New Year – New Trends … April 19, 2021 – Posted in: Celebrant

In the pre-pandemic world, New Year and the Christmas holidays were a time to press pause and have a re-think about everything. After all the hectic rushing around of the preceding months, it felt right to enjoy some simple pleasures – like a walk by the sea or in the countryside – and to take the opportunity to reflect on our lives. It was a time to take stock.

During this enforced break, most of us had the luxury of not only enjoying the moment but also to make plans for the future. As well as the inevitable gym memberships and worthy resolutions, these were the most popular days to book holidays and also to make marriage proposals.

But its not all about self improvement and positive plans. This uninterrupted family time can starkly highlight problems in a flawed relationship. As the host of a radio magazine programme, I would schedule an interview with a celebrity divorce lawyer on the first show of the New Year as, unfortunately, this is the most usual time for couples to split up. It is also a busy time for therapists and counsellors as we should not forget that “the holidays” (apologies for the Americanism) can be a lonely and dark time for many.

Carefully considered divorce ceremonies – either just for close family and friends, or larger gatherings – can ease the transition after a marriage break down and are becoming increasingly popular in the US. As a family Celebrant, I have not yet been asked to officiate at such a ceremony, so I can only imagine how helpful it might be, especially if the couple is still on reasonably amicable terms.