Peterborough couple forced to postpone wedding due to coronavirus hold virtual ceremony on Zoom

Online video website Zoom has gained national attention after becoming widely used by home workers during the crisis, and it proved equally valuable for Hazel Cottrell and Daniel Andrews who were able to hold an online 'commitment ceremony' which their families and friends could join in.

The couple from Meadenvale in Parnwell were meant to be celebrating their nuptials on Saturday but have now postponed their wedding until next year.

Rebecca from White Rose Ceremonies is the celebrant for the wedding, and Hazel said: "She knew we were gutted about postponing our special day that we had been planning for over two and a half years. She suggested a commitment ceremony via Zoom so all our family could join us. This took place at 2pm on our special day.

"We had our camera turned off at 2pm so everyone could 'arrive' then the celebrant welcomed us. It was really emotional watching all our friends and family sat watching the screen, but an overwhelming good feeling. They were all there to help us celebrate and make our day special.

"Dan and I made promises to each other for the next year, we then kissed to seal the promises and all our friends and family whooped, cheered and clapped. We then drank from the same cup as part of the promises - this is a Scottish tradition but was a really beautiful addition to the ceremony, suggested by our celebrant.

"At the end of the ceremony our virtual guests took turns to say kind words, good wishes and toast to the next year. It was a really beautiful day and marked our special day perfectly."