What is your spiritual orientation?
I was raised in the Unitarian Universalist tradition, and completed my Masters of Divinity at Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York. I then studied a course of Spiritual Direction at Fordham University, in the Bronx, and completed my training at the Celebrant USA Foundation, in Montclair, NJ. My academic background is wide, and my research varied, but I have no agenda for my couples. Your ceremony is about you; my background simply allows me to find the words, rituals and music that will express you in a way that is joyful and authentic
My aim is to delight and surprise; to act as the catalyst between you, your unique story, and your guests; to mark the joyous start of your new life together and have that joy renew the lives of the people who share your wedding day.
Can we incorporate ethnic or religious traditions into our ceremony?
Of course. It is your ceremony, and it can have many different elements such as handfastings, sand ceremonies, and unity candles, to name a few. We can honor the people, places and things that are dear to you; the individual passions that make your relationship unique.
What on earth is this going to cost!!
Breathe in, breathe out, repeat as necessary. This is a day that is so important, and the ceremony is the heart of the celebration. The ceremony should be interesting, funny, inspiring, and touching. It is, in many ways, your gift to the people who have come to support you on the new path of marriage. My fee reflects my professionalism; not only in the careful writing of your ceremony, but in the unfolding of the wedding day.
First, we will meet and talk about your history as a couple, your life together, and your ideas for the ceremony. Together we will pick readings, poetry, music that reflect your distinctive style and personality. You will receive a full script of your ceremony at least a week ahead of time, and we will edit it so it is completely comfortable for you.
On the day of your wedding, I will arrive early enough to brief your photographers, musicians, wedding planners and site staff on the details of your ceremony. They will all know exactly what to expect so that they can produce their best work. If you have friends or family that will be reading, I will work with them so they are calm and prepared. If you have flower girls or ring bearers, I’ll go over their roles along with your attendants and their parents. If you have a flower dog, I’ll bring a Milk Bone and take time to scratch behind the ears. Everyone involved on that day will feel the care you have put into orchestrating the ceremony, and they will be able to relax and enjoy their gift of participation.