Gemma and John | Bigstrup Farm

You know those couples who just get each other, the ones who handle all the nitty gritty of life with a sense of humour? That’s Gemma and John to a tee. But what really makes their story special is how they’ve brought their two families together, creating a new, blended one full of love, laughter and a little bit of chaos.

Their journey began a few years back on Tinder. Gemma spotted John and was pretty impressed, but John didn’t swipe right, worried his mum might find out he was on a dating app! (Spoiler: she did!) From there, their paths crossed properly, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Fast forward a few years, and here they are, raising their gorgeous blended family of three - Georgia, Hughie and Pollie - plus their two lively dogs, Ned and Pip. Their home is a whirlwind of school runs and muddy paws.

Now, let’s talk about the proposal! John had planned to propose on Gemma’s 40th birthday, but she decided she didn’t fancy going out. So, he waited until the next night, at her 80s-themed party, where he dropped to one knee dressed as Freddie Mercury from the ‘I Want to Break Free’ video wearing a wig, fake moustache, tights and all! How could Gemma say no to that??

Their August wedding at the beautiful Bigstrup Farm was a true celebration of their family. Gemma’s dad, Brian, proudly walked her down the aisle, following the bridal party of Rachel, Georgia and Pollie. Hughie and Sam handled usher duties like pros, and groomsman Lewis made sure John was calm, collected and (most impressively) on time.

But what stood out most was how every part of the ceremony included their children and reflected their new family unit. That’s what I adored most about Gemma and John’s ceremony - it wasn’t just about two people getting married, but about a family coming together. The laughter, the nods to their children and even their dogs, the way everyone was included. It was a celebration of all the little moments and connections that make a blended family so special.

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Tips for Including Children and Stepchildren in Your Ceremony

If you’re planning a wedding and want your children or stepchildren to feel truly part of your day, here are some creative and meaningful ways to include them:

1. Family Unity Rituals

Consider a unity ceremony that involves everyone, such as a sand ceremony, where each family member pours a different colour of sand into a single vessel, symbolising your new life together. Or try a unity candle, handfasting or planting a tree as a family.

2. Involve Them in the Processional

Have your children walk down the aisle with you, as part of the bridal party, as flower children or ring bearers. To make it a little more fun, give them bubble guns!

3. Family Vows

Include a special moment in the ceremony where you all make promises to each other, not just as a couple, but as a family. Older children can even write their own vows or share a few words.

4. Signing the Certificate Together

Invite your children to sign a keepsake wedding certificate or family pledge. It’s a beautiful way to mark the start of your new chapter.

5. Special Readings or Performances

Let your children read a poem, share a favourite story or even perform a song, giving them the chance for them to express their feelings and be celebrated.

6. Family Medals or Gifts

Present your children with a small token or gift during the ceremony, symbolising your bond and commitment as a family.

7. Get Creative!

Think outside the box - have a family first dance, create a family crest or include your pets in the ceremony. The more personal, the better!

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That’s the beauty of a celebrant-led wedding: it can be as personal, inclusive and meaningful as you want it to be.

If you’d love a ceremony that celebrates your family, however it’s made up, I’d love to help you create it!

👉 Get in touch!

Photographer - Revamped Image Photography | Personal Brand Photographer in Buckinghamshire