Creating a Beautiful Symbolic Ceremony at The Hackney

How to design a deeply personal, unforgettable moment in one of East London’s most atmospheric spaces.

There is a moment in every wedding when everything becomes still. A soft breath, a shift in the light, a quiet rise of emotion as two people step forward together. Although the ceremony is often the shortest part of the day, it becomes the emotional heart of the celebration.

At The Hackney, we do not host legal ceremonies. Most couples complete the legal vows at a nearby registry office before coming to us for their symbolic ceremony. And time after time, couples tell us this symbolic moment is the one they remember most. It feels intimate, sincere and entirely their own.

Here is our guide to creating a ceremony at The Hackney that feels modern, meaningful and beautifully atmospheric.

Your Ceremony, Your Way

A symbolic ceremony gives you complete freedom. Without legal constraints, you can design a moment that reflects who you are as a couple.

Many of our weddings include:

• personal vows written in your own words
• a favourite reading from a friend
• a modern celebrant-led format
• cultural elements woven in with ease
• music that tells your story
• simple rituals that hold meaning

There is no script, no right or wrong. The beauty lies in shaping a ceremony that feels authentic to you.

Let the Space Set the Tone

The Hackney has a natural warmth that enhances ceremonies without needing heavy styling. The soft brick, timber, textures and ambient light create a sense of intimacy before anything is added.

Thoughtful, minimal details are often the most impactful.

Aisle Styling

Candles, bud vases or a textured runner can create a quiet sense of arrival without overwhelming the space.

Floral Framing

Rather than a traditional arch, many couples lean toward asymmetrical floral arrangements or low sculptural pieces that frame the moment with modern elegance.

Lighting

Candlelight and warm bulbs add depth and softness. Even daytime ceremonies develop a cinematic glow inside the venue.

The key is to enhance the existing character, not compete with it.

Choosing a Celebrant Who Understands You

A great celebrant brings the ceremony to life. Their presence shapes the rhythm, tone and emotional landscape of the moment.

The best celebrants:

• speak with warmth and clarity
• hold space with confidence
• craft ceremonies that feel personal
• balance structure with emotion
• guide you gently through each step

With the right celebrant, the ceremony feels effortlessly natural.

👉 Meet Our Recommended Celebrants

Music That Brings the Moment Alive

Music defines the emotional arc of a ceremony. It sets the atmosphere as guests settle, lifts the moment as you walk in and carries the joy as you walk out.

Consider:

• an acoustic musician for intimacy
• a meaningful track for your entrance
• calm ambience during readings
• an uplifting recessional to transition into celebrations

Sound is one of the strongest emotional anchors you can use.

A Moment Guests Will Remember

Symbolic ceremonies at The Hackney often feel more personal and memorable than legal ones. Without constraints, the moment becomes a true reflection of your relationship.

Couples regularly tell us:

“It felt like us.”
“It was our favourite part of the day.”
“The atmosphere in the room was incredible.”

With considered styling, a great celebrant and the warmth of the space, your ceremony becomes a moment that stays with you long after the day ends.

Explore Ceremony Styling Inspiration

We have curated a collection of images to help you imagine your ceremony — from floral structures to lighting, layout and atmospheric details.

👉 Explore Ceremony Inspiration

This board beautifully supports everything you’ve just read and helps couples see what is possible inside the venue.