The so-called humanist wedding gain more and more popularity in Poland these days. And that’s no surprise, for it’s a perfect alternative to the traditional church and civil ceremonies. Here, the happy couple exchange vows regardless of their ethnic origin, sex or confession. Love does not judge, does not discriminate, quite on the contrary, it unites and brings joy. A humanist wedding? What is it, actually? Let us explain it to you now.

Humanist versus traditional wedding

The only thing that this humanist wedding has in common with a traditional wedding is the second part of its name. It indicates a type of ceremony during which the partners exchange their marriage vows. In this case, not before a priest, God or an official, but before themselves. The vows are not imposed from above, and the young couple has the opportunity to prepare their own words for this occasion. There is only condition – let it be a sincere declaration of love.

Unlike a church or a civil wedding, the humanist version thereof does not cause or entail any liability or legal consequences. Therefore, neither the state nor the Church recognizes such a wedding as legally binding. This informal ceremony is an opportunity for lovers to say ‘I love you’. Gender, worldview and religion do not count here. Only the bride and groom. And the love between them. Nothing else matters.

The course of a humanist wedding

The most important (and the best!) thing about a humanist wedding is the fact that it can take place at any time of the day. The bride and groom decide about it. And as they say – sky is the limit. Would you like to have your humanist wedding at the sunset, on the beach, in the boho attire? No problem! During the day, in the forest, surrounded by the trees rustling merrily? Just do it! And maybe you dream of a luxurious, soulful hotel with romantic arrangements, lots of candles and rose petals? For such a wedding, there are no rules in force. Or actually, there is one… Your get what you wish for.

Who is leading the celebrations?

A humanist wedding ceremony is led by a celebrant, the so-called master of ceremonies. This is a lay person, who can be your sister, brother or uncle, provided that they meet the appropriate requirements. One of them is registration with the Humanist Society. However, if you want to entrust this task to an experienced celebrant, there are many organisations in Poland specialising exclusively in humanist weddings. Their staff includes many open-minded and qualified celebrants, most often speaking many languages, thanks to which such a ceremony can be bilingual too.

What should you include in your humanist wedding scenario?

The humanist wedding has a flexible formula. It takes place according to the scenario written by the bride and groom – their creativity and spontaneity decide where, at what time and how it will all take place. An invaluable element accompanying humanist weddings is music specially tailored to the ceremony, which makes every single moment unique. This can be individual songs or even an entire soundtrack.

Most couples also choose to give the floor to those closest to them. A toast delivered by a friend, a poem read by a mum, a song sung by a sister – these are the moments that bring a tear to the eye. If you would like to combine a humanist wedding with a civil wedding, ask the registrar for permission and thus, you can have both! Many people opt for this formula – an official ceremony in legal terms, and only then a very emotional, intimate celebration.

Humanist weddings at the Art Hotel

At the Art Hotel, we are here for you with all our energy and heads full of ideas. We listen, advise and then we do our utmost to make your big day truly memorable. Our team, full of creativity and enthusiasm, takes care of the organisation process, from the romantic arrangement of the space in one of our six banquet halls up to the preparation of the most imaginative desserts you could ever think of. The scenery will be straight out of a fairytale – lots of flowers, candles and glitter, or if you prefer, the party will be like the 90s returned to life, with disco and vinyl. How about turning the Garden Room into a jungle of paradise, full of greenery, fruits and ferns? Can you feel the energy?

Beautiful moment, do not pass away! Maybe you will extend the ceremony with breakfast together? Or a dinner in the privacy of your own suite? Or a dinner in a cosy corner of the Art Restaurant? Historic interiors, delicious food and lots of love. Can you feel the love tonight?

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