Weddings ~ Handfastings ~ Civil Unions ~ Non-Denomination ~ Same Sex Unions
Wedding FAQS
How far out do you book? The earlier the better! Weekend dates/times (Fri/Sat/Sun) are often most popular and go first. Thursday evening is also becoming trendy as weekday weddings are often a viable option for a couple. May and June are very busy months for weddings with June being the busiest month. To check availability, please email me.
How do we set up a meeting with you? I often meet with a couple for coffee/tea and conversation so we can get to know each other and go over what I offer for your ceremony.
To meet with me, please fill out the contact form and I will contact you within 48 hours during the business week. Click here for contact form.
Once we book with you, what happens next? I request a 50% non-refundable deposit to book your event day/time. I'd like to get your wedding rehearsal date/time on my calendar as early as possible, too.
From there, our process of working together begins and I spend as much time as necessary crafting and writing your ceremony. A draft copy will be forwarded to you for approval about 30 days before the ceremony. And, of course, I am available for questions or advice via phone between the hours of 9am and 6pm, or you can email anytime.
How are payments made? Once we agree to work together, I request a signed agreement so the terms of our relationship are clear and you are fully comfortable working with me. A deposit is also required at this time, payable by check or cash. The balance must be paid no less than 30 days prior to your ceremony or you risk forfeiture of your saved time and date plus any funds already on deposit.
How long does a wedding ceremony take? Most often, the length of my ceremonies range from 10 - 60 minutes and this includes the entrance/processional, ceremony and recessional.
It all just depends on what you want to be included in your ceremony. If you want an elaborate ceremony it could take up to an hour. It all depends on you.
And just as an FYI, rehearsals often take more time than the actual ceremony!
What do I do at rehearsals? Well, we have a little fun. What I find at a rehearsal is that people aren't always listening or they are nervous, so humor and horsing around is to be expected. At rehearsal, I meet your family and friends so they will also feel at ease with me. I stage your ceremony, organize all elements of your processional/recessional and most importantly, get everyone comfortable with the "action parts." We don't run through the words but keep them sacred for the actual ceremony day.
How long do rehearsals last? Rehearsals almost always start late so try to get your people there for a prompt arrival. I tell a couple to block out a full hour for a rehearsal and it may take less time than this or sometimes more. I will charge $25 per hour after the first hour so make sure that everyone is there at the appointed time.
Have refreshments ready at the rehearsal. It could be just a snack table, a rehearsal dinner or luncheon.
On the ceremony day, what time will you arrive and leave? Depending on the couple and their ceremony, I will arrive between 30-60 minutes before the start time of your ceremony. I also enjoy staying afterwards a bit for pictures and conversation. If the ceremony is extremely elaborate I will arrive 2 – 4 hours ahead of time depending on the nature of the ceremony.
Can we write our own vows? Absolutely! Your ceremony should say all of the right things, the way you want them said, period! When the words of your ceremony personally express and capture the special love you have for each other, the ceremony becomes a powerful statement of your new life together. I provide a full draft of your wedding ceremony 30 or more days before the ceremony for your approval. I will suggest and advise, however, all final decisions are ultimately up to the couple.
Do you have a back-up? Yes, I have two other ordained ministers who would be willing to take my place if the need should arise.
Can children and other family members take part in our ceremony? Yes. I have done a marriage ceremony where the couple blended children from previous marriages on both sides. They all came forward to light a family unity candle at the appointed time.
Marriage License Information? You are responsible for obtaining your marriage license. Check with the county clerks office in the county where you live. You will need 2 witnesses 18 or older at your wedding to sign the license along with myself. The signing witnesses are usually the Maid of Honor and the Best Man, but not if they are under 18 years of age.
When do we sign the marriage license/documents? I recommend signing your legal documents at rehearsal (if possible) so you don't have to worry about it on your big day. I will then sign your legal documents once your ceremony is complete. You may want to have a formal signing after your ceremony or during your celebration and we'll discuss options and what works best for you. Finally, it is my job to see that signed marriage license gets immediately returned for processing to the Clerks Office.
What name do I use when I sign the marriage documents? Sign the same name that is on your marriage license. You may begin using your new name after this!
Looking elegant! What do you wear for a ceremony? I will always dress appropriately for a ceremony. I've worn everything from a simple sleeveless top and skirt to a ritual dress. It all depends on what makes you comfortable.
What about traveling outside of the Spooner area? Yes, I've been many places outside of Spooner, and from the back yard to the rocky glade by a river to a beautiful garden by a lake. It's your wedding and I will do my best to accommodate your wishes, traditional or unique.