There are some ceremonies that stay with you long after the final words are spoken, and Lucy and Mark’s renewal of vows was one of them. On a bright, golden afternoon, the balcony at the DoubleTree Hilton in Lincoln became the stage for something truly magical. Overlooking the cathedral, with sunlight warming our circle and the joyful energy of the Thrive Tribe gathered around, Lucy and Mark celebrated sixteen years of marriage with a handfasting that was both heartfelt and powerful.

A Life Already Full of Love

As I welcomed the Thrive Tribers, it was impossible not to reflect on the life Lucy and Mark have already built together. In sixteen years, they have raised four beautiful children, poured heart and soul into a successful business, and travelled across the world collecting stories, memories, and adventures. This ceremony wasn’t about starting a new chapter—it was about honouring a love story already rich with legacy.

The Handfasting Ritual

Handfasting is one of my favourite rituals as a celebrant. With cords of colour and meaning, we quite literally bind two lives together, honouring both where a couple has been and where they are going. For Lucy and Mark, each cord told part of their story:

• Red for passion and the strength that carried them through life’s trials.
• Blue for the oceans they crossed and the flow of love that endures through change.
• Green for the family roots they’ve nurtured in their four children.
• Gold for the abundance they’ve created together in home, business, and shared achievements.

As their hands were bound, the Thrive Tribe showed love and energy, holding space for vows that were both tender and profound.

Renewing Their Vows

Sixteen years ago, Lucy and Mark promised to walk life’s path together. On this day, they chose to make that promise again—not because they had to, but because they wanted to. Their vows spoke of choice, of loyalty, and of a love that remains their constant star. There was laughter, there were tears, and above all, there was an overwhelming sense of celebration—not just of a marriage, but of everything that marriage has carried them through.

A Blessing for Their Journey

I closed with a blessing of their hands: hands that have built a business, cradled children, comforted through challenges, and celebrated triumphs. The final binding reminded us all that the cords do not restrict—they symbolise freedom and choice, the decision to walk together through every season of life.

So May It Be

As I pronounced them once more bound in love, the circle of family, friends, and tribe erupted in joy. The cathedral stood tall behind us, a witness to the moment, while the sunlight poured its blessing over the balcony. Lucy and Mark—handfasted once more. Sixteen years of love behind them, and a lifetime still ahead. So mote it be.