Category: weddings

humanist, Humanist Weddings, Uncategorized

Industrial Romance

MM The Celebrant

The Best Glasgow Wedding Venues for a Proper City Celebration

There’s something special about a Glasgow wedding — it’s got heart, grit, and a whole lot of soul. More and more couples are turning away from the traditional country house and instead embracing industrial wedding venues that showcase the city’s true character.

Two of the best examples? BaAD at the Barras and WEST on the Green — iconic, urban spaces that celebrate Glasgow’s roots while giving you the perfect backdrop for unforgettable wedding photos.

As MM The Celebrant, a proper Glasgow celebrant, I’ve had the joy of officiating ceremonies in both. And I can tell you — these venues don’t just look amazing, they feel authentic too

BaAD at the Barras – Industrial Cool with Glasgow Soul

If you’re looking for a unique Glasgow wedding venue – BaAD – is unbeatable. Nestled in the heart of the Barras Market, this glass-roofed, industrial-chic space brings together everything couples love about the city — creativity, community, and character.

With its exposed brick, high ceilings, and natural light, BaAD gives you a stunning setting that needs very little dressing up. You can go bold and modern, or keep it soft and romantic — either way, it’s a photographer’s dream.

As a Glasgow wedding celebrant, I love BaAD because it feels personal and also flexible. You can make it totally your own — a relaxed, laughter-filled ceremony surrounded by the city’s buzzing energy. This is Glasgow at its best.

WEST on the Green – A Glasgow Landmark with a Modern Twist

Over by Glasgow Green, WEST Brewery offers something truly special. Set inside the iconic Templeton Building, this venue is steeped in history — with those famous red-brick arches and vast windows giving you a dramatic industrial backdrop.

It’s perfect for couples who want a stylish Glasgow wedding venue that mixes heritage and contemporary flair. Inside, the working brewery adds a unique twist (and some seriously good pints for the reception!).

As someone who’s led ceremonies here, I can say WEST offers that rare blend — industrial elegance and warm hospitality. Plus, the photo opportunities are next level cool. The contrast between the architecture and your wedding style makes for breathtaking, proper Glasgow wedding photos.

Why Industrial Wedding Venues Work So Well in Glasgow

Industrial venues are full of texture, tone, and authenticity — just like the city itself. They let your personality shine without forcing a theme. Add some greenery, candlelight, and personal touches, and you’ll have a setting that feels both romantic and real.

And when you work with a Glasgow wedding celebrant like MM The Celebrant, you get a ceremony that fits right in — fun, heartfelt, a little bit cheeky, and full of Glasgow warmth. It’s not just about saying “I do”; it’s about celebrating who you are and where you’re from.

A Proper Glasgow Wedding – Real, Raw, and Full of Heart

Whether you’re walking down the aisle under the glass roof at BaAD or toasting your love at WEST Brewery, an industrial Glasgow wedding is all about connection — to each other and to the city you love.

These venues let you tell your story your way — bold, beautiful, and unmistakably Glasgow. And with MM The Celebrant leading the way, you’ll have a ceremony that’s just as unique as your venue.

Because at the end of the day, a proper Glasgow wedding isn’t about perfection — it’s about personality. And that’s something this city delivers in spades.

Check out the venues here BaAD WEST Weddings

Read more: Industrial Romance

Humanist Weddings, Relationships, Stay Safe, Uncategorized, wedding planning

Sober Celebrations

MM The Celebrant

Pure Weddings: Why Sobriety Can Make the Best Celebrations

As a celebrant, I get paid to celebrate other people’s big days. I love it — having the ceremony ready, getting dressed up, make-up on, that “let’s do this” feeling.

But if I’m honest, I didn’t grow up loving any sort of party. They usually meant my mum going from a loving, funny, charming, kind, strong character of a wummin to a crying, paranoid, sick wreck who would stay in bed for days while we, as children roamed the streets, late at night, hunting for alka seltzer or askit powders!

