Humanist Wedding Love Stories – A River of Love: Tom and Adele’s Elopement

September 17, 2024by GMcLean0

Adele and Tom pictured perfectly by Trevor Wilson from Silver Photography

A River of Love: Tom and Adele’s Elopement in Glencoe

Humanist wedding love stories are built on the solid foundation of shared adventures, mutual respect, and a connection to the natural world. For Tom and Adele, their journey began in 2015 at the University of Nottingham Kayaking Club, where the River Trent first brought them together.

Fast forward to them standing at the riverbank of Glencoe’s breathtaking Glen Etive, that same sense of adventure, joy, and love continued to flow as strongly as ever as they embarked on their humanist wedding ceremony and journey to becoming husband and wife.

Back To The Start

It all started when Adele attended her first kayaking club session and found herself paired with a certain charming kayaking instructor—none other than Tom Clare. From that first one-on-one lesson, their connection was clear. The chemistry between them was so obvious that even the rest of the club couldn’t resist teasing them about their “friendship.” But what started as playful banter soon blossomed into something deeper. By the end of the club’s Christmas party, with their first kiss, Team Tom & Adele was officially formed.

However, like many great love stories, theirs wasn’t without its challenges. Just six months later, Adele graduated and moved to Birmingham, while Tom remained an hour away. For the next three years, they navigated the tricky waters of a long-distance relationship. Many couples might have struggled, but Tom and Adele knew what they had was special. They made every weekend together count, turning their brief time into cherished memories, filled with laughter, kayaking trips, and outdoor adventures.

Del and Tom’s dream Glencoe wedding also features on ‘friend’s of Fuze’, the Your Scottish Wedding website.

Click HERE to see the full story.

Tom and Del take care of the all important legal marriage paperwork under cover

The Big Move In

By the summer of 2019, it was clear to them both that they were meant to be together, and they made the decision to move in. This was a seamless transition—after all, they shared so much. Their love for kayaking and the outdoors was well-known, but what really solidified their bond was their shared joy in each other’s company. Whether they were paddling down rivers or simply spending quiet evenings at home, they thrived in each other’s presence. The laughter, the stories, and the genuine connection they felt made them realise they weren’t just partners in adventure—they were partners in life.

Handfasting during a humanist marriage ceremony is both symbolic and deeply meaningful

Making Things Official

Fast forward to 2023, and Tom decided it was time to make things official. True to their shared love of rivers and kayaking, Tom chose a riverbank in North Wales for the proposal, following a day of paddling. Despite the rain, which seemed to be a recurring theme in their outdoor adventures, Adele gave a resounding “yes!”

It was a moment that perfectly encapsulated their relationship—filled with spontaneity, joy, and, of course, the great outdoors.

Glen Etive Adventure

As they stood on the riverbank in Glen Etive, Glencoe, with its wild beauty and untamed landscapes, it was such a fitting backdrop for a couple who have always embraced nature and the simple joys of life. By choosing to elope here, they opted for a ceremony that reflects who they are—an intimate celebration of their love without the distractions of a big, extravagant wedding. Just the two of them, in a place they both love, reaffirming their commitment to each other.

Secret Reasons Of Love

It was clear just how deep their bond goes. When I asked Tom what he loves most about Adele, his answers painted a picture of a woman who brings light and joy to everyone around her. Tom loves Adele for her ability to lift people’s spirits, for her radiant smile, and for her spontaneity, which has taught him to embrace life’s unexpected adventures. He cherishes the way Adele can turn an ordinary day into something special, and her presence alone is enough to brighten any room—especially when kayaking or minions are involved!

Adele, in turn, spoke of Tom’s kindness, patience, and pure joy in life’s simplest pleasures. She loves that Tom’s happiness comes from within and that he finds joy in the smallest things, like playing catch with friends at their hen and stag do. His kindness, which often goes unnoticed by others, shines through in the quiet ways he helps those around him. And above all, Adele values how Tom supports and loves her unconditionally, always putting her first in the little moments that make up their daily lives.

Needs must on you wedding day – for a Glencoe elopement, your own transport is essential

Qualities Of Their Love

It’s these qualities—kindness, patience, joy, and an unwavering connection—that have brought Tom and Adele here today. Their love has weathered distance, uncertainty, and the occasional rainstorm, yet it’s stronger than ever. As they stand here, surrounded by the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands, it’s clear that their love story is one of adventure, laughter, and an unbreakable bond.

Congratulations, Tom and Adele! May your love continue to flow as freely and as beautifully as the rivers you both hold so dear. Here’s to many more years of shared adventures, spontaneous moments, and endless laughter together.

The who’s who of Tom and Del’s Glencoe elopement:

CLICK PICTURE to hear our – Say ‘I DO’ With Fuze Podcast

Add our smiles to yours

No two couples are the same so no two ceremonies should be the same. At Fuze we work alongside our couples to make their ceremony script is unique, personal and bespoke. It’s your day your way with us, so let us add our smiles to yours. To check out Paula and all of our amazing celebrant’s live availability for your special date click here!

Paula Wilkinson
Celebrant at Fuze Ceremonies