Spiritual Orkney

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Testimonials & Gallery

We (Mark and Helen) would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who has been so kind to provide us with permissions to use their photographs on this web-site or provide us with a testimonial; it is so appreciated xxx

If you (kindly, thank you) agree to give us permission to use your testimonial, name, details, or image / photograph on our web-sites or on social media, then you have the right to ask us to stop using it or to correct or amend it. If you ask us to, we will make these changes within 48 hours of being asked and of receiving and understanding your request. If you ask us to arrange for a notice of your ceremony to be published elsewhere, for example a local newspaper, you understand that we have no control over that publication or web-site other than to ensure that the information we provide to them is correct.

Testimonials - Ceremonies

'We want to thank you both again for a magical and most perfect wedding day! Our ceremony was beautiful, the ritual was powerful, the weather was perfectly aligned! You both have been incredible in all the services you offer. We are happy with how well everything was planned and deeply appreciate the considerate attention to detail for our ceremony. It was amazing to see such great knowledge, the thoughtful time to research and incorporate all our beliefs with such grand respect!

We are beyond pleased with our wedding photos, Mark has done an excellent job with capturing the most perfect moments! The scenery looks amazing and we are thrilled to see our wedding photos!

Thanks again for creating such a wonderful day for us as newlyweds, as well as our guests who thought the ceremony was beautiful!'

Mrs and Mrs Haig, Scotland, UK

'Helen and Mark at Spiritual Orkney were amazing. We planned our wedding with them and it was an amazing experience. Communications throughout were excellent, the effort they put into the ceremony was attentive and genuine. They arranged all the permissions at the site, the bagpiper, and we had a rehearsal to settle any nerves and get familiar with the environment beforehand. The besom, handfasting cords and broom were beautifully made, and they even went to the effort of making laminated cards for us so we wouldn't forget our vows. We could also pick our altar cloth. The spirits of the place were honoured, and it really was an amazingly powerful and conscious, ceremony. Mark and Helen performed the ceremony and opening and closing rites, brilliantly. We can't thank them enough for their efforts pre and post wedding, all the planning, right through to dropping off our photos. Gay friendly, truly Pagan, celebrants. We would highly recommend using them if you want a beautiful, genuine and powerful ceremony, with truly decent people as your celebrants.'

Jacqui and Andie, UK

'It was just the most magical time. We have nothing but good things to say ... we both left a piece of our hearts in Orkney and plan to come back again next summer.'

Kate and Len Vincent, UK

'When we decided to get married in Orkney, having got engaged on the beach at Whitemill Bay on the island of Sanday, we dreamt about getting married at the Ring of Brodgar. Helen and Mark made that dream come true. The ceremony was everything we had wished and hoped for, thanks to Mark and Helen. Everything with the words and actions were perfect. Mark and Helen drafted the original ceremony and we adapted it gradually with their help until we reached the ideal final draft. Clear communication throughout the process and wonderful photography.'

Robert and Victoria Knight, UK

'I just wanted to say thank you both, on behalf of my husband and me (love saying that!) for creating a beyond magical Handfasting ceremony for us. I always knew it would be amazing, but that seems a colossal understatement when describing the ritual now. I truly felt the spirits of place and all the elemental spirits were present and blessing our union, it was utter perfection. We both remarked on the placement of the sun above and between you both and shining down on us and the Comet Stone as the ceremony unfolded, I'm at a loss to describe the power of it! It was lovely to finally meet you both, Helen it felt like meeting an old friend! Much love to you both, and thank you again for everything, we are truly blessed to have had such a strong, spiritual couple formally bring us together. We will certainly be returning to Orkney in the future. All blessings.'

Mrs and Mr McCorquodale, UK

'Blessings Helen and Mark, thank you again for a beautiful spiritual ceremony, from my friends opening the circle as the elements, bringing and using my own sword, blessings of the rings, to the inclusion of my sacred ogam trees tattooed on my waist, so personal to myself, and many thanks again for arranging for us to walk around the stones.'

