Q. Describe the most common types of jobs you do for your clients.
A. Weddings. Elopements. Vow Renewals. Commitment Ceremonies. (in that order) I also find myself being:
The coordinator
The Photographer
The person all the children gravitate to.
The answer person.
And much more.
Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A. Do your research. Read reviews. Go with experience.
Q. What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?
A. "We would rather not have a religious ceremony, is that ok?"
Of course! There are many reasons that couples request this. Perhaps their families come from different religious backgrounds, or their guests are all of mixed faiths. Whatever the reason, there are many beautiful and meaningful ceremonies that celebrate love and marriage without any religious reference.
Q. Do you have a favorite story from your work?
A. Yes, the couple that I married 3 times!
(ok, the first was the official one) I performed a private ceremony for them with only 2 witnesses on the anniversary of their first date.
The second was the wedding day ceremony in front of their friends, family and children. A beautiful ceremony that included a hand fasting ceremony and fa family Unity Sand ceremony with the children.
The third, was another private ceremony with just the couple, the complete the hand fasting tradition of "A year and a Day" after the handfasting. My assistant and I provided incredible photography also to all 3 ceremonies with DVD slideshows with music, printed coffee table books and CD's with all of the images.
Q. What do you wish customers knew about you or your profession?
A. I wish they understood that the officiant needs to be booked as soon as is possible. Usually 6-9 months at least, to guarantee your wedding date is available. Many couples think it's a last minute thing but then learn that none of the officiants are available for their date.
Q. Do you do any sort of continuing education to stay up on the latest developments in your field?
A. I formed a wedding network so that wedding professionals in all services can meet, refer, learn, share and improve their services with the help of others. It's called NW Wed Pro. I also produce a Bridal Fair for the group twice a year. www.NwBridalFair.com
Knowing the other vendors at weddings and being familiar with the venues is important. It can make the entire wedding go smoothly.