Frequently Asked Questions
How does this process work?
You can read my step-by-step process on the About page.
I am ready to reserve my date. What's the next step?
Visit the Contact Page and complete the form! I will respond quickly with my availability and to set up an initial discovery call. You may also contact me by phone, 860-716-5761 (cell) if you have any specific questions or concerns.
How far in advance should I reserve my date?
I strongly suggest you reserve as soon as you have decided on a date to ensure availability! If you need to change your date after submitting your reservation, you may reschedule your wedding date once within 9 months from the original date and any amounts already paid will be fully applied. The new wedding date is subject to my availability.
How do I coordinate my marriage license?
It is my obligation to make sure that the ceremony is legal. You should apply for your marriage license anytime between 4 to 60 days before the ceremony. In the state of Connecticut, the timeline to acquire your marriage license can vary by town/city, so it is best to find out the information from the town you will be married in.
You and your partner will need to go to the town hall in that town, meet with the town clerk, and fill out the necessary forms. It may be advisable to have someone with nice handwriting fill in the forms in advance, so the only thing left to do on the wedding day is sign. I can also fill in the forms prior to the ceremony. Be sure to select your two witnesses, who must 18 years or older. I will take the signed marriage license and file it with your town hall so that it will be recorded.
How long does the ceremony take?
The wedding ceremony usually lasts about 20-25 minutes depending on how much the couple customizes it by adding special vows, readings, poems, music, etc., and how simple or elaborate the processional and recessional are.
What happens if you (the Officiant) get sick?
In the unlikely event that I am unable to perform the ceremony for any reason, I will find a qualified substitute replacement who will follow the ceremony outline that has been created for your wedding.
Do we have to memorize our vows?
No. In my Custom Ceremonies, you may write your own vows but I will happily recite them to you as you repeat them after me.
Does the Officiant stay for the reception?
While etiquette may dictate that the Officiant should be an invited guest to your reception, I do not require it. I love officiating for all weddings, but I also do not want to see a couple feel obligated to invite me as a guest to their wedding reception. This is simply not necessary.
What time does the Officiant arrive prior to the ceremony?
I will arrive at least 30-45 minutes before the ceremony unless there are reasons established prior to the date that require I arrive earlier. An on-site cell phone number is required.
Is a rehearsal necessary?
Traditionally, most bridal books suggest a ceremony rehearsal. I suggest my couples talk it over with me. Rehearsals are very helpful in reducing stress and nervousness. Walking through the ceremony with your wedding party also allows for identifying challenges that may arise and would otherwise not be realized until it is too late. You may or may not need your Officiant present — much depends on the location and size of your wedding.
There is an additional fee for a rehearsal and the cost depends on how much time is involved for the Officiant. I can offer a simple Rehearsal Guide if you wish. A practice run may be an option prior to guests arriving on the day of the wedding if the venue is available and the necessary participants are present. All of these details must be worked out in advance.
Can I customize my ceremony to include my children/parents, etc.?
If you selected a Custom Ceremony, absolutely! After you have made your reservation request and paid your deposit, I will be delighted to work with you to customize your ceremony to fit your wishes.
Is there any additional charge for getting married during a holiday?
There is an additional fee of $150.00 for weddings performed during certain holidays; i.e. Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Years Eve, and New Years Day.
Can you send me a brochure via regular mail?
It is my goal to provide affordable prices while maintaining the highest standards of personal service. My "brochure" is my website. A printed representation could not compare to the amount of information, photos, and descriptions found on my website. Once your day has been reserved and the deposit is received, I will send sample ceremonies and vows via e-mail. Should you desire a truly customized ceremony, we will then arrange a time and date to meet and discuss all the options and any resulting fees.
Outdoor Wedding Questions
What about “Sunset” wedding requests?
The sunset is a very quick spectacle, only lasting about 5 -10 minutes. Once the sun sets, it gets dark very quickly and limits photography. The only way to have your ceremony right at sunset is if it does not include arches and/or post-ceremony photographs. Weddings are usually scheduled approximately one to one and a half hours before sunset. Even if you schedule a sunset ceremony, if there are clouds in the sky, you may not be able to see the sunset at all! Because of this, you should not give the sunset time too much weight when choosing your ceremony time. A late afternoon or early evening ceremony will still give you a beautiful setting for your wedding photos.
What happens if it rains?
It is the couple's responsibility to arrange a back-up plan in case of inclement weather. You are contracting my services to go to an outdoor setting and perform your wedding ceremony. No refunds will be given due to inclement weather. However, you will have the option of a one-time rescheduling of your ceremony. Inclement weather includes, but is not limited to rain, the threat of lightning, anticipated thunderstorms, or dangerous weather conditions. If you are planning an indoor reception, your ceremony can be moved to that location or I can postpone your ceremony until the next available day, subject to availability.
Can I bring my own music CD?
You are welcome to bring special music to be played during the ceremony. This request must be coordinated with whoever is providing the sound system. Please note: Music played on a CD player on the beach or other outdoor venue does not always lend itself to good sound quality and volume. Factors such as the surf, birds, beachgoers, etc. may interfere with the volume and quality of the music.
Do you provide a microphone/ sound system?
Yes, I can provide a portable sound system for an additional fee of $175. This system accommodates groups of up to 150 people indoors, 50 to 75 people outdoors. For ceremonies in all locations other than a small setting/home with less than 20 guests, a sound system with a wireless microphone is strongly encouraged.