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Marriage License & Certificate
Officiant
Great Planner

About

On WeddingWire since 2013

Gerald Fierst is in the Knot’s Wedding Hall of Fame, honored for his remarkable ceremonies, customized to the stories, traditions and needs of wedding couples throughout the NYC metro area. Celebrating the dreams, hopes, and love of the diversity of couples with whom he works – Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Persian, South Asian, Chinese, Gay or Straight – he creates a unique moment of magic when two become one. Review after review tells the same story- “Wow. We couldn’t ask for anything more.” He is one of America’s first Civil Celebrants, certified by both the International College of Celebrancy, Melbourne. Australia and the Celebrant Institute, Montclair, NJ. His book The Heart of the Wedding has been acclaimed as a “celebration of our families and ourselves with care, precision, and artistry.” As an actor and storyteller, he has won Parents Choice Awards for his recordings and been featured throughout the world at theaters, festivals, museums, and schools. Cherish the vision you have for your ceremony and let Gerald Fierst bring your stories and traditions to life in a moment that is reflective of the future you imagine together. This seasoned celebrant has the skill to make your “I do” a moment your guests will recall for years and you and your families will cherish for the rest of your lives.


Services Offered
The Heart of the Wedding presides over nuptials and civil services of all religions and traditions, including Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Chinese, and South Asian. He will work with you and your partner to craft an exchange of vows that reflects your backgrounds, values, and the future you’ve imagined together. He is a proud officiant for the LGBTQ community and has conducted same-sex ceremonies everywhere from Greenwich Village to Williamsburg art galleries. This minister is licensed to perform weddings in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, DC.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical price for your wedding services?

$752

Which of the following are included in the price?

Ceremony Rehearsal

What is the starting price for your wedding services?

$359

Does starting price include the ceremony rehearsal?

No

What is the starting price for ceremony rehearsals?

$151

What types of weddings and events do you provide services for?

Non-religious
Interfaith
Ceremony Rehearsal
Vow Renewal
Civil Union

What religious affiliations do you serve?

Agnostic
Buddhist
Hindu
Islam
Jewish
No Denomination
Taoist

On average, how long are wedding ceremonies you officiate?

Less than 30 mins.

In which states are you licensed?

CT
DC
MA
NJ
NY
PA
WA

What languages do you speak?

English
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Any other questions?

Reviews of The Heart of the Wedding

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5.0 out of 5 rating
5.0 out of 5 rating
141 Reviews
100% recommend it
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    5 out of 5 rating
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    5 out of 5 rating
  • Value
    5 out of 5 rating
  • Flexibility
    5 out of 5 rating
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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Gerald Fierst receives glowing reviews as an officiant for weddings, praised for his ability to incorporate diverse traditions, professionalism, warmth, and creativity in crafting personalized ceremonies. Reviewers commend his knowledge of customs, storytelling skills, and ability to engage the audience. Gerald\'s presence and expertise are highlighted as integral to making weddings unforgettable, with guests and couples alike raving about the ceremonies he conducts. Many appreciate his personal approach to ceremony planning, making the process stress-free and enjoyable. Highly recommended for couples seeking a memorable and meaningful wedding experience.

Review summary

Powered by AI
This AI-generated summary gives you a snapshot of the overall ratings and feedback from the reviews this vendor has received.

Gerald Fierst receives glowing reviews as an officiant for weddings, praised for his ability to incorporate diverse traditions, professionalism, warmth, and creativity in crafting personalized ceremonies. Reviewers commend his knowledge of customs, storytelling skills, and ability to engage the audience. Gerald\'s presence and expertise are highlighted as integral to making weddings unforgettable, with guests and couples alike raving about the ceremonies he conducts. Many appreciate his personal approach to ceremony planning, making the process stress-free and enjoyable. Highly recommended for couples seeking a memorable and meaningful wedding experience.

Reagan
Reagan M. Sent on 05/08/2024
5 out of 5 rating

BEST officiant!!

To say Gerry was an incredible officiant is an understatement. Choosing him to officiate our wedding was one of the best decisions we made when planning our wedding. From our first conversation, Gerry made us feel comfortable and walked us through the ceremony planning process. He got to know us, listened to our wants and needs and prepared a beautiful ceremony that our friends and family and still raving about. Gerry is a true professional and is a great communicator. Highly recommend him!
I
Irem Sent on 09/18/2024
5 out of 5 rating

very responsive and helpful

Gerald was very responsive and helpful in creating a unique ceremony for us. I am Turkish, and I wanted to include my traditions in the ceremony, which he did a great job with. He even used a couple of Turkish phrases during the ceremony. I definitely recommend him!
S
Sydney S. Sent on 08/11/2024
5 out of 5 rating

A Truly Memorable Ceremony!

We couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful officiant than Gerald Fierst. From our initial meetings to the final vows, Gerald was exceptional. He brought a perfect blend of warmth, professionalism, and insight as we collaborated on creating a ceremony that beautifully honored both our Jewish and Catholic traditions.

Our dinner in New York City with Gerald was a delightful experience, and it only deepened our appreciation for his genuine approach and thoughtful guidance. He made the process enjoyable and stress-free, and his personalized touch made our ceremony truly special.

Thank you, Gerry, for making our wedding day unforgettable. Your presence and expertise were a cherished part of our celebration!
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Awards

141
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2022 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2021 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2020 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2019 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2018 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2017 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2016 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2015 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2014 Winner

Team

Gerald Fierst
Gerald Fierst
Owner

Professional Network & Endorsements

1 Endorsement
Bridal Music Bridal Music Wedding Musicians

Dear Brides to Be, Our Flute and Violin Wedding Duo had the honor of working with Gerald of "The Heart of the Wedding" at a stunning Outdoor Wedding Ceremony, taking place at The Molly Pitcher Inn, Red Bank, NJ. Gerald's presentation is elegantly polished and outstandingly professional. He expertly, and magically, kept a very nervous Bride and Groom, calm and collected, throughout their Ceremony! Bravo, Gerald! Sincerely, Flutist/Artistic Director Michele, Bridal Music

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