29 Sep Orla goes “micro”
‘Now is the time to free the heart,
Let all intentions and worries stop,
Free the joy inside the self,
Awaken to the wonder of your life’
“John O’ Donohue” – For an Occasion of Celebration
There is a snow globe like shake up going on in the world of 2020. While we are all learning how to slowly settle with the snow, we may begin to see things with new eyes. With a different perspective comes a new way of thinking. We are making choices and decisions, previously unentertained. With respect to weddings, and with current restrictions encouraging creativity, it seems that smaller weddings are enjoying their day in the sun. The micro wedding is born.
My husband and I had the good fortune to attend our friends’ wedding recently as guests. As a Celebrant, it was really special to be on the other side of the microphone (I only sang a short ditty sans mic, much later on!)
It was interesting, this duel perspective of mine. We marveled that we knew almost everyone and those we didn’t were sought out and introduced. We mingled happily and safely. It was roomy and comfortable and the atmosphere was so relaxed. Enjoying delicious ice cream whilst listening to a live band felt so good. We talked to the bride and groom, actually talked to them, at every stage throughout the day. I was beginning to wonder how anyone ever had more than 50 guests at their wedding. We really felt part of it all. Woodcarvings of our names highlighted our designated seats around spacious tables of 6. Featuring in the speeches is always lovely; a declaration of friendship. We felt full of love, quite honestly. And that was even before we hit the dance floor!
Guests chose some of the tunes and again, we smiled as the live music filled our ears, our hearts, our feet. Almost everyone took advantage of the band’s slightly earlier wrap up, and if there was ever a happier dancing crew, well you could have fooled me.
It was no surprise to find out that my newlywed friends viewed the limitations positively too. Nerves were replaced by excitement and the relaxed atmosphere suited them. They felt like it was a ‘big family party’. They even went as far as to say that they may have been almost ‘robbed of the day’ had the numbers grown too big. They were beaming as they danced their way into the rest of their lives together.
I have always admired the couples choosing to elope or to exchange their vows in the company of close family and friends. Now I say whole-heartedly, if you can at all; make it micro!
Orla x