Dragged up between the East End and the Gorbals as a child, “celebration” meant something very different. New Year, or New Fear as I called it, in our house was less Auld Lang Syne and more Auld Lang Crime.

It always started well. The cleanest house in the street — lino scrubbed to within an inch of its life. Cushions fluffed? Don’t be daft. If you wanted comfort you brought your coat.

A pot of peas on the go, sometimes, there’d even be a pie if there was any money to spare. A massive pot of soup ready for the first-footers, bubbling away like the star of the show.

The drinks brought out of hiding; a bottle of whisky for the men, Harvey’s Bristol Cream [sherry] for the ladies – Babycham for the weans – yes, I know (6% ABV) — pure sophistication personified and we weren’t even European yet!.

In later years I remember the whisky and sherry gave way to cans of Carlsberg, Lanliq and Eldorado. These modern refreshment, ensured the party was very quickly turned into a ‘super’ charged chaotic nightmare. Kids cowering on a pile of coats in the corner – trying to sleep, Babycham kicking in.

Fast forward 24 hours… soup on the ceiling, mum distraught, dad on the run (or in the jail). Not exactly the kind of Hogmanay they they advertise on that Visit Scotland site.

So yes — when I say there is a place for sober celebrations, I mean it. I’ve seen the other side.

And when it comes to weddings, there are real reasons to consider keeping it alcohol-free, especially if sobriety or alcoholism is part of family life.

7 Reasons to Have a Sober Wedding

1. Protects recovery
If someone close to you is newly sober, a wedding without alcohol gives them the best chance to enjoy the day safely.

2. Cuts the drama
No drunken arguments, no missing groomsmen, no guests falling into the buffet table.

3. Everyone remembers it
Literally. Nobody wakes up the next morning wondering who they kissed during Loch Lomond.

4. Children feel included
Weddings with fewer drunk adults are much more fun (and safer) for wee ones.

5. Showcases creativity
Mocktail bars, dessert stations, ceilidhs, silent discos — the fun comes from the activities, not the alcohol.

6. Lasting photographs
Your wedding album is full of smiles, not half-shut eyes and red faces.

7. Pure love, pure memories
When alcohol isn’t part of the equation, the focus stays exactly where it should be — on the couple and the commitment they’ve made.

With love,

Your Sober Celebrant

Read My Story Here

Etiquette, Fun, hospitality, Humanist Weddings, Love, Mindfulness, proposal, Relationships, restrictions, wedding planning, weddings

Worst Wedding Guest!

MM The Celebrant

7 Things NOT to Do at a Wedding (Unless You Want to Be Uninvited from Future Ones)

Ah, weddings. A magical day filled with love, joy, and at least one tipsy uncle embarrassing himself on the dance floor. But while the happy couple is basking in their big moment, there are some things you, as a guest (or even part of the wedding party), absolutely should NOT do. Unless, of course, your goal is to become the person everyone whispers about for years to come.

Here are seven things you should definitely avoid doing at a wedding:

1. Don’t Wear White (Or Anything That Screams, ‘Look at Me!’)

It’s the couple’s day, not your personal runway show. Leave the white, ivory, or anything remotely bridal-looking in your wardrobe where it belongs. Also, avoid anything so flashy that it could double as a disco ball. If guests need sunglasses to look at you, you’ve gone too far.

2. Don’t Propose to Your Partner

Yes, weddings are romantic, but hijacking someone else’s big day to pop the question is a major no-no. Unless you’ve explicitly cleared it with the couple, keep that ring in your pocket. This is their moment—yours can wait.

3. Don’t Get Sloppily Drunk

A few drinks? Sure! Slurring your words and challenging the groom to a dance-off? Not so much. No one wants to see you hugging the cake table for support. Pace yourself, hydrate, and remember that if you wouldn’t do it in front of your gran, maybe don’t do it at a wedding.