Rachel and Michael, Portsmouth, UK

'Our 10-year vow renewal ceremony at the Ring of Brodgar was the highlight of our trip to Orkney. It was all we could have dreamed of ... and more. From the early planning to the special day in June 2018, the lovely and thoughtful Helen stayed in touch and helped us to fine-tune our celebration and ensure that it was customized just for us. Together, we integrated a variety of Celtic traditions, readings and personalized vows, and it all came together perfectly. Set at a lovingly prepared altar at a magnificent sacred site … what more can I say? Helen and Mark were amazing, warm and wonderful. We opted for a couple of fantastic additions, such as a talented piper, Ian, and some professional photos by Mark. We are so excited to share our pictures and experiences with our friends at home and everyone is in awe! We will never forget our wonderful magical morning at the Comet Stone. Thank you, Helen and Mark, from the bottom of our hearts.'

Brian and Brenda, Welland, Canada

'We have been on a hectic schedule trying to fit in as many things that we love about Scotland and pass them on to our grandchildren. They need to feel their place in the history of our family and in the spirit of the world where their ancestors lived, worshipped and died. We would be remiss if we didn't take a moment to thank the two of you for a deeply moving experience in a mystical and unique space. We needed to say things aloud to a caring community and you provided that safe space. We truly feel a difference in our relationship. Our two teenaged grandsons could have been jaundiced and dismissive, but they too were stunned by the ceremony, the setting and the solemnity of occasion. Thank you for working to include them; it meant a lot to us and, as importantly, to them. Our son and daughter-in-law were enthusiastic participants and were deeply responsive to the spiritual aura created. Thank you for the extra time and effort. The memory and the artifacts you created will be treasured and guarded. If your payment is measured by tears, you received full compensation from each of us there. Thank you.'

Ed and Sandy, USA (50th wedding anniversary blessing as part of a family holiday)

'We can't thank you enough for our beautiful and authentic handfasting ceremony that we will cherish and remember forever! You both did a truly perfect job with every detail, from the ceremony readings to the presentation, the site set up and lovely altar and hand-crafted handfasting cords, and the overall beauty and spirituality you brought to the whole evening. Even the gift of unexpected sunshine! Everyone felt as we did that it was a truly enchanting and powerful experience! (One of my favorite parts: creating sacred space - it was instantly felt, like a sudden hush of the wind!)'

Fred and Marti, California, USA

'We would both like to say a huge 'thank you' to Helen and Mark for the most amazing handfasting ceremony. When we had our first thoughts and ideas about having a handfasting to renew our wedding vows on our 25th anniversary, we could never have imagined how amazing and magical it would actually be to be standing there in the sacred space that is the Ring of Brodgar. The ritual was perfect in every way and included all the small details that made it personal. Suggestions were made along the way as to what to include, such as our exchanging silver pendants instead of rings. The ceremony was all we had imagined it would be and more. Helen and Mark both made us feel completely at ease, despite some last minute nerves kicking in. For anyone considering a wedding or blessing in Orkney, we cannot recommend Orkney Pagan Weddings highly enough ... nothing is too much trouble and Helen and Mark go out of their way to ensure that everything goes without a hitch.'

Hazel & Allan, UK

'It may be 'what you do', but never underestimate how well you do it and how much it means to others.'

N&J, Edinburgh, UK

'Dear Helen & Mark, Thank you so much for our beautiful wedding. It was just perfect. It meant so much to us to be in such a beautiful setting. Health & happiness to you both.'

Vicky & Paul, UK

'We write in recommendation of the wedding services provided by Helen and Mark. Together, they gave us a memorable pagan wedding in the Ring of Brodgar in August, 2015. From the outset our communications by phone and email were characterised by their promptness, professionalism and Helen and Mark's commitment to fully meet our changing needs. They showed flexibility and a strong desire to provide the ceremony that we wanted. We had a clear idea of our vows and Helen skilfully incorporated them into a ceremony comprising elements chosen by us from the many options we were offered. We had a powerful sense that Helen and Mark were more than mere celebrants. They had listened to us, they shared with us the joy and range of emotions provoked by a wonderful, deeply spiritual experience. We cannot thank them enough.'

