FAQs
Q: What is your fee?
A: Typically $300, plus additional compensation for travel, attending a rehearsal on a separate day, and any other services, such as music consultation. Once we have had a chance to discuss what you have in mind, I will be able to give you an exact figure.
Travel fees:
Travel to the ceremony location beyond 10 miles from zip code 06032 incurs a travel fee.
10 to 20 miles - $35
21 to 34 miles – $50
35 to 49 miles – $75
50 to 74 miles – $100
75 to 100 miles – $125
Q: Will you travel outside of Connecticut to officiate our ceremony?
A: Yes, but cost varies by state. Please contact me to inquire about your specific location. It might be more cost effective to find an officiant in that particular state.
Q: Does our ceremony have to be religious?
A: One of the wonderful things about being ordained by American Marriage Ministries is that they and I are not affiliated with any one church, and so your ceremony is not tied to one religion, or any religion for that matter. I will happily perform weddings that are deeply religious in nature or that feature no reference to God or any higher power at all. It is your day and your ceremony, and I want more than anything for it to reflect who you are and what you believe.
Q: What is the process for acquiring a marriage license?
A: Connecticut has made it very simple to acquire a marriage license. Just follow these easy steps:
- You and your partner must appear at City Hall in the town where the ceremony will be held. Licenses are valid for 65 days once issued.
- You will be asked to complete a request for a license, to present identification, and to swear that all of the information you have provided on the form is true.
- Marriage licenses cost $50, payable in cash or check. If you choose to do so, you may pay an additional $20 and receive an official copy of the marriage certificate once the license has been filed. (You may need this for various legal procedures afterward.)
- On the day of your wedding, give the license to your officiant. He or she will fill out the rest of the required information, and then return the document to City Hall for you.
That's it! Connecticut doesn't require any blood tests, a waiting period, or even any witnesses at the wedding itself. If you would like more information, contact the town in which you plan to get married.
Q: Will you officiate same-sex marriages?
A: Of course! I strongly believe that is the natural right of all people to marry the person they love.
Q: Will you also sing at our ceremony?
A: My preference is to officiate only, so as to avoid the appearance of your ceremony looking like it’s all about me! If you would like any music for your wedding, whether vocal or instrumental, I would be more than happy to make recommendations from a list of the many talented and experienced musicians I know.
Parts of a traditional wedding ceremony:
The Procession is the beginning of the wedding ceremony. This is when the wedding party enters and take their places for the ceremony. Your procession may include parents, children, grandparents, bridesmaids and groomsmen, flower girls and ring bearers, etc. It could also be as simple as the bride or groom entering by themselves. It's entirely up to you how involved it is.
The Invocation is when the officiant welcomes the guests, introduces the couple, and reminds everyone why they are there. It acts as the "opening paragraph" of the wedding. The officiant may have a reflection to offer, tell a story about the couple, or share a reading – a poem, verses from scripture, and literary passages are all great options. The officiant will also emphasize the importance of the commitment the couple is about to make.
Declaration of Intent, also known as the “I do’s,” is when the couple publicly declares their intent to marry. It is the verbal equivalent of the marriage license. Participants are asked whether they are there of their own free will and that they understand the significance of the promises they are making.
Rituals and Traditions
Many couples choose to include additional features such as a unity candle, hand fasting, jumping the broom, etc. I can work with you to find the ritual that fits best both with your own personal beliefs and the flow of your ceremony.
Vows & Ring Exchange
It is quite common for couples to compose their own vows in addition to or in place of the officiant offering a “repeat after me” format. The ring exchange occurs after the vows have been spoken. This is also where you may choose to include one of the rituals mentioned above or one of your own choosing. The vows and ring exchange are a very meaningful part of any wedding service.
Pronouncement, Kiss, and Recessional
The officiant pronounces you married, which is the symbolic binding of the marriage contract. The couple seals their vows with a kiss and makes their way down the aisle, followed by the bridal party, family members and guests. There's nothing left to it but the party!