FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My pricing is very straight forward with absolutely no surprises. Consultations are always free, and can be done over the phone, via. Skype, or in person. All other services (interim communications & meetings prior to the ceremony, filing with the town/county, ceremony planning, etc.) are included at no additional cost. My only added fees are for attendance at your rehearsal dinner ($50), providing marriage certificates as issued by the Open Ministry ($15), and any costs associated with overnight stays that may be required.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
This answer is a bit long-winded, but I feel it's very important for you to have the most information possible when selecting an officiant! So here is my typical process of working with a new couple: Step #1: Get to know if we're the right fit! We text / speak over the phone, and get an idea as to how you would like your ceremony to go. If you get a good feeling from me and you like how I'm envisioning the ceremony and responding to your questions, then we move on! If not, it's absolutely fine. Not everyone can like everyone! The most important thing is that you find an officiant that you're comfortable and confident with. Step #2: In person meeting (if requested) or commence detailed email communications. This is where the planning really begins. We start to outline how your ceremony will play out: what you do / don't want included, who else you want to participate, pick standard vow language, select any special in-ceremony events (i.e. unity candles, blending of the sand, etc.), and just get a general rough outline. Step #3: Review the draft ceremony write-up. This is where you get to see all our hard work coming together. At this point, you can add / remove / modify things, which we will work on doing together. Some couples want the details of what will be said to be kept as a surprise, which I am also fine with doing! Step #4: Approve the final draft. We should always strive for this to be in a final state at least 1-week before the wedding, just so it's one less thing to think about. Step #5: Attend Rehearsal Dinner (if requested). This is where I will meet your wedding party (and anyone else participating in the ceremony)to review how everything will be executed. This includes: pairing people who will be walking down the isle, establishing the walking order, letting them know what the expectations of their participation will be (i.e. bridesmaid will hold flowers... and tissues, groomsman will have the rings, brother/sister will be giving the speech after [insert timing here] etc.). Step #6: GET MARRIED!
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I'm an active duly ordained minister of the Open Ministry. The church of the Open Ministry is a non-denominational church that welcomes all. My standing as a minister is recognized in all 50 states, which allows me to legally perform weddings and ceremonies anywhere in the US!