4. Don’t Complain About the Food

Maybe you’re not a fan of the fish. Maybe the cake is a little dry. Maybe the vegan option tastes like cardboard. But you know what tastes worse? Rudeness. Smile, nod, and pretend you’re on an episode of a cooking show where the judges only say nice things.

5. Don’t Bring a Plus-One Who Wasn’t Invited

Weddings are carefully planned, from seating arrangements to catering numbers. Turning up with a “surprise” plus-one is like showing up at a dinner party with a stray dog—sure, it might be cute, but it’s also a logistical nightmare.

6. Don’t Hog the Photographer

Yes, professional photographers take beautiful pictures, but that doesn’t mean you should turn their time into your own personal photoshoot. Let them focus on the couple instead of spending 20 minutes capturing your “best angles.”

7. Don’t Try to Be the Star of the Show

Whether it’s an over-the-top speech, an unsolicited performance, or an impromptu wardrobe malfunction on the dance floor, weddings are not your talent showcase. Keep it classy, enjoy the event, and let the couple shine.

Final Thoughts

Weddings are about celebrating love, not testing social boundaries. So, be the guest everyone wants to invite again—dress appropriately, keep the drinks in check, and, for the love of all things good, let the couple have their moment.

Oh, and if you do break any of these rules… at least make sure someone gets it on video. For, you know, educational purposes.

For more about wedding etiquette click Here!

humanist weddings, Humanist Weddings

Why a Wee Wedding?

MM The Celebrant

7 Brilliant Advantages of a Wee Wedding in Scotland

Big weddings are grand, but have you ever considered the charm of a “wee wedding”? Think intimate, personal, and—let’s be honest—less faff. Whether it’s in your granny’s garden, the pub where you met, or your own cosy living room, here are seven reasons why a small wedding might just be the best decision you ever make (other than saying ‘I do’, of course!).

1. You Save a Fortune (More Money for the Honeymoon!)

Large weddings can cost the equivalent of a small castle, but a wee wedding? That’s a budget-friendly dream! Spend less on chair covers and canapés, and more on a spectacular honeymoon—or even a deposit on a house. Imagine sipping cocktails in the Maldives instead of stressing over a seating plan.

2. Less Stress, More Fun

Fewer guests mean fewer logistics. No need to wrangle a hundred people into a group photo or worry about distant relatives falling out over the chicken or fish. A wee wedding means you actually get to enjoy your day instead of micromanaging it.

3. The Venue Can Be Somewhere Truly Meaningful

Why book an expensive venue when you can say your vows in the pub where you had your first date? Or in your best friend’s garden, under fairy lights? A small wedding lets you choose a place that actually means something to you, rather than a generic wedding hall that smells faintly of stress and Prosecco.

4. Everyone Actually Gets to Speak to Each Other

At a big wedding, you spend half the day nodding politely at distant cousins you’ve never met. A wee wedding means real conversations, proper belly laughs, and an actual chance to soak in the love. No need for awkward introductions when everyone already knows each other!

5. The Food Can Be Exactly What You Want

Forget the mass-produced chicken supreme! With a small wedding, you can have fish and chips, a barbecue, or even a takeaway from your favourite curry house. One couple even got married in their living room and ordered in pizza—pure genius!

6. No Obligatory Plus-Ones or Distant Relatives

No offence to your mum’s work colleague’s daughter, but does she really need to be there? A small wedding gives you permission to invite only the people who truly matter. No guilt, no awkward small talk, just your nearest and dearest celebrating with you.

7. It’s Unique, Personal, and Unforgettable

Big weddings can sometimes feel a bit “copy and paste”—same structure, same routine. But a wee wedding? That’s all about you. Whether it’s a DIY setup in your house, a surprise elopement, or a handfasting in your pal’s garden, your day will be one-of-a-kind.

