If logistically possible, an in-person meeting will be arranged to discuss your ceremony.  If not, I am always available via telephone and email. As we get to know one another, I will learn precisely how you wish to share and celebrate your marriage. I have an extensive library of customary ceremonies. The parts of these ceremonies can be mixed and matched or if you like, you may add your own selected readings and/or vows you have written.  I will make suggestions, offer options and guide you step-by-step through the creation of your ceremony. Ultimately, the final result will be a unique and graceful representation of your relationship and your marriage.

Rehearsal

While open to your suggestions, at the same time I will give you clear advice on the flow of the ceremony. Every aspect of the ceremony will be thoroughly explained and everyone will learn and practice their roles. The rehearsal will be a satisfying experience that will allow each participant to come away confident in their role and comfortable with their responsibility.

Actual Ceremony

On the day of the wedding, I usually arrive a half hour before the ceremony to meet once again with your readers, father of the bride, best man and any others who need last minute reminders of their cues.

Your ceremony can incorporate any number of rituals or themes:

For couples wishing to celebrate their cultural heritage with or without religious context

You can celebrate your cultural backgrounds by incorporating rituals, blessings, prayers or readers reflective of your heritage. These can be adapted in a universal context for interfaith, intercultural, and/or interracial marriages so that no one is excluded or offended.

 

Spiritual ceremony without religious dogma

The ceremony has all of the elements of a spiritual ceremony, we speak of God, there are blessing and prayers but we leave out the dogma using rituals and symbolism in a universal context speaking to all hearts. The core of the ceremony is about yourselves, love, relationship and family.

 

Humanist ceremonies

Some couples want a humanist ceremony (without mentioning God). Some want a themed event. I'm more than happy to officiate any sort of affair.

 

Wiccan and Alternative Ceremonies

I am very happy to work with clients of alternative belief systems. Talk to me about your special wishes.

 

For second and third marriages involving children

We honor and embrace life's complexities and richnes. There are wonderful ways to include and honor your children, bringing togetherness and healing.

 

Commitment Ceremonies

 

Vow Renewals and Anniversaries

 

Examples of other options

Unity candles and candlelighting

Candles in memoriam

Special readings

Special music

Wine exchange or communion

Presentation of flowers

Rose ceremony

Sand or salt ceremony

Lovers knot

Breaking glass

Handfasting

Jumping the broom

And more...

Remembrances

When the ceremony is over,  I will ask your witnesses to sign all copies of the marriage license. I will ensure that an official copy is either mailed or hand-delivered to the county records department and that your personal copy is delivered into responsible hands. You will also receive a copy of your wedding ceremony script on designer paper.