Kirsty Woods and Ryan McClenaghan pictured before their virtual handfasting ceremony on Saturday.

Couple’s virtual ceremony to mark postponed big day

A Spalding couple who marked what would have been their wedding day with a virtual ceremony, said they both had pre-ceremony jitters.

Kirsty Woods and Ryan McClenaghan organised a virtual handfasting ceremony over Zoom on Saturday – the day they would have wed had their big day not been postponed due to the coronavirus crisis.

Kirsty said: “The day before the ceremony we decorated our lounge to look ceremony-ready with flowers and we prepped candles, rings and the handfasting cord which was made from McClenaghan tartan.”

On the day the couple were treated to afternoon tea from Pacey’s, organised by Kirsty’s mum, along with a bouquet and bottle of bubbly delivered by their maid of honour and bridesmaid.

Kirsty added: “Ryan and I both had pre-ceremony jitters – we were both so excited but nervous at the same time, it felt like we were really prepping for our wedding day.

“The ceremony started at our original wedding time of 2pm when we were joined by our wedding party and celebrant Ellie Brooks of Wildflower Ceremonies.

“The ceremony was just beautiful, we exchanged rings and shared our favourite poem Love by Roy Croft. It has made us feel even closer as a couple and has been another addition to our special journey to becoming husband and wife.

“Although we have not yet had the big special day as we had originally planned, the ceremony marked our original date beautifully and helped us reflect on what really matters – we have each other and our friends and family are safe.

“After the ceremony we opened some bubbles and listened to music that we would like at our wedding day next year.

“We were overwhelmed with the kindness and well wishes of friends and family with cards, gifts delivered and messages on social media.

“Also a huge thank you to Ellie, who did the ceremony for free in exchange for us making a £15 donation towards the NHS, which was really kind of her.”

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