It is no mystery to anyone that knows me why I love the work that I do.  Whether the occasions are happy or sad I am always so blessed to work with people who truly want to honor and celebrate their lives. 

This is true of Mike & Helen, who contacted me to discuss a renewal of vows for their 20th anniversary.   For them, it was important that they honored the years of growing with each other, their children and their unwavering commitment to work on their relationship with compassion, a zest for life, humor and grace.   As we began to co-create their ceremony, we explored many possibilities, looked at the rituals that their family had created, the spiritual concepts they lived by, their values and how these translated into their daily lives. All of which was incorporated into a unique renewal ceremony.


Held at the Emerson Inn in Rockport,  their celebration began by collecting rocks and seashells in the morning.  These were carried to the ceremony site and used to complete the circle, behind were I stood.  
The ceremony opened with a welcoming,  a blessing and a personal reflection about Mike and Helen's connection and relationship. 

We rededicated and blessed their wedding bands and began the Celtic ritual of handfasting (above), the binding together of hands, symbolic of the binding together of their hearts, minds and souls.

As a couple it was important for Mike & Helen to acknowledge the special gifts and talents that each of their children contributed to the family and the ways they all support each other.  As this was done, we incorporated a sweet family ritual in which each person had written a personal note, sealed it in a small vial and attached it to a balloon.  These balloons were then released and allowed to soar up and away across the ocean...and they did just that!

I am so grateful that Helen and Mike found me and I am happy to call them part of my life now!  Congratulations Helen & Mike and may the next 20 years be as rich and vibrant as the past 20!
Love to all,
LisaAnn