The Wedding Edit: Chloe and Finlay at Clandeboye Lodge
Chloe and Finlay got married at the beautiful Clandeboye Lodge in September 2024, and honestly, from the moment I met them I knew their day was going to be something special. They came to me wanting a ceremony that felt genuinely like them – relaxed, warm, full of laughter and love – and that is exactly what we created together. I asked them a few questions about their experience, and here is what they had to say.
What made you want a humanist wedding and what style were you going for?
We wanted a humanist wedding as we are not religious and love the personal aspect it provides. We aimed for a relaxed, laid back wedding and Stefanie definitely helped us achieve this – she understood our plans perfectly.
How did you find the planning process?
Brilliant. Communication was super easy via WhatsApp, Google Meet and a coffee meet up. Everything was so seamless and nothing was a bother. Being involved in sharing both our sides of the story made the ceremony personal and humorous, and when we received the script we were so excited – it was written with excellent attention to detail and captured our story perfectly.
How did the ceremony itself feel?
Surreal and magical. The attention to our love story was fantastic, and the secret questions added something exciting and different. We chose a reading we both loved, and Stefanie delivered it with the most passionate and loving words, adding something really special to the day.
What was your friends’ and family’s reaction?
They loved it. Most of them had never been to a humanist ceremony before. They loved how personal it was and how it really built a picture of our life and love story.
What made Clandeboye Lodge the right venue for you?
It was the perfect location – so beautiful with the wooden details and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
How would you describe Stefanie’s style as a celebrant?
Down to earth, approachable and helpful, with great advice and such a warm and welcoming professional attitude. You really are fantastic at your job, being able to deliver and write such an excellent ceremony. You are just a fantastic person and we are so glad we decided to share our wedding with you – you really made our day.
Finally, what advice would you offer to other couples just starting to plan?
Relax, don’t sweat the small stuff and enjoy the process – it is the most exciting time of your life. Ask all the questions and have fun planning. Make sure you find suppliers who you love and they will add all the magic to your day.
What a gorgeous way to put it. Chloe and Finlay, thank you so much for sharing your words and for letting me be part of your day. If you are thinking about a humanist ceremony for your own wedding and would love something that feels exactly like you, I would love to have a chat.
Chloe and Finlay got married at The Clandeboye Lodge Hotel, and were captured by Melissa Wright Photography.
Stefanie Onipko is a humanist wedding celebrant based in Donaghadee, Northern Ireland, offering weddings, vow renewals and naming ceremonies across Belfast, County Down, County Antrim and beyond.