started creating ceremonies for myself that were all about me. I started savouring ceremony and I decided to share them with my family and friends.

When I work with my clients, I tailor make ceremonies that are deeply meaningful for THEM. I tell them, “This is all about YOU!” I am passionate about taking the awkward out of ceremony and infusing ceremony with ease so that everyone who takes part can relax into the experience to feel nourished.

When I work with a group I simplify the elements of the ceremony so that the participants can relax and I set an inclusive tone by encouraging everyone to participate actively or as a loving witness.

It’s always a little tricky maneuvering through the various needs of the members of a group and I kept this in mind when I created a series of my own ‘Signature Ceremonies’.

Honouring life’s transitions in a meaningful way by celebrating marriage, birth, coming of age and even moving into a new home, creates a beautiful foundation for stepping into a new phase of life.

I am especially passionate about the “Blessing of the Bride” ceremony. This ceremony brings women from both sides of the family and the close friends of the bride together to share wisdom and love with the bride on the morning of her wedding.

This simple ceremony usually takes place somewhere in the peace of nature. I have distilled the elements of this ceremony so that even the most reluctant relative or friend feels comfortable participating.

The sharing of stories has a grounding influence on the bride so that she can relax and take in all of the special moments of her wedding day.

When you create a ceremony remember, it takes time and consideration. In the process, many lovely ideas will come forth and yet a successful ceremony is composed of just a few simple elements.

Then you can relax and all who are present will feel free to share love and everyone will come away nourished with new memories.