Annie and Steve Lloyd, UK

'We have nothing but praise for Helen and Mark at Orkney Pagan Weddings. From the first contact we felt so comfortable speaking with them. There was consultation with every step of the process. We met Helen the day before our ceremony and it was as though we had known each other for years. The ceremony itself was wonderful and spiritual, much helped by the location. For a wedding or renewal of vows that is just that bit different, look no further.'

Tim & Mandy, UK

'Helen and Mark are full of integrity and heart. They supported us in creating a beautiful personal ceremony that was woven in with true magic. Jeff and I spent a long time finding the right words and elements we wanted in our marriage - Helen & Mark gave us the tradition, structure, and wisdom to bring it all together into something incredible and transformative. Our marriage day on Orkney was beautiful and it is something we return to in our hearts and minds when life brings challenges. Months later, I still draw on the inspiration from that day. I am so happy we found Orkney Pagan Weddings and I heartily recommend them!'

Catherine & Jeff

'When we decided to get married, our interests and views meant that we wanted the ceremony to be something a bit different, and thankfully a quick search found a wonderful couple named Helen and Mark! A year on we were married at The Standing Stones of Stenness on Samhain! The planning was straightforward thanks to them helping us every step of the way with advice, along with the informative website. Even a last minute change of venue was no problem! We were able to personalise the day around what we wanted. They have good relationships with all necessary parties which made things easier too. They have plenty of knowledge and advice about Orkney, from the history and archaeology, through to recommending a good Indian Restaurant! Totally professional throughout, but at the same time putting us at ease, particularly when we had the libation and meeting the day before, which rid us of any nerves and anxieties! Thank you Helen and Mark for making our special day unforgettable! xx'

Ian and Jo, Kent, UK

'Helen and Mark you gave us the most perfect wedding ceremony and we would like to thank you both. There were no time constraints (so no rush), everything was professionally done and well delivered on the day. Nothing was too much trouble. Thank you for the most beautiful wedding ceremony it was just what we hoped for.'

Gail and Piers, UK

'We cannot believe that we are celebrating our first anniversary today (on the day rather than the date) - 4 weeks married. It doesn't seem that long in some ways but it feels as if we have been married forever - but in a good way. Our wedding has changed us in very subtle ways and the happiness we have together has increased although we did not think that was possible. Thank you once again for a wonderful day and a wonderful life. Walk in beauty.'

Joan and Mike

'Thanks so much to both of you for making our day so special to us, we will never forget you both and will keep in touch always. You are a very special couple, and everyone we met on the island gave a glowing report about you and said how professional you both are and wonderful too. Hope all well with you both, you’re very much still with us, in spirit, and we cannot thank you both enough for what you did for us on our day, it will be with us forever and forever; we will come back to see you that we can promise.'

Jimmy, Chrissie, & Fiz (the dog)

'Many thanks for the wonderful ceremony & excellent guiding you provided for our short time in Orkney. Both Jane & I agree that without doubt it was the best holiday we have ever had & will truly be indebted to you & Mark.'

Paul Mannering, Kent, UK

'It was an honour to meet you and relax in your honesty and integrity. We are still in a light trance since our wedding, thanks to you two, we really feel that with your energy, words and actions you created a thing of beauty that will sit in time and space for both of us forever, you both have a gift that we know you treasure.'

Fiona & Tony

'Helen and Mark, thank you so much for all your blessings, assistance, guidance and friendly, professional conduct. The wedding was a wonderful, magical experience and you were both excellent throughout. We are delighted at how well our wedding day went. Your expert guidance leading up to our wedding day was a tremendous help to us both and the ceremony was completely perfect/magic. Mark, you did a great job and we are very thankful and appreciative of all you accomplished with the photos. From the bottom of our hearts we thank you guys enormously and wish you every continued success and happiness.'

Marnie & John Gauld, UK

'We both want to thank you so much for all your time and support in creating the perfect wedding. Being able to be so involved in the planning made it very personal for us. Also, the care you took to make it a spiritual and meaningful occasion meant a great deal to us both, and to be married in such an ancient and sacred setting was truly special. The ceremony was utterly beautiful - both we and our guests were very moved by it.'

