FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I will provide a quote to give you a customized price based on the scope of services and distance travelled. Elopements start at $250.00, for a weekday standard service within 10 miles of Plainfield, without customization or rehearsal. Weddings with a ceremony written specifically for the couple start at $475 for Monday through Thursday, and $595 for Friday or Saturday afternoon or evening. If there is a rehearsal on a prior day, fee varies depending on day and time. I do my best to work with the couple to make the number work for them. An additional charge for travel distance and time may apply, based on distance from my location to the venue(s). I am open to travel long distance for destination weddings, or to write the ceremony and coach someone to deliver it at the destination.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
For elopements, I'll have a few basic questions (e.g. is bride taking the grooms name, is someone "giving away" the bride, religious or secular, etc, to get the ceremony right. Then it is simply a matter of clarifying time and place, signing a simple agreement and taking care of payment in order to complete booking. When we do a custom ceremony, I want it to be just how you want it. Usually we have an initial conversation where I understand what you’re looking for, and you get to know me and get comfortable I'm the right choice to do a great job for you. If you decide to go with me, we sign a simple contract and make payment arrangements. At that time, or at a later date, we have a deeper conversation with bride and groom to really get to know you and talk through details and options, enough to create a draft of your unique wedding ceremony. You review that and provide feedback and I finalize it. Some couples want to see a full script, others want a general feel but don’t want/need to know “word for word”, and want an “in the moment” experience”. And I’m ok either way.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My Bachelors degree included a minor in Communication. My first Masters degree is an MS in Management with minor in Organizational Psychology. I also hold a Master of Arts in Ministry. I've had extensive training in consulting, facilitation, and presentation skills. And over the course of my career have spoken countless times to groups from 4 to 1,000 people. My religious training and my own faith journey began through my mother and grandfather, both Methodist ministers, and my own active church participation growing up. I'm detail-oriented and want my work to be perfect, and I've done a lot of research into each of the service areas I offer...weddings, baptisms, renewal of vows, funerals, and celebrations of life.. I am an ordained nondenominational Christian minister.