By Wendy Dallas, Humanist Celebrant with Fuze Ceremonies
Photo credit to: Nicole Parrack Creative
There’s something magical about holding your wedding in a place that already feels like home. For Jen and Anton, that place was the beautiful garden of Jen’s parents, Ronnie and Carol, in Langbank. It was here, whilst surrounded by the people who had been part of their love story from the very beginning, that they said “I do” in a ceremony filled with warmth, laughter, and heartfelt moments. Elements of a truly wonderful humanist led marriage ceremony.
As a humanist celebrant with Fuze Ceremonies, I have the privilege of creating personal ceremonies that reflect a couple’s story. Jen and Anton’s journey is one I’ll never forget.
A Story of Home and Friendship
The private garden setting looked breathtaking, with late summer blooms and perfect weather setting the scene. The ceremony began with smiles, laughter, and a warm welcome to everyone.
Jen and Anton’s love story began long before romance bloomed. They grew up spending time together, first as friends (though Jen admits she always hoped for more), and later as a couple. Even when Anton had his own flat, he found himself back at the Burns’ home. The couple have shared over a decade of life together, building a home, making countless memories, and now starting a new chapter as husband and wife. Their decision to marry here, in the garden that had seen so much of their relationship unfold, made the day even more special.
Reasons they Love Each Other & a little more!
In keeping with my tradition of adding a personal humanist style touch, I asked Jen and Anton to share – privately – what they loved most about each other, and what occasionally drove them up the wall.
Jen loves Anton’s thoughtfulness, his calm nature (a perfect balance to her “chaos” – her words not mine!), and his playfulness, especially with children and animals. But she admits his untidiness can be… challenging!
Anton adores Jen’s kindness, her zest for life, and her determination. He’s incredibly proud of her achievement in becoming a doctor. However, he finds her inability to follow most TV shows or films rather amusing (and slightly frustrating!), with frequent pauses to explain plots.
These honest and funny moments always bring a unique spark to a humanist wedding ceremony, reminding everyone that love is built on both deep admiration and shared quirks.
Meaningful Moments
Jen and Anton’s ceremony included a touching sand ritual, with nieces and nephews pouring different coloured sands to represent their special bonds. We also took time to remember loved ones who couldn’t be there in person but were very much present in hearts and thoughts.
Their vows were deeply personal, pledging not only love and respect, but laughter, patience, and protection. Rings were exchanged (delivered by the adorable “ring security” Grey), and with a kiss, they were pronounced husband and wife to cheers, bubbles, and Marvin Gaye’s classic “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”.
See More of Their Story
If you’d like to see more of Jen and Anton’s beautiful day – including stunning photography, style details, and behind-the-scenes moments – you can read their full wedding feature over on Tie The Knot Scotland.
A Celebration to Remember
Jen and Anton’s wedding day was everything a humanist wedding should be – personal, heartfelt, and full of joy. The blend of family history, honest storytelling, and shared values made it an unforgettable celebration.
It was an absolute privilege to be their celebrant, and I wish them a lifetime of love, laughter, and new memories – both in The Grange garden and wherever life takes them next.
And the celebrations continued
What began as a simple legal ceremony in Scotland soon became a joyful garden celebration with around 40 close family and bridal party guests. Jen and Anton had already planned a destination wedding in Portugal – a country close to their hearts from family holidays and their first trip together , and had even found their stunning Sintra venue by chance during a taxi ride. Meant to be or what!
Home wedding suppliers
Venue Bride’s parents’ garden
Stretch tent Stretch Tents Scotland
Photography Nicole Parrack Creative
Celebrant Wendy Dallas, Fuze Ceremonies
Bride’s dress Reformation
Veil and shoes Quiz Clothing
Makeup Sophie White MUA
Hair Emma Kane Hair
Flower girl dresses Next
Groomswear Reiss
Rings Mr Harold & Son
Cake Glasgow Cakes
Catering Bangin’ Pizza
Cocktail bar Pure Bartending
Flowers Liz Wallwork (family friend)
Drinks reception music Maria McAveety
Soft play Dizzy Ducklings
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