Calum & Jane Auld, UK

'We want to thank you again for the fantastic wedding day. It was really special for us and it changed the day from a formality to something we really enjoyed. We were so glad you and Mark were able to join us afterwards too, as everyone enjoyed the opportunity to speak to you both some more. We could not have had a better day! Thank you both kindly.'

Kelly & Robert

'It was more than a spiritual occasion - it was magical!'

Mal Cape, UK

'Once again thanks for everything - I doubt if anyone ever had a more beautiful, or frankly a more perfect, wedding than we have just had.'

Jan Cape, UK

'My partner and I travelled to Orkney in early August 2012 to get married at the Ring of Brodgar. We live in Portsmouth, over 700 miles away, but wanted a ceremony that reflected us both as individuals, and us both as a couple: a ceremony that would reflect the many trials and tribulations that we have faced over our many years together. Therefore, approximately six months ago, we contacted Mark and Helen Woodsford-Dean, who operate Orkney Pagan Weddings, two individuals who then worked tirelessly in providing a wedding service that catered exactly to our every need.
As with all couples, life has often been a struggle for my partner and myself and we both felt, therefore, that it was the right time to “tie the knot” and cement our feelings for each other. As such, Helen and Mark became integral towards realising our dream, and we are both deeply grateful for their input and assurances in the planning of the event: not only did they both work in a professional and compassionate manner, their attitude towards the Orkney Islands themselves was exemplary and, although, as I am aware, they have only lived in Orkney for a number of years, they were fantastic ambassadors to a magical and welcoming community.
Moreover, what I felt particularly special in dealing with both Helen and Mark, was their utmost respect and integrity towards their practicing of Paganism. Throughout our initial email exchanges and, especially throughout the ceremony itself, they acted as exemplar representatives of the Pagan community. Indeed, we were asked by Helen whether it was okay with us if photographers from The National Geographic were present during our ceremony; something that was absolutely fine with us. However, during our discussion of this, Helen was very keen to point out the ethical implications of their inclusion, in the sense that, after the completion of their article, National Geographic would allow us to have a read through, making sure that we were fine with what is written. Therefore, as a representative of Paganism, and of The Scottish Pagan Federation as a whole, Helen and Mark have performed a wonderful job.
The ceremony as a whole was also wonderful. Helen and Mark made us non-alcoholic mead on the day, as well as making us feel settled and calm on our big day. We had an audience of tourists, archaeologists and those who were generally curious, and Helen's overall conduct was professional yet endearing. The photos that Mark took were amazing (I felt a little sorry for him, being upstaged by Geographic), and they both made a real effort to make sure everything was perfect: and we are both absolutely over-the-moon with our decision to “tie the knot” at this wonderful place. As such, we are already planning to return next year for Helen and Mark to renew our vows.'

Dr Mike Dines, UK

'Thank you so much! We had such a wonderful time and it was brilliant that Carl's Grandma could get to see it. You made our day perfect! x x x'

'My wife and I contacted Helen and Mark regarding our wedding plans, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of our lives. We had been planning a civil ceremony at the local Registry Office, but ended up taking our vows inside the Ring of Brodgar. Mark and Helen were supportive and helpful from start to finish, and the experience of taking our vows in that ancient, sacred place was incredibly powerful. The whole landscape of the Orkneys is dotted with neolithic sites and Helen and Mark were ready with surprisingly knowledgeable and helpful advice as we planned our exploration. Their care and attention to every detail far exceeded our expectations. The Orkneys are a romantic location, but also offer a profound link with the past. I unhesitatingly recommend the services of Helen and Mark, and the experience of being married in this ancient and stunningly beautiful landscape.'

Dan Thompson and Kara Reilly

'Thank you so much for such a wonderful day! The handfasting ritual was lovely. You made the day very special.'

Trena and Paul, Canada

'Just saying 'hello' from back home in Norway. We got back a few days ago after our wonderful holiday/marriage/honeymoon-trip. We had great days in Orkney and Edinburgh and really didn't want to go home at all. I hope it won't be too long until we visit Orkney again, it's such a special and beautiful place. Thank you again for making our handfasting ritual so magical and wonderful, we had such a great day and the rest of our holiday felt really magical as well!'