Final Thought

A wee wedding isn’t just a budget-friendly option—it’s a chance to have a day that’s all about love, laughter, and zero stress. So whether you’re tying the knot in a tiny cottage, your favourite pub, or your own back garden, remember: size doesn’t matter, but memories do!

For more about Wee Weddings Click Here!

Humanist Weddings

Why MM The Celebrant?

MM The Celebrant

Why Would You Ask Me to Marry You?

7 Reasons to Choose MM The Celebrant for your wedding!

When planning your wedding, selecting the right celebrant can transform your ceremony into a deeply meaningful moment. You want someone who’s not only professional but also heartfelt, adaptable, and fully committed to your unique love story. That’s where I come in—I’m a celebrant with a deep love for Scottish traditions and a passion for Italian culture. Here are seven reasons why I could be the perfect choice to officiate your big day.

1. Passion for Italian Culture

Though I don’t come from an Italian background, my time living in Italy has given me a profound appreciation for its rich culture. Whether it’s the warmth of Italian hospitality or the beautiful language, I bring my love for all things Italian into my work here in Scotland. I proudly wear the Clan Italia Tartan, designed by Michael Lemetti, as a symbol of my dedication to celebrating and promoting Italian heritage within Scottish culture.

2. A Celebrant Who Understands the Power of Love

Having spent years as a mother, traveler, and now a celebrant, I’ve seen love take on many forms. My experiences shape how I connect with couples, bringing depth, empathy, and a genuine desire to honor your unique relationship. Your love story is what makes your ceremony special, and I’m here to help you tell it in the most meaningful way.

3. Tailored Ceremonies Just for You

Your wedding ceremony should be a true reflection of who you are as a couple, and I’m dedicated to crafting a service that’s as unique as your love story. I’ll work closely with you to ensure that every element, from the vows to the rituals, feels personal and significant. Whether you’d like to incorporate Scottish traditions or Italian influences (or both!), I’ll ensure your ceremony is completely bespoke.

4. A Spirit of Adventure and Resilience

Just like love, life’s greatest moments often come with unexpected challenges. My passion for outdoor swimming in cold Scottish waters is a reminder of the resilience and adventure I bring to my life and my work. No matter what comes our way on your wedding day, I’ll be there to ensure everything runs smoothly with grace and flexibility.

5. Inclusivity and Respect for All Cultures

I believe that love has no boundaries, and your wedding ceremony should reflect the inclusivity and respect that all relationships deserve. Whether you’re blending cultures, embracing modern love, or honoring unique traditions, I’ll work with you to make sure your ceremony feels inclusive, authentic, and reflective of who you are as a couple.

6. A Friendly and Supportive Partner

From our first conversation to the moment you exchange vows, I’ll be by your side every step of the way. As a celebrant, I pride myself on being approachable, friendly, and fully invested in your happiness. Together, we’ll create a ceremony that’s stress-free and filled with joy, so you can focus on each other and the meaning of the day.

7. Traditional Yet Personalized Touches

While I love Scottish traditions, I also believe in creating ceremonies that feel personal and modern. From traditional elements like Scottish handfasting to Italian influences such as an olive branch exchange, I’ll help you strike the perfect balance between honoring the past and celebrating your future together.

weddings

Why Marry in Scotland?

MM The Celebrant

The Beauty of Getting Married in Scotland: A Celebration of Love and Tradition

Few places in the world offer such a breathtaking combination of natural beauty, rich history, and timeless romance as Scotland. For couples dreaming of a wedding filled with dramatic landscapes, enchanting castles, and deep cultural roots, Scotland stands out as a perfect destination. Here’s why tying the knot in this captivating country is truly magical:

1. Majestic Landscapes

Scotland is home to some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on earth. From the rolling hills of the Highlands to the tranquil lochs and rugged coastlines, the country’s natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for your big day. Imagine saying your vows with a backdrop of the misty mountains of Glencoe or exchanging rings on the shores of Loch Ness. The diversity of landscapes ensures that no matter what your dream wedding setting is—whether a windswept cliffside or a lush forest—Scotland has it all.

