The most romantic music for a wedding would have to be played on a harp. Even the best recorded music cuts off abruptly, leaving the guests waiting a second or two before the ceremony begins whereas a harpist (or a guitarist if you prefer something more upbeat) will gradually fade out almost unnoticed by your guests.
Christmas is usually a quiet time for weddings in Australia. However according to researchers, this was not the case in Sweden in the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries because of the intensity of agricultural work. A normal working day lasted up to 17 hours in summer and up to 10 hours in winter. Christmas was the longest holiday of the year, providing several days off in a short period of time - enough time to prepare for festivities.
I can't help but wonder how with such long working days that the Swedes found time to find a mate!
It was a wonderful day – I officiated at baby Nash’s Blessing Ceremony. I knew it would be wonderful the first time I met him, his sister Pippa and his parents, Renae and Michael.They had the X factor, that special something which tells you that whatever they planned was going to turn out just right.
Now I have never really thought of myself as a sloppy sort of romantic (though I have watched Sleepless in Seattle more than ten times, Now Voyager and Casablanaca about the same number of times, and still stay up late to watch Love Actually whenever it is replayed.)
For me romance is not "one-size-fits-all." The stereotypical symbols of romance such as roses, candles and soft music are OK but can only go so far. What I find is really romantic is what makes a couple unique.
I recently attended the national conference for marriage celebrants and during one of the sessions there was a lot of discussion about venues that create the wow factor. I listened to tales of the most amazing locations and brides being transported to the venue by helicopter, Cinderella coaches and hot air balloons. They all sounded fabulous!
However, it left me considering whether it was the spectacle or spirit that mattered most - and I came down on the side of spirit. Some of the most memorable ceremonies I have officiated at, or attended, have not necessarily been in what might commonly be considered glamorous surroundings.