Secular ceremony
Giving meaning to your union beyond tradition
Relaxed and informal, the charm of the secular ceremony is the long-awaited moment, both very personal and rich in emotion, to testify to your love and commitment in front of your family and friends.
From the floral arch, to the end of the bench, to the flowery aisle, we'll work together on every detail of floral design, synonymous with elegance and refinement, to illustrate your personal style and create many wonderful memories.
Frequently asked questions about organising a secular ceremony
- What is a secular ceremony?
A secular ceremony is a symbolic commitment ceremony, with no religious or administrative value. Unlike a civil wedding celebrated at the town hall or a religious wedding, it allows the bride and groom to create an entirely personalised moment, centred on their history, their values and their vision of the couple. In Paris and the Ile-de-France region, the secular ceremony has become a much sought-after alternative for couples wanting a tailor-made wedding.
- What is the difference between a secular ceremony and a civil wedding?
Civil marriage is the only marriage legally recognised in France and must be celebrated at the town hall. Secular ceremonies, on the other hand, have no legal value: they generally complement civil marriages. It adds an emotional and personal dimension that the institutional framework does not always allow.
- Why choose a secular ceremony for your wedding in Paris?
Opting for a secular ceremony in Paris gives you a great deal of freedom: choice of venue (private mansion, garden, rooftop overlooking the Eiffel Tower), choice of texts, rituals and speakers. It's the ideal solution for mixed couples, atheists or those wanting a modern, elegant wedding in an exceptional Parisian setting.
- Where to hold a secular ceremony in Paris?
Paris is full of prestigious venues for organising a secular ceremony: private gardens, barges on the Seine, private mansions, rooftops or reception rooms. Many estates around Paris also offer romantic and intimate settings. The choice of venue depends on the style you want (chic, bohemian, contemporary, classic) and the number of guests.
- How does a secular ceremony work?
On average, a lay ceremony lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. It generally includes :
- An entrance for the bride and groom
- An introductory speech by the officiant
- Testimonials from friends and family
- The exchange of vows
- One or more symbolic rituals (sand ritual, candle ritual, ribbon ritual, etc.)
- The exchange of alliances
- The proclamation and exit of the bride and groom
Each ceremony is fully customisable.
- Who can officiate a secular ceremony?
Unlike religious weddings, there is no official status for officiating a secular ceremony. The officiant can be someone close to the bride and groom or a specialist professional. Calling on an experienced wedding planner in Paris can ensure coordination, scenography and support in writing a fluid, elegant and perfectly orchestrated ceremony.
- What is the budget for a secular ceremony in Paris?
The budget depends on a number of factors: the reception venue, floral decorations, sound system, furniture hire, professional officiant and stage design. In Paris, the cost of a secular ceremony can vary depending on the level of personalisation and the standing of the venue chosen. Tailor-made support can optimise the budget while guaranteeing a top-of-the-range experience.