2. Romantic Castles

Scotland is dotted with magnificent castles, each offering a slice of history and a touch of fairytale romance. Whether it’s the iconic Eilean Donan Castle perched on a small island or the grand halls of Edinburgh Castle overlooking the city, these ancient fortresses provide a unique and dramatic venue. Many of them offer exclusive wedding packages, allowing couples to marry in the same halls that once hosted kings, queens, and nobility. It’s an experience that truly makes you feel like royalty on your special day.

3. Rich Traditions

Scottish weddings are steeped in beautiful traditions, many of which can add a meaningful touch to your ceremony. The ancient ritual of “handfasting,” where the couple’s hands are tied together with ribbons to symbolize their union, is just one of many cultural customs that make a Scottish wedding so special. Add a bagpiper to serenade you as you walk down the aisle, and the unmistakable sound of Scotland will fill the air, blending tradition with the joy of celebration.

4. Flexible Legal Options

Scotland is one of the few countries in the world where you can get married almost anywhere, thanks to its flexible marriage laws. You’re not limited to churches or civil venues—if you dream of a mountain-top ceremony or a quiet wedding by a loch, Scottish law allows it. This freedom means your wedding can be as intimate, adventurous, or as grand as you like. You can exchange vows under the open sky in nature’s cathedral, surrounded by the beauty of Scotland.

5. Welcoming Hospitality

Scots are known for their warmth and hospitality, making any wedding in Scotland feel deeply personal and inviting. From local vendors, wedding planners, and venues, you’ll find people who are eager to help make your day perfect. Whether it’s a small elopement or a large family affair, you’ll be met with enthusiasm, attention to detail, and a genuine love for the celebration of marriage.

6. Weather and Magic

While Scotland may have a reputation for unpredictable weather, many couples embrace the charm of a little Highland rain. In fact, rain on your wedding day is considered good luck! Plus, the ever-changing skies often give way to some of the most stunning light displays—from soft, golden sunsets to vibrant rainbows arcing over ancient castles and lochs. The misty atmosphere adds a touch of magic to the already enchanting surroundings, giving your wedding an ethereal, almost otherworldly feel.

7. Endless Photo Opportunities

For photographers, Scotland is a dream come true. Every corner of the country offers picturesque settings that will make your wedding photos extraordinary. Whether it’s an intimate moment captured on the edge of a cliff, or a playful shot under a stone archway in an old castle, the Scottish scenery will ensure your memories are beautifully preserved in every shot.

8. Honeymoon Heaven

After the wedding, Scotland’s beauty doesn’t stop. The country is the perfect honeymoon destination as well! From exploring the bustling streets of Edinburgh or Glasgow to taking a romantic trip to the Isle of Skye, Scotland has something for every couple. You can hike through ancient forests, visit whisky distilleries, or relax in a cozy cottage by a roaring fire—making your first days as newlyweds an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Getting married in Scotland isn’t just about the ceremony—it’s about immersing yourself in a landscape rich in history, natural beauty, and romance. Whether you’re drawn to a grand castle, a serene loch, or a windswept hilltop, Scotland offers an unforgettable wedding experience that’s truly one of a kind. For couples seeking a wedding that feels magical, personal, and deeply rooted in tradition, there’s no place quite like Scotland.

Your Scottish wedding will be more than just a day—it will be an adventure, a celebration, and a story that will be remembered for a lifetime.

To find out more click here!

celebrate life, Celebrations, Civil Celebrant, electricity,, familial love, Fun, Life, Love, Mindfulness, poetry, Relationship Advice

What is Love?

MM The Celebrant

As the sun sets on my romantic dreams!

I still don’t understand what it is!

A bit like electricity?

