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About
Illuminating Ceremonies is my company name: I am a professional wedding officiant based in New York City. I'd like to be the most accessible vendor for you to work with. For every wedding I'm lucky enough to officiate, I create more personal, enjoyable, funny, meaningful, and celebratory ceremonies than most guests have ever seen.
I'm a Certified Life-Cycle Celebrant. I can legalize marriages all around the country. I'm the author of Best. Ceremony. Ever (The Countryman Press/WW Norton). I'm a member of the NY chapter of the National Speakers Association. I have spoken at industry conferences, including Wedding MBA in Las Vegas, WedProCon in Cincinnati, and Midwest DJs Live in Milwaukee.
For four years in a row, I appeared on 'The Rachael Ray Show' on Valentine's Day, officiating ceremonies in front of a massive national audience. In April 2014, I appeared on Joan Rivers' reality show, Joan Knows Best, attending a memorial service for her dog Max. Not many people can say that and have it be true.
Please note: if you reach out to me (and I am asking this on behalf of ALL wedding vendors), PLEASE let me know where and at what time your wedding will take place; thank you!!!
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Frequently asked questions
What is the typical price for your wedding services?
$900
What is the starting price for your wedding services?
$800
Does starting price include the ceremony rehearsal?
No
What is the starting price for ceremony rehearsals?
$200
What is the starting price for pre-marital counseling (per session)?
$500
What types of weddings and events do you provide services for?
Non-religious
Interfaith
Ceremony Rehearsal
Vow Renewal
Civil Union
What services do you provide?
Premarital Counseling
What religious affiliations do you serve?
Agnostic
Buddhist
Catholic
No Denomination
Pagan
Taoist
On average, how long are wedding ceremonies you officiate?
Less than 30 mins.
In which states are you licensed?
AZ
CO
DC
KY
NJ
NY
OH
What languages do you speak?
French
Any other questions?
Message vendorReviews of Illuminating Ceremonies/Christopher Shelley
5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0 out of 5 rating
106 Reviews
100% recommend it
This AI-generated summary gives you a snapshot of the overall ratings and feedback from the reviews this vendor has received.
Review summary
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Chris is highly recommended by multiple couples as a wedding officiant. He is praised for his creativity, humor, and ability to personalize ceremonies. His communication and organization skills are commended, and guests consistently mention how memorable and enjoyable the ceremonies were. Chris is described as warm, friendly, and professional, and many couples express gratitude for his contribution to their special day.
Dean C. Sent on 05/12/2024
5 out of 5 rating
Choose a Magical Ceremony, Choose Chris
Selecting Chris as our wedding officiant was one of the most significant decisions we made for our special day. From the moment we completed his insightful questionnaire, we knew we were in exceptional hands. Chris took the time to understand our unique love story, weaving it into a ceremony that was both deeply personal and wonderfully engaging. He masterfully balanced humor with sentiment, while thoughtfully incorporating our cultural traditions. Our guests were captivated, with many asking us afterward how long Chris had known us, as he so perfectly captured the essence of our relationship. His script was beautifully written, and his delivery was simply outstanding. For a ceremony that is touching, unforgettable, and truly reflective of your love, Chris is the officiant who will make your wedding dreams a reality. We highly recommend Chris, it will be one of the best decisions you make for your wedding day!
Elina Sent on 02/21/2024
5 out of 5 rating
Amazing officiant and speaker
Chris officiated our 1/20/24 wedding. He did a fantastic job, people laughed, people cried, and everyone asked about him afterwards. He came highly recommended on just about every website we found him on, and for good reason! His process is great, he's asks the right questions and wants feedback along the way. He wanted to make sure our ceremony had the vibe we wanted. He was punctual and was flexible with the plan, making sure everyone knew what they were doing. Would highly recommend his services.
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Professional Network & Endorsements
8 Endorsements
Christopher is an excellent officiant! He brings his charming, joyful personality to his work and it's evident he gives 100% to every client. There is no such thing as a boring or dry wedding when Christopher is the Officiant!
Christopher is a suburb choice as an officiant for your wedding. I guarantee that you will have a unique and fun wedding ceremony with his creative and lively touch.
Christopher really is illuminating! He is by far the funniest person I know and there won't be a face in the crowd without a smile on their face when Chris performs a ceremony. He is charming, polite and the best listener I know. He will deliver a ceremony that would surely put a smile on even "Aunty Betty that disapproves of this union" face.... Highly recommend.
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