Sustainable Supplier Spotlight - Helen Shearn Humanist Celebrant

We’re delighted to introduce Helen Shearn, an eco-friendly humanist celebrant who will be joining us at this year’s Eco Wedding Festival. Helen brings a beautifully conscious approach to ceremonies, blending heartfelt storytelling with a deep respect for the environment. Her bespoke, inclusive celebrations honour love in all its forms while embracing sustainable values – perfect for couples looking to make meaningful memories without compromising their eco ethos. Whether you're planning vows beneath ancient arches or a handfasting ceremony, Helen’s ceremonies are crafted with care, compassion, and a light footprint on the planet.

We caught up with Helen to find out more about her and what humanist ceremonies are all about.

Tell us a bit about your business and how it started

I had a registrar wedding 21 years ago as i thought that was the only non-religious option for us. I only found out about wedding celebrants when we decided to have a 10 year vow renewal and was looking into wedding celebrants then. I qualified 4 years ago and can honestly say that I have the best job in the world - I gave up teaching 2 years ago after 25 years in the education sector so that I can be a full time celebrant.

What makes your work eco friendly or sustainable?

I live my life (and family life) as minimalists - making our human footsteps on the world as gentle as possible. As my home is my office I recycle as much as possible and use products in the home that are as gentle as possible on the environment. I have been an avid nature lover since childhood and get involved with nature supporting activities on local and national scales. I support many charities including The World Wide Fund for Nature, Greenpeace and The Woodland Trust. At the end of every year I donate a small percentage of my profit to The Woodland trust so they can continue their work to protect ancient woodlands across the country.

What can couples expect to see from you at the Eco Wedding Festival?

I am full of energy and enthusiasm to spread the word about totally bespoke celebrant wedding so couples will see my passion from the second they meet me. My ultimate objective to to ensure that every wedding couple has all the information they need so they are in a best position to choose the right ceremony for them - whether that’s church, registrar or celebrant. I just want people to be happy. I will show them how I incorporate their personalities and love story into their special day, which may include symbolic gestures and traditions such as handfasting or drinking from the Quaich.

What are your top tips for planning a sustainable wedding?

My top tip for couples seeking a sustainable wedding is have a lst of very clear non-negotiables from their wedding venue so that their sustainable values align. One of my pet hates is meaningless and wasteful wedding favours so i am happy to advise on better gifts such as bee bombs, seed packets and charitable donations.

You can meet Helen and talk all things ceremonies at the Eco Wedding Festival on 5th October! Click the button below to secure your tickets now.