Jo and Tim’s Heartfelt Hampshire Celebrant Ceremony

When I first met Jo and Tim, I could tell immediately that their wedding day was going to be a celebration full of love, laughter, and the kind of energy that only comes when two people are perfectly in tune with one another. Their beautiful Hampshire celebrant-led ceremony at Burley Manor in the heart of the New Forest perfectly encapsulated their ethos of “doing your day, your way.”

From the first moments of their love story to the heartfelt vows they exchanged, Jo and Tim’s journey is a testament to resilience, joy, and finding love the second time around.

A Love Story 25 Years in the Making

Jo and Tim’s love story began over two decades ago in a bustling corporate insurance office. Though their paths diverged for many years, fate had other plans. Fast forward to October 2018, and Tim, finding himself at a crossroads, reached out to Jo for advice. Regular catch-ups soon followed, and what began as reconnecting over life’s ups and downs grew into something deeper.

Six months later, during a dinner at Carluccio’s, Jo found herself pouring out her heart about being single. In a moment of boldness, Tim posed a life-changing question: “Why don’t you just go out with me?” Jo was taken aback but quickly realised her feelings for him ran deeper than friendship.

A romantic walk through the bluebell woods soon after sealed the deal. Jo knew it was love almost immediately. Tim’s calming, kind, and resilient nature complemented Jo’s empathetic and purposeful character. Together, they formed a partnership built on mutual respect, shared joy, and unwavering support.

The Proposal in Salzburg

Tim knew Jo’s love for The Sound of Music and planned the perfect proposal to reflect her passion. On a trip to Salzburg, they toured iconic locations from the beloved musical, culminating in Tim proposing in the enchanting Merribel Gardens. It was a moment straight out of a storybook and so very fitting for their love story.

Planning a Hampshire Celebrant Ceremony

When it came to choosing their wedding location, Jo and Tim’s hearts were set on Burley Manor. With strong family ties to the picturesque village of Burley, it was the perfect setting to bring their vision of a relaxed, joyful celebration to life.

Their goal was simple: to create a day that truly reflected who they are as a couple and a family. They wanted their ceremony to feel intimate, heartfelt, and, above all, fun. Including their adult children in their ceremony was also important for them and they formed their wedding party.

I worked closely with them to craft a celebrant led ceremony that celebrated their unique story and all the quirks and characteristics that make their relationship so special.

A Unique and Personal Ceremony

The day of the wedding was a joyous occasion. Guests gathered from across the country, greeted with pre-ceremony drinks and an invitation to contribute to Jo and Tim’s “bucket list” – a collection of dreams, goals, and adventures suggested by their nearest and dearest.

As the ceremony began, the heavens threatened rain, but the atmosphere inside was warm and welcoming. Guests settled into their seats as Jo and Tim made their way down the aisle to the dulcet tones of James and the Giant Beat – a brilliant musician who set the perfect tone for the celebration.

I don’t know that I’ve ever since a prouder and happier groom. Tim was literally beaming from the moment he walked into the venue that day. Surrounded by all those that Jo and Tim hold dear – it truly was an emotional moment.

Love, Laughter, and Colours of the Heart

During the ceremony, we shared stories of Jo and Tim’s journey, reflecting on the love and laughter they’ve shared along the way. One particularly amusing anecdote involved their shared love for the book Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson, which explores personality types through colours. When I asked them, “If your partner were a colour, what colour would they be?” the question took on a deeper meaning for their guests, who were familiar with the book.

Tim’s super creative sister Julie shared a poem she had specially written for the day which I just had to share here because it was PERFECT for Jo and Tim:

This is not a love song

This is not a love song,
Indeed it may be said,
It’s actually a love poem for Tim and Jo instead.

Jo, you know it’s true,
There’s only one thing, one thing
That turns that grey sky to blue.
And that’s the look of love Tim has for you. 

Tim, for you there’s no more walking on the beaches looking at the peaches.
So just get a grip on yourself,
Because Jo’s taken you off the shelf! 

Today of all days is not about being crushed by the wheels of industry,
But giving in to temptation 
Of a life full of love and inspiration.

There will be times in your marriage when you’ll both need a little patience.
So never forget, even though you’ve come a long way,
There’s no room for complacence.

Keep sending those flowers of romance Tim,
And booking holidays in the sun on a whim.

With Gold on your fingers,
Aways believe in your souls.
Together you have the power to know you’re indestructible.

You’ll protect each other from the hooded claw,
Keep the vampires from your door.
The power of love 
Is truly a force from above.

You may no longer be 16 going on 17!
But here you are standing there loving each other.

You’ve forded those streams and followed that rainbow,
And already found your dreams.

Before exchanging vows, Jo and Tim picked a few cards from their bucket list, revealing the heartfelt and hilarious suggestions their loved ones had made. The moment perfectly captured the light-hearted, adventurous spirit of their relationship.

With vows and the exchange of rings, Jo and Tim became Mr and Mrs Hitchings. Their first kiss as a married couple was met with cheers, applause, and an a palpable feeling of joy that radiated throughout the room.

Personal Touches and Meaningful Gestures

The reception was a continuation of their colourful personalities and personalised approach to the day. Guests were treated to more music from James and the Giant Beat before heading into the barn for a delicious meal.

Every detail of the wedding reflected their personalities and passions. Jo had personally helped with the flower arrangements, which were nothing short of stunning. In a charming nod to The Sound of Music, there was even a book exchange, with books wrapped in brown paper and tied up with string – one of Jo’s “favourite things.”

Instead of traditional gifts, guests were invited to make donations to the Anthony Nolan Trust, a cause close to Jo and Tim’s hearts.

Finding Love the Second Time Around

Jo and Tim’s love story is a reminder that finding love later in life is a gift. It’s a treasure forged through life’s challenges, a deep understanding of oneself, and a recognition of what truly matters.

For Jo and Tim, adversity strengthened their bond and gave them a renewed sense of purpose – to travel, experience new adventures, and savour life’s moments together.

Their journey from friendship to partnership, through bluebell woods and the streets of Salzburg, is a testament to resilience, joy, and the power of love.

A Celebrant’s Perspective

As a celebrant, it’s an honour to be part of love stories like Jo and Tim’s. Sitting down with a couple to hear what makes them tick, what they value, and how they’ve come together is a privilege I never take for granted.

Crafting a ceremony that reflects the essence of two people’s lives is a labour of love. Jo and Tim’s day was a perfect example of how a celebrant ceremony can truly bring a couple’s unique story to life.

A Bright Future Ahead

Jo and Tim’s Hampshire celebrant-led ceremony at Burley Manor was a celebration of love, resilience, and the joy of building a life together. From heartfelt vows to meaningful personal touches, their day was a true reflection of who they are as a couple.

As they embark on this next chapter, one thing is clear: Jo and Tim have a love that is as strong and enduring as the New Forest itself. And a journey ahead, filled with laughter, adventure, and, of course, ticking off that bucket list together!

Photo by @nicolebavers

Music by @giantbeat_james

Venue @burleymanor