FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Happy Customers, Happy Me
I not only plan events for my clients, but form long-lasting, professional relationships with them. Each of my customers is unique and special, and that’s why I make sure their events will be just as special as they are. Check out the reviews I’ve been getting over the years from my satisfied clientele — I really couldn’t have done it without them.
1. Why might we choose a non-denominational officiant?
As an officiant, I specialize in custom, one-of-a-kind ceremonies that reflect you and the most important parts of your personality and life. Many couples who are not formally connected with a religious institution and aren't interested in having a simple civil ceremony and don't know where to turn- this is where I can be helpful. I work with couples who wish to draw upon their faith tradition in interesting and symbolic ways. I provide a valuable option when the bride and groom come from different faith traditions, and serve the ever-growing number of couples who consider themselves "spiritual, but not religious". And finally, I respect couples who want to have an entirely secular- but customized and special- ceremony.
2. What is the process like?
After you have contracted with me, I work with you on all components of the ceremony, helping you review vows or assisting you as you develop your own. I will work with you to find ways, large and small, that reflect you in the ceremony. This includes reviewing readings, discussing rituals and wedding customs from all faiths and cultures, considering the participation of your friends and loved ones in the event and much more. My hope is that you find this a creative process that gets you excited about the wedding.
3. How far in advance should we book our wedding?
Like securing the venue you desire, working with an officiant of your choice, requires advanced planning. I make arangements to perform ceremonies a year or more from the wedding date. However, many couples select officiants three to six months before the event. I am happy to speak with couples at any point before their wedding and have officiated ceremonies with short turn around times. I want to serve all of the couples that I can, but having an appropriate amount of time to work together ensures that I can provide the highest quality service possible.
4. Do you perform ceremonies only in Vermont?
I perform many ceremonies well beyond my home. I am prepared to officiate in other New England states and neighboring New York.
5. Do you work with couples who are eloping?
Yes, Vermont has become a popular location for destination weddings. Likewise, there are many couples who wish to marry without fanfare and detailed planning. I am pleased to accomodate your wishes and assist you in preparing for your planned elopement or last minute ceremony.
6. Do you officiate other events (vow renewals, etc)?
I am delighted to speak with you about a meaningful vow renewal or commitment ceremony. These ceremonies are the same as traditional wedding ceremonies.
7. Do you do any Wedding Planning?
I am a wedding ceremony facilitator and, as such, work with many qualified professionals in the field. I am happy to assist with certain ceremony planning apsects, particularly, for people who are planning destination weddings. I am pleased to assist with a variety of tasks and have a preferred vendor list which will accompany my materials.
8. Do you have a contract?
I have a short contract that I ask my couples to sign. It is straighforward and primarily outlines my responsibilities to you with respect to ceremony preparation and execution.
9. What is your fee?
After speaking with you in our preliminary conversation, I will be able to determine my fee. I request half of payment be paid with the contract. The remainder of the fee is due the day of the ceremony.
10. Do you have a back up plan in case something happens on the day of our event?
If for some reason there is an emergency I have a list of people I can contact to cover for me.
