All The Why's

Question

Why the Aunties'?

Answer

The Aunties' property was Manda's first ever "home" and a place where James immediately felt at home. This land is sacred to them both. Aunt Cindy and Aunt Deb are Manda's "North Stars", and after Manda and James asked the Aunties to marry them, they graciously offered their home where they were also married after being together for 31 years!

Question

Why is it called a "Commitment Ceremony?"

Answer

If you’ve noticed we’re calling this a commitment ceremony instead of a wedding, that’s very much on purpose—and very much us. Nothing about our story has followed a conventional script, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’ve always chosen the path that feels right rather than the one that’s expected, and this celebration is no exception. At its core, marriage isn’t about matching placemats or salad forks—it’s about the promise. The choosing. The commitment. This day is about honoring that commitment and sharing it with the community that has loved us, supported us, and walked alongside us through every unexpected turn. We’re gathering not just to celebrate a moment, but to affirm a lifetime of intention and partnership. This is us, marking the moment we commit—not just for a day, but for a lifetime—to growing, loving, and building a life together, in front of the people who mean the most to us.

Question

Why is it called a "Commitment Coven?"

Answer

In short, we needed a name for our group of people that expressed our love and connection more richly than "wedding party." Each member of the coven is part of a chosen family that has shaped us. A coven, in our sense, is a circle of support: those who invoke wisdom when needed and add their own spark of light to the creation of this ritual. Think of them as the gentle stewards of the weekend—the ones who help the magic stay grounded and the grounded moments feel a little magical. Each of them bring gifts, strengths, and ways of being that we cherish. We want to name how meaningful it is that we can lean on them all throughout the weekend. We especially want to thank them for saying yes, for showing up with open hearts, and for joining us in shaping this celebration.

Question

Why the Summer Solstice?

Answer

Our family celebrates all of the Wheel of the Year holidays. We honor the Sun and the Moon regularly. The word "solstice" means "sun stands still." We take this day as an invitation to reflect on the year so far and what we want to give and take for the remaining seasons that lay ahead.