My Process

When you contact me for a free consultation, here's what will happen:

  • I'll request some preliminary information (names, date of ceremony, contact information, etc.).
  • We'll set a date/time and place to meet that is mutually convenient.
  • Before we meet, I'll email you sample ceremonies to review.
  • We'll meet, get acquainted, and talk about:

    • The process for obtaining your marriage or civil union license.
    • What type of ceremony you have in mind.
    • Whether or not you'll want any rituals or traditions included, or if you'll want friends or family members to participate (e.g., readings, unity candle/sand ceremony).
    • My fees and the comprehensive services they cover.
  • I'll leave two copies of my contract with you, pre-signed by me, and ask that you take some time to consider what we've discussed and determine if I am the "right" officiant to join you in marriage or civil union.

I'm always deeply honored when asked to take on the responsibility of performing a marriage or civil union ceremony. If you decide I am the "right" officiant for you, here's what you can expect to happen.

What happens next?

  • You'll return one signed contract to me with your deposit. (The balance is due on or before the day of your ceremony.)
  • I'll develop the first draft of your ceremony and email it to you for review.
  • You'll send comments/changes back to me and I'll review and rework into the final version.
  • If you choose to have a rehearsal, I'll meet with you and any family members and/or friends participating in your ceremony. We'll "walk" through the entire ceremony. (The rehearsal should take under an hour.)
  • On the day of your ceremony, I'll arrive approximately an hour early so we'll have a chance to review everything.
  • Your witnesses and I will sign your marriage or civil union license. (You keep the pink copy as your "temporary" license until the certified copy is ready.)
  • You'll make final payment to me for my services.
  • Everyone will gather at the designated time and your ceremony will begin — ending when I pronounce you married/civil unioned.
  • Congratulations!


After your ceremony

  • On the next business day, I'll either mail or deliver the completed license to the appropriate Registrar's office and confirm this with you by email.
  • I'll provide you with the correct Registrar's contact information so you can call and arrange to pick up the certified copy(ies) of your marriage or civil union certificate.

More Information

"Well, we are back in the working world! The honeymoon in Aruba was excellent and the diving was fantastic! Thanks so much for everything, the ceremony was perfect."

Lynda & Dave
Bernards Inn
Bernardsville, NJ
June 2008