Max + Olive | August 2023

One of my favourite parts of a naming ceremony is the names themselves, and hearing why they were chosen. Max and Olive, with their West African heritage being hugely important to their mum and dad, have been given traditional Ghanaian middle names to mark the day of the week they were born.

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Hugh Fenwick | August 2023

Hugh was a determined, resourceful and resilient man who, as a child of 13, was brought to post-war Britain from his childhood home of Kenya, left at boarding school with just a cheque for the fees…and didn’t see his family again for two years.

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Gayle + James at Brinkburn | July 2023

We did something really special in Gayle and James’ ceremony: after they exchanged rings I produced a pueblo vase and explained the history of the New Mexican tradition. The vase has been part of Pueblo life for centuries; traditionally used in weddings, but they've become a moving symbol of love. Traditionally the vase is filled with holy water, but…we went with champagne

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Hope + Leo | July 2023

The couple had gone through multiple rounds of IVF to have their precious twins and so it was emotional hearing about their journey, delivering the story in front of their loved ones, and meeting the people (“their village”) who had played such supportive roles…

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Winefride Douglas | July 2023

I love chatting to the family when I’m planning a celebration of life; it’s such a privilege to listen to stories spill out and - in Winefride’s case - I soon discovered that she had a brilliantly rebellious side.

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Isla Rae | March 2023

Smiley baby Isla - the only child at the ceremony - was the uncontested star of the show. As the first grandchild in the family, and first baby among her parents’ friends, you could just see how besotted everyone is with her.

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Lottie Isabelle | March 2023

Lottie’s ceremony was particularly special as we are friends with her parents Andie and Jess; they kindly invited my cheer-leading husband Jonny and twins too. It was slightly nerve-wracking to look out on a sea of familiar faces…

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Philip Tattersall | March 2023

There is something magnetic and warm about the Tattersalls - I ended up staying for a pizza and salad lunch as they regaled me with tales of their dad (or Grandpa) round a huge kitchen table. I’ll never forget the way that they made me feel part of the family for such an important day.

Read More
Sarah Clarke
Connie Theia | January 2023

Leading my first naming ceremony didn’t feel at all nerve-wracking - there was so much love and excitement in the room. Plus, given it was taking place in a rugby club with the bar open, the vibes were pretty chill…and celebratory!

Read More
Sarah Clarke