Hanne and Tony, Norway

'To Helen and Mark, we both just wanted to say how perfect you made everything for us, we had the most amazing day which we will never ever forget. We really cannot thank you enough, you are both such lovely people and we feel blessed to have met you and to have got married in such a spiritual and beautiful place. We both said we could not have picked anywhere in the world that would have been more perfect and we thank you so much for making our day so special. We will keep in touch and regret that we could not spend more time with you and hope to meet up with you again one day, peace and love.'

Helen and Dean, UK

'Thank you, Helen and Mark, for our wedding ceremony and all of your help and advice. You gave us exactly what we wanted. The ceremony was very simple, beautiful and intimate, it was perfect.
P.S. Loads of bonus points for the sunset, not to mention the rainbow!'

'Helen and Mark performed our legal Handfasting ceremony at the Ring of Brodgar in September 2010 and we truly can't recommend them enough. Right from the initial contact, they were so helpful in making all the arrangements. We live in Manchester and thought it might be difficult to arrange a wedding in a place we'd never even been to before but with Helen and Mark’s help, and the really helpful registrar in Orkney, it was all surprisingly easy. As we live in England, when we got engaged we were faced with the prospect of a registry office or some other building, but with us both being Pagan, this wasn't at all what we really wanted and when we found out we could have a legal ceremony in such a magical place and outdoors, it was so amazing. We met with Helen and Mark the day before and they went through everything we needed to know and really removed any worries so that we could truly enjoy the day. They had thought of so many things that we hadn't even considered which was very useful. The ceremony itself was so meaningful and performed beautifully. We are both so happy that we chose to travel to Orkney so that Helen and Mark could perform our Handfasting. Even if you don’t call yourself 'Pagan', we feel the ceremony and location make the day so much more special than a registry office wedding. Thank you so much Helen and Mark.'

Lizzy and Brian Rogers, UK

Gallery - Ceremonies

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The photograph of us (Mark & Helen), sitting at the Ring of Brodgar, on our wedding day(2009) was taken by Suzanne Lee (first image, top left) and is copyrighted to her. http://suzipics.photium.com/

Testimonials - Guiding

'A huge THANK YOU for the fabulous tour which you treated us to and which was perfect for putting things into context at the beginning of our holiday … How great that you are an outpost of spirituality for all who travel so far; we think you're doing wonderful work.'

Penny & Arthur Billington, Druidic author & artist

Other Druids have been blogging about us too:

Potia Pitchford - Musings of a Scottish Hearth Druid

'Our incredible personalised full-day tour with Helen was the peak of our entire Scotland experience. She was responsive and professional, and went out of her way to provide advanced insights and help us plan our time in Orkney. She also worked with us on the fly as new inspiration arose. She was incredibly knowledgeable about each site we visited, adding layers of storytelling, historical detail and charm to every one. We were so grateful for her insights, because though the sites were beautiful, many were not self explanatory. We'd rented a van and Helen hopped right in with our whole family and gave impeccable directions. She was very respectful, and balanced the needs well with my Catholic mother-in-law, 2-year-old daughter (it was her birthday!), and my Jewish pagan-curious self :) We saw a ton of sites, and capped it off with a gorgeous sunset at remote cliffs we never would have found on our own. We're so grateful for the sense of Orkney that's still with us months later. Very reasonable price for a long full day's work and preparation time from her. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Orkney islands.'

Amber

'We had a really wonderful day with Mark as our guide. We learned so much and really got a much deeper appreciation for the neolithic culture on all sorts of different levels - exactly what we wanted. There is something quite magical about Orkney and it is still resonating with us, even after we've left. We went back to the Stenness stones several times and each time we had a strong feeling of being on sacred ground. The hills and the stones seem to focus the energy. We get chills just thinking about it.'

