Carol Wagner
Serving the Greater Philadelphia Area and Lehigh Valley, PA, Secular Weddings, Funerals, Memorials and Life Events
WEDDINGS A Humanist wedding is a non-religious celebration of love, commitment, joy and hope for the future. Secular traditional services are available as well as an opportunity for each couple to personalize their special day. Cultural traditions can be part of your ceremony such as lighting a unity candle, breaking the glass, jumping the broom, etc. Discuss your wishes with me during the planning stages. The idea is to celebrate your marriage in an uplifting manner that is a dedication of your love, respect and commitment to each other.
VOW RENEWAL The celebration of a milestone in your marriage and the continuation of your love and life together is a wonderful accomplishment. You may choose to recite the same vows promised on your wedding day or update them in a more personal manner to reflect your marriage currently.
“COSMETIC” WEDDINGS If you and your beloved have already been legally married and would like to have an additional ceremony to share with family and friends, a Celebrant can be beneficial. Recite the same vows to each other or change it up a bit if you’d like. It’s your day to celebrate your marriage.
NAMING CEREMONIES A Humanist naming ceremony is a non-religious ceremony to recognise and celebrate the arrival of a child and welcome him or her in the family and circle of friends. The structure often reflects that of more traditional naming ceremonies, with a formal ceremony in which the parents name ‘guide parents’, ‘mentors’ or ‘supporting adults’ instead of godparents. This service can also be performed for adults who have changed their names in order to start a new stage of life. In both cases, a celebratory party usually follows. The ceremony can be customized to meet your needs and make the day truly special.
FUNERALS AND MEMORIAL SERVICES Losing a loved one is a difficult and emotional time. Everyone deals with the grief that follows in their own way. A great way to honor someone’s memory is to celebrate their lives and to remember them well with dignity and respect. Share your stories and anecdotes with me so that I may personalize the service specifically to your family’s needs. I strive to be a source of comfort and an uplifting guide to make each remembrance special.
PET MEMORIALS In many ways, our pets have become our best friends, loyal companions and beloved members of the family. The grief and sadness that accompanies the loss of a pet is often as emotional as the loss of a person. They deserve to be honored with the same care, love and respect as our fellow humans. The loss of a pet may be the first time that children experience of the death of a loved one. A compassionate celebration of your pet’s life can help to begin the healing process. As a pet owner myself, I understand these feelings of profound loss. Consider sharing photos and great memories to assist me in personalizing your service.