Isla Rae | March 2023
“We can’t thank you enough! Everyone said how amazing you were - such a special, special day.”
Being the celebrant for Isla Rae’s naming ceremony was like one big, warm hug, from start to finish. Isla’s parents Ella and David (founders of Nland 250) are such warm, enthusiastic people and it was a pleasure to plan the ceremony together, hear about their extended family and get a sneak peek at the surprise planned for the day: a video montage, set to music, of loved ones screaming with delight and disbelief as they each found out about Ella’s pregnancy and then Isla’s arrival. On the day itself, the room was buzzing with laughter and, then during the video, tears upon tears.
All photography by the wonderful Carla Whittingham
Smiley baby Isla - the only child at the ceremony - was the uncontested star of the show. As the first grandchild in the family, and first baby among her parents’ friends, you could just see how besotted everyone is with her.
And Northumberland’s Healey Barn was the perfect cosy place for the day’s celebrations: one room was set up for the ceremony, another for the roast chicken lunch afterwards, and plenty of quaint courtyard space for guests to enjoy a drinks reception…and queue up for their chance to cuddle Isla.
Isla’s parents and guide parents take part in a candle ceremony
Isla’s guide parents Alice and Rob (childhood friends of Ella and David) made their promises of support and guidance to Isla, and then all four grown ups took part in a little candle lighting ceremony. The symbolism behind the candle lighting is that each person’s lit candle shows their own individual gifts, personality and warmth then, together, they light a central candle which symbolises Isla’s life and the parts they each play in helping her grow, learn and feel loved.
Ceremony highlights included a video montage of loved ones finding out about Isla’s arrival
Ella’s beloved grandpa Ben read from children’s book Here We Are by Oliver Jeffers, which was perfect for the occasion and had Isla absolutely enthralled. This is one little extract from the reading:
Well, hello.
Welcome to this planet. We call it Earth.
It is the big globe, floating in space on which we live.
We’re glad you found us, as space is very big.
The day was just such a happy occasion - everyone giddy with love and support for these first-time parents with their new little family. And I was giddy to be involved and witness all the joy.