"Jo" of All Trades - Wedding Officiant, Dream C...
Scheduling
Responds within a day
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About
I spent my full-time career working in roles that required strong interpersonal skills, including serving as a campus minister and an end-of-life caretaker. These experiences taught me how to connect deeply with people from all walks of life and to honor each individual’s unique perspective and story.
I’ve always found joy in working with people who see and express the world in their own way. Whether I’m officiating a marriage ceremony or capturing a photo session, my goal is to reflect my clients’ personalities—creating moments and images that feel authentic to them, not shaped by me.
In my semi-retirement, I now focus on elopements and micro weddings, drawn to their intimacy and personal nature. I’m often hired as both officiant and photographer, which allows me to blend my skills and provide a seamless, meaningful experience.
Officiating weddings and photographing life’s milestones—weddings, portraits, family gatherings, and reunions—gives me the privilege of being present during some of the happiest moments in people’s lives. After years of supporting individuals through more difficult times, this work brings me a deep sense of joy and fulfillment.
Overview
Hired 43 times
3 similar jobs done near you
Background checked
1 employee
12 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash and Check.
Services offered
Type of ceremony
Service type (affiliation)
Christian
Interfaith
Non-denominational (mentions God)
Non-religious (no mention of God)
Need help writing vows?
I can work with couples who need help writing vows
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
37 reviews
5
100%
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Read reviews that mention:
Derek N.
Aug 13, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Jo was absolutely amazing - truly the best we could have asked for. From the very first meeting, she made us feel comfortable, listened to our story, and captured our personalities perfectly. The ceremony Jo created was heartfelt, personal and unforgettable. We couldn't be more grateful for the love she poured into our special day!
Details: Wedding • Non-denominational (mentions God) • 20 guests or fewer • I'm flexible • English • Officiant will not be needed at the rehearsal
Wedding Officiant
Ben B.
Oct 17, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
Jo was amazing! By far one of the nicest people I have ever met. We met up a few months prior to meet and go over the plan as well as chatting a week prior to go over details. She was excellent at helping us with the rehearsal and even better at the ceremony. We even stayed at her AirBnB (which is adorable by the way!)
She really is a 'Jo' of all trades. We can't express our gratitude enough that we found her and we will definitely be keeping in touch!
Thank you for everything!
-Rachael and Ben
Details: Wedding • Non-denominational (mentions God) • 21 - 50 guests • Help writing vows will be needed • English • Officiant will be needed at the rehearsal
Wedding Officiant
Jason S.
Jun 10, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
What an Amazing experience my wife and I received using Jo's services! Jo was extremely interested in getting to know my wife and I to add a much appreciated personal touch to the renewal vows! All communications with Jo were professional, direct and caring for our needs. I could not be happier with my experience and would recommend her services to anyone. Thank you Jo, you were truly inspirational and a welcome part of our special day!
Details: Vow renewal • Non-denominational (mentions God) • Help writing vows will be needed • English • I'm flexible
Wedding Officiant
Deandra L.
Dec 5, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
Jo was absolutely incredible! She took our wedding on last minute and worked with us diligently to be sure that we had the day we had always dreamed of! She was beyond kind and professional! We met with her to go over the ceremony in detail and she even included our young daughter and made her feel special. I can’t recommend her enough!
Details: Non-religious (no mention of God) • Help writing vows will not be needed • English • Officiant will not be needed at the rehearsal
Wedding Officiant
Stephanie M.
Jul 23, 2021
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Hired on Thumbtack
Jo was the perfect match for us and I couldn't have imagined anyone else officiating our wedding! She was thorough, communicative and personable. She took time to understand who we are as individuals and was not 'cookie cutter' what-so-ever. The details of how she put together our ceremony were fabulous and touched on many things we didn't even know we needed to consider. I highly recommend Jo as an officiant! We were so lucky to find her and were 100% satisfied from beginning to end. Thank you Jo!
Details: Wedding • Non-denominational (mentions God) • 21 - 50 guests • Help writing vows will not be needed • English • Officiant will not be needed at the rehearsal • Officiant does not need to be present at rehearsal
Wedding Officiant
Credentials
Background Check
Jo Stiller Polinsky
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Please note, An extra $50. will be added to my fees for weddings that occur more than a 30 minute drive from my location in the southtowns. During the winter months (December through February), I will only entertain officiating a wedding that is no further north or east than West Seneca and no further south or east than Springville due to possible inclement weather. I do not want to disappoint you by not being able to get to you on your wedding day!
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I typically reach out to you by phone and make sure we are a good fit by answering any questions we each may have. Then I schedule a meeting with you and your fiance at my house. During this meeting, we will plan your wedding ceremony from beginning to end. Afterwards, I will type your ceremony script and email it to you so you can approve it or ask me to make changes in the areas you're not happy with. The next time I will see you will either be at your rehearsal or the day of your wedding. Of course, I am always available to answer any questions by phone.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Pastoral Ministry Certificate from Houghton College through the 3 year PCMP program, A BS in Transpersonal Psychology and World Religions from Empire State College and two years of Catholic Biblical School.
I was a Campus Minister at two area colleges and a Youth Minister at my church.
I gave several presentations in the area on "Understanding Your Dreams"