Tom & Marilyn, USA

'Just thought I'd write to say "thank you" for the fabulous tours you did for all of us. Your enthusiasm and knowledge is amazing ... immense!! You definitely made the trip, it was a valuable and entertaining education. For 6 strangers and a guide to come together as one like that was a great experience. On the days we were on our own, we were able to fall back on the itinerary you had supplied us. We have literally not stopped talking about it amongst our friends and anyone that will listen!!! We will highly recommend you at every opportunity, moot and gathering. A holiday and an experience we shall never forget.'

Jim & Pat Dalton, UK

'Hi Mark, just wanted to reiterate how much we enjoyed the tour that you gave Ivy and I on Monday. Your knowledge of events, names and dates is outstanding and really helped us understand how early man fits into Orkney's history. Despite my limping along, I really enjoyed the walks, and looking over the cliffs at puffins was memorable. Thanks again, and of course also to Helen for her part in the process - we hope you have a successful touring season.'

Jeff & Ivy, USA

'Dear Helen, it is impossible to put into words my gratitude to you for such an unforgettable time. You are an excellent guide and a wonderful person. Thank you.'

Jane, USA

'Just a few lines to say "thank you" for the truly wonderful guided tour that you gave us. I'd been told about Orkney by a friend who described it as one of his best ever experiences and having just experienced it ourselves, I'd have to agree.The clarity with which you described and explained what we saw and your enthusiasm for your subject made it all the more memorable. I'll treasure the memory.
We returned to Canberra at lunchtime yesterday after a 36 hour journey from Aberdeen. And after a six week holiday which included Paris, the Rhone and Barcelona, to have Orkney at the top of my memory list speaks volumes for you. Thank you again.'

M.L. Canberra, Australia

'We so enjoyed our time with you on Orkney! We loved how you were able to bring to life some of the archeological facts and theories about the neolithic and iron age sites that you took us to. We were able to visit such a variety of places - from tombs, to dwellings that spanned 5,000 to 500 years in age, to standing stones - and all in one day. We were able to get quite a picture of how people lived in this area so many thousands of years ago, which was so enhanced by your ability to convey your research and understanding of these communities. We really enjoyed the personalised custom tour that you set up for us, and would certainly love to be able to return to Orkney for further adventures with you! I do hope to return - it is a place that lives large in my memories. Thanks again for a wonderful experience.'

RJS, USA

'Thank you for the wonderful tour, my clients were all so grateful and full of praise of both your botanical and historical knowledge and have come home telling everyone of their experience which will make it easy for us to arrange another group to come over.'

Windrose Travel, Australia

'We found Helen to be very knowledgable. She was easy to be with and was able to adjust to requirements if we wanted to do something different or for longer. Pleased we booked Helen for two days as we had such a long list of places we wanted to see. There is so much to see in Orkney.'

L&T, New Zealand

'We had a wonderful time on Orkney, never mind the weather. You told us so much more than just the touristy stuff ... Thank you again for showing us your Orkney.'

Dawna, Canada

'We sure enjoyed our experience on Orkney, the rain and wind just made it that much more memorable! You are a wonderful guide and we very much appreciate your deep understanding of the spiritual aspects of the archaeology.

Kim, USA

'Thank you so much for a wonderful day, you are a wealth of knowledge.'

David & Kathy, Australia

'I was most impressed, not just by Helen's knowledge of Orkney and her open friendliness and humour, but her willingness to go the extra mile, whatever the weather, to help us make the most of our trip.'

Paul & Ali, Midlands, UK

'Many thanks for the wonderful ceremony & excellent guiding you provided for our short time in Orkney. Both Jane & I agree that without doubt it was the best holiday we have ever had & will truly be indebted to you, Helen & Mark.'

Paul Mannering, Kent, UK

'Helen is the most excellent tour guide you will come across. We were so lucky when we visited Orkney to spend a fascinating day travelling about the most important, and most beautiful, archaeological sites. The combination of Helen's background in archaeology and her deep sensitivity to the spiritual meaning of the sites we visited, made for a truly memorable experience. I was entranced by clapping at the Stones of Stenness - you have to try it - but you have to be in a precise position to hear the effect! Helen will show you where that is. Visiting the many significant sites in Orkney is a must - and we cannot recommend Helen highly enough as your guide.'

Maria and Nigel Miller, Hampshire, UK