Love is like a light switch which turns on and, in my case off—I still don’t understand how that works either. Sometimes love lights up your world, other times it shocks the heck out of you, and occasionally it leaves you in the dark, wondering if you paid the bill!

Love is indeed complex, like trying to fold a fitted sheet. We think there’s a “right way” to do it, but let’s be honest—most of us are just rolling it up and hoping it doesn’t unravel at the worst possible moment which is a bit like some relationships.

Yes, familial love is often considered the simplest and most instinctive form of love. It’s like the Wi-Fi of relationships—always there, connecting you whether you like it or not. Sibling love, in particular, is a special kind of chaos. One minute you’re ready to donate a kidney, the next you’re wondering how they’ve managed to annoy you with just their breathing. But that’s love—equal parts devotion and exasperation!

Romantic love is definitely like a roller coaster designed by a mad scientist—thrilling, confusing, sometimes making you scream, and yet, you keep getting back in line. One moment, you’re writing love poems in your head; the next, you’re arguing over who left the cap off the toothpaste. It’s wild, unpredictable, and just when you think you’ve got it figured out, it flips upside down. Honestly, understanding romantic love is like trying to read a novel in a language you don’t speak, but you’re too invested to put it down!

Platonic love with men can feel like trying to keep a cat off your keyboard—no matter how many times you explain the boundaries, they keep testing them. It’s that deep connection where you think, “Are we friends?” and then, boom, they’re looking at you like you’re the last piece of pizza on the platonic platter. Love should be all about shared values, trust, and having a laugh—but sometimes, we misread the map and ends up at “Kissville” when you’re just trying to chill in “Pals Town”.

Self-love is definitely the best!

No need for mind games or decoding mixed signals—it’s just you, appreciating yourself like the absolute legend you are. You always know what you want for dinner, how you like your coffee, and let’s be honest, no one gives you a better pep talk than you. It’s the most straightforward relationship you’ll ever have, plus you never have to share the last piece of your saucy orecchiette!

Now that’s true love!

To find our more about becoming a celebrant CLICK

humanist weddings, Humanist Weddings, Uncategorized

Need a Celebrant?

MM The Celebrant

I am authorised to conduct legal weddings in Scotland!

MMTheCelebrant is a wedding celebrant based out of Glasgow City Centre, serving the greater area of Scotland. Officiant Margaret Mazzone aims to create a bespoke ceremony for every couple, helping to make their big day feel even more meaningful. She loves to bring fun and happiness everywhere she goes and ensures every couple’s ceremony is unique, and their story is told from the heart. Margaret is authorised to conduct legally binding ceremonies in the venue of your choice, anywhere in Scotland.

Services Offered

MMTheCelebrant will work closely with you throughout the planning process to ensure the ceremony script aligns with your vision, telling your story your way. You’re invited to meet with Margaret for a consultation before getting to know her and her style. This can be followed by a ceremony planning meeting, where she will answer any questions you might have.

Please get in Touch!

Let me help you tell your story!

If you need to know more about me click on Hitched!

Hitched.co.uk

#bekind, celebrate life, Funerals, Glasgow, Love, poetry, Poetry

To my Daughters!

MM The Celebrant 
I am all around you
you'll hear me in the wind!

Listen for it joyfully
When you need me in the night
It's whisper it will remind you
How to get it right!

Look up and you'll see me
Shining in the sun!

My warmth, it will surround you
Caress you when you're sad
Don't despair, I'm always there 
in good times and in bad!

My memory will lead you
And soon you'll understand 
Remember just how strong you were
When last, you, held my hand!

My laughter is a part of you
Make it loud and clear
I've given you the tools you need
You are strong 
My Dear!

Margaret Mazzone

Read more poetry here!

: To my Daughters!
Humanist Weddings, Uncategorized

Honey Kisses!

MM The Celebrant

What are wedding rituals?

What is the significance of honey?

What one would you use?

Continue reading “Honey Kisses!” →