Is a wedding by a celebrant legally recognized?

Yes, I am an ordained, nondenominational minister of the Universal Life Church Monastery and have met the requirements of all 50 states through my ordination. I do not preach beliefs from any specific religion. I use my ministry as a vehicle to perform weddings. 

Can you perform civil unions and same sex weddings?

Yes! Performing a wedding is my honor for any loving couple. The process is the same for all of my weddings.

Can we write our own vows?

Absolutely! In fact, I encourage it as your own words enhance the specialty of the ceremony.

How can we personalize our ceremony?

Of course! Remember it’s “All about You”! This is your ceremony and almost anything goes! You can choose your own readings, vows, rituals, music, and wedding choreography. Many couples choose to incorporate traditions from their ethnic or religious backgrounds which they find meaningful and even include their guests, family or even a beloved pet if the venue allows.

How long is the ceremony?

This is your ceremony, so the length is set based on what we create.  Most venues allow for 30-minute ceremonies with a typical ceremony lasting 20-25 minutes. However, a meaningful ceremony can be as short as 10-15 minutes. Ultimately, the length of the ceremony is of secondary importance to its substance which we create based on your vision.

How far in advance should we book our Celebrant?

It is best to book six months to a year in advance to assure that your date and time are available.

Should we have a rehearsal prior to the day of the ceremony?

This really depends on the complexity of the ceremony you desire and is totally optional. For example, if multiple rituals, readings & participants are involved, or if you just feel more comfortable with a practice run, I do suggest a rehearsal prior to your wedding date. If this is not practical or you don’t feel the need, I will facilitate an informal run through with the bridal party, minus the bride, just prior to the guests arriving. I find that this is often a good idea so that everyone feels comfortably with their responsibilities. Finally, if you have a wedding planner who will be onsite, I’ll work closely with she/he to coordinate the run through.

What will you wear to perform the ceremony?

I dress in clothes appropriate to the feeling and theme of your ceremony. Typically, I wear black suit with or without my ecclesiastic robe and adornments. This places the focus appropriately on the two of you. If you have a special request for me to wear, this can be discussed in our planning.

Should we invite our Celebrant to the reception?

While I love a good party, and I know yours will be, it isn’t necessary to invite me to your reception or rehearsal dinner. It would be honored if you choose to invite me, but I will usually decline the invitation. However, depending on the timing, I often accept an invitation to a cocktail hour which gives me a chance to personally congratulate you and meet your family and friends.

How far will you travel?

In general, any location that is within an hour commute is included in my fees. If your ceremony location requires a lengthier commute or overnight stay, there is an additional fee. 

Is there a contract that we must sign?

Yes. After we meet and you decide to book me for your wedding, there is a simple one-page contract that we’ll complete. The contract specifies your commitment to engage me as your officiant, the date, time and location of your wedding ceremony, my fee structure, and your payment obligation. Upon signature and with receipt of your 50% deposit, your date is secured, and our planning officially begins.

What about the marriage license?

You are responsible for obtaining the marriage license in accordance with the laws of your State, County or Municipality. In Pennsylvania, marriage licenses are valid for 60 days.  However for planning purposes, keep in mind, that there is a mandatory 3 day waiting period before the ceremony can be legally performed. It’s best to check with your county clerk’s office for instructions on obtaining the license.  Immediately after performing the ceremony, I will sign the marriage/wedding license and return it to the appropriate government body within the required deadline for the finalization of the recording of the marriage. Finally, if you are simply renewing your vows, no signature of the marriage license is necessary.