In the UK, around 30% of all families are ‘blended’ – that is, the family unit is made up of two people, one or both of whom have been partnered before, and one or both may have children from a previous relationship.
With the vast majority (more than 70%) of step-parents being a man taking on a woman with a child from a previous relationship, it’s aften a natural progression that the couple will go on to have a child together.
In this situation, holding a Family Blending Ceremony (whether you are married or not) brings the opportunity to show the older child, your family and friends – and each other – that you are committed to being a strongly-bonded unit.
Sometimes, these ceremonies are held when the new family adopt a new, shared, surname.
They are also really great for people adopting a child.
In all cases, the event itself can be as intimate or spectacular as you wish.
Some people choose to make this day all about the new family unit only, preferring to hold a ceremony infront of a select group of family and friends, in a quiet and reflective setting. In these cases, a Celebrant will work with you to make sure the day feels dignified and memorable. You might choose to use symbolism such as ribbon binding, or sand blending (ask me!) to create a personalised interpretation of how you feel.
For others, celebrating the day means involving friends and family in a party setting, where the ceremony is the launchpad for a bigger event. Your Celebrant will work with you to make sure the seriousness of the formal declarations of togetherness are matched by the atmosphere of a day to be cheered and enjoyed. These events can feel more like a wedding, but where the people being joined are not just the couple, but all children (and pets!) as well.
