The focus of the wedding is on YOU,
the BRIDE and GROOM.
As the wedding "officiate," I act as a director
or choreographer of a wonderful, happy celebration of love and commitment. Since it is YOUR wedding, it should
include all the aspects of ceremony and celebration that are meaningful to you. It can be as traditional or as personal and
customized as you wish.
I consult with each couple ahead of time and go over a 5-6 page wedding ceremony
checklist. This consultation is usually in person, but can be done by telephone/e-mail if preferred or necessary. Each
couple chooses the order of service and the various personal aspects of the ceremony they want included. We cover all the
questions about who, what, where, when, and how. Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Flower Girl(s), Ring Bearer(s), ushers, parents,
relatives, honored guests, music (live, recorded, solos, etc.), flowers, rings, candles, readings, sermon, vows, prayers,
etc.
I write up a completely customized and personalized "script" for each couple's wedding. In my
message, with the couple's permission, I will usually include some interesting facts about how they met, and what their
dreams and goals are as they now move through life together. I concentrate my remarks on the wedding couple,
and ask everyone to focus on the things that bring us together and help love to grow.
At least a week or two before
the wedding I will send a copy of the entire wedding "script" to the couple for them to review. I will send it by
mail, fax, or e-mail. This gives them a chance to make sure the ceremony will include precisely all the things that are important
to them. If there are any changes needed, we have plenty of time to make them.
When the time comes for the rehearsal
- included with the full-service wedding package - (or if there is none, then the wedding), everything should go like
"clockwork" because of the "script." This extra effort of mine to send each couple a "script"
ahead of time is intended to give them peace of mind. The result is usually complete confidence that everything will go smoothly
and according to their plan during their ceremony. After all the time and money spent planning your wedding, I want to do
everything I can to make it organized to perfection.