Choose what’s right for you

Breaking with so-called “tradition” may seem daunting to couples, but Gerrie and Susan point out there are many traditions and cultures out there – and one isn’t more valid than another. “The first thing that jumps to mind is the word ‘traditional’ – whose tradition are we talking about?” Gerrie goes on. “We conduct ceremonies for people from lots of different cultures and heritages, so we work with whatever traditions people believe they have. “There are some things which are deemed traditional – like a father walking his daughter down the aisle. But, historically, that is about the daughter being given away as a chattel – a personal possession. So it’s about empowering the couple to twist the so-called tradition and put a different frame on it. For example, couples now have groomsmaids and bridesmen.”

Gerrie also conducts weddings in Spanish and says it is a Spanish tradition for the mother of the groom to walk the groom into the ceremony. “I had two gay men recently who walked down the aisle with their mums – they were still doing that traditional piece of making an entrance, and both walked down in succession,” Susan adds.

And on the subject of what to wear, Gerrie says couples often like to make a statement about their gender or sexuality. They have seen rainbow themes, lots of pink tweed kilts and some gender neutral outfits, too. “The best bit is that people are feeling more empowered to choose and not be constrained by history,” Gerrie adds.