You have something in mind when you ask me for a short and sweet ceremony Often a couple will tell me in their first email they want a simple, short and sweet ceremony. I used to make assumptions about what that meant.  Short translated to about 5 minutes long and sweet meant romantic. Short and sweet is relative  But if the couple was from a Catholic background, short meant about 30 – 45 minutes because they’re used to long masses with kneeling and standing and singing and responsive readings, etc. A Catholic mass takes time to get through. Likewise, a… Read More »

Meaning within Your Wedding Rings and Vows Here’s the scene: It’s your turn. As your officiant I have your wedding rings in my hand. I have asked both of you to turn towards one another. “Take each other’s hands, look into one another’s eyes, and please repeat after me.” You see his eyes, or feel the softness of her hands. Then you utter these little phrases, 5 or 6 words at a times, sometimes sputtered, “I promise to…” And there it is. Good times and bad. Richer or poorer. Together or apart. Sickness and in health. Short. Sweet. Succinct. Forever. Whether conscious… Read More »

It’s 2026. I wrote this post in 2015!  Today brides have to consider in a new way whether to change their last name ise too much of a hassle due to the SAVE Act being considered by the Senate (already passed the House). This is what this bill asks of women who are considering sticking with tradition: Married women and other Americans who have changed their names, will be required to secure updated documentation to register to vote. Passport. Birth Certificate. I encourage couples to research what the Republicans are asking of you. Here is a link from the League… Read More »

Professional or Friendiant? Before you read this blog, listen to what 2019 couple Jessica and Brian have to say about why they hired me because I am a professional officiant.  43% of couples who, for several reasons I’ll discuss below, ask their friend or a relative to officiate for them on their wedding day. Getting “ordained” in order to comply with the laws of the land only costs a small amount. Some organizations ordain anyone for free. The internet offers an easy path to ordination so your marriage is legal. Seems simple enough. After all, Liz Lemon got ordained on… Read More »