What’s the Difference Between a Humanist Celebrant and a FuturFaith Celebrant?
If you’re planning a non-religious wedding in Northern Ireland or Ireland, you may have come across different types of celebrants. One of the most common questions couples ask me is:
“Are you the same as a Humanist celebrant?”
The short answer? We share some values—but there are key differences.
In this blog post, I’ll explain the difference between a Humanist celebrant and a FuturFaith celebrant, so you can choose the ceremony that feels right for you.
Shared Values: People-Centred and Non-Religious
As a FuturFaith celebrant, I work with couples who want a meaningful, inclusive ceremony that isn’t religious. This is something I share with Humanist celebrants.
Both approaches focus on celebrating people, love, and life, without religion. We both create ceremonies that are personal, heartfelt, and full of intention.
If you’re looking for a ceremony that reflects your relationship and values, without religious content, either option could be a good fit.
The Key Difference: Flexibility and Choice
Where we differ is in how much choice couples have in what’s included in the ceremony.
Humanist weddings follow a Humanist worldview. That means they are always completely non-religious, and often do not include spiritual or symbolic rituals.
As a FuturFaith celebrant, I offer more flexibility.
You are free to include:
- Cultural or family traditions
- Spiritual readings or quiet moments of reflection
- Symbolic rituals like handfasting or a Kintsugi heart ceremony
Your ceremony is truly yours—crafted to reflect who you are and what matters most to you as a couple.
Can Both Types of Celebrants Legally Marry You?
Yes—and no.
In Northern Ireland, both Humanist celebrants and FuturFaith solemnisers can conduct legal weddings.
But here’s the important distinction: only some celebrants can legally marry you in the Republic of Ireland.
As a registered FuturFaith solemniser, I am authorised to legally marry couples in both Northern Ireland and Ireland. This means you don’t need to book a separate registrar—you can have one ceremony that is both beautiful and legally binding.
Why Choose a FuturFaith Celebrant?
If you’re looking for a ceremony that is:
- Non-religious, yet flexible
- Fully legal in both NI and ROI
- Personal, inclusive, and completely tailored to you
Then a FuturFaith celebrant might be the perfect fit.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the difference between a Humanist celebrant and a FuturFaith celebrant?
We both value people, equality, and love—but I offer: ✅ More flexibility in ceremony content
✅ A wider range of symbolic or spiritual options
✅ Legal solemnising in both Northern Ireland and Ireland
Ready to talk about your wedding ceremony?
Get in touch with me today and let’s make your day truly unforgettable.