What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
The cost of the wedding ceremony is regulated by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The fee is $150 anywhere in Massachusetts other than Beverly. In Beverly, the fee is $100. Most weddings I officiate are within 30 miles of Beverly, although I have traveled more for special reasons. I am in and around Boston often.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Before selecting me as your officiant, I encourage a consultation. There is no charge for this, but it has a high value to both of you, and especially to me. There needs to be a connection between the three of us.
During this meeting, we will discuss the elements of the ceremony, and I usually can answer questions that you haven't thought to ask. I also explain what you can expect from me at the rehearsal (which is optional) and the wedding day.
After that meeting, we exchange email to produce a ceremony to your liking. While a second in-person consultation is possible, it's usually not needed. The next time we meet in person is the rehearsal or the wedding day.
A 50% down payment is accepted around the time of the consultation. Final payment can be made at the rehearsal or prior to the ceremony on your wedding pay.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I love being with happy people on happy days like a wedding day. Public speaking comes easily to me, and working with groups of people is a pleasure. I have worked professionally in broadcasting, and my current work experience is in human resources. I was also involved in the founding a local Toastmasters club which hones all kinds of presentation.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
Being a wedding officiant is something I wanted to do for many years before I took the necessary steps to be appointed by the governor of Massachusetts. I decided one day to go for it, and I have never regretted the decision.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I feel comfortable working with any couple that has found love, and wish to make the marriage commitment. You can see the faces of many people I have worked with on my Facebook page.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
While most ceremonies are traditional, I have had some interesting and memorable experiences.
One ceremony was on Salem Common on Halloween in full costume. Yes, that was a special project and a lot of fun.
Another "special" ceremony was my very first. That ceremony was to be a total surprise to the parents of the bride and groom, and we pulled it off without a hitch... well, except for the "hitch" of the marriage. :)
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
When we sit together for a consultation, it's always good to have some things in mind for your ceremony. Consider nice things from other weddings that you have attended over the years. Also, if there is something you definitely do not want it's good to consider that too.
Don't be overly nervous about memorizing your vows; they can be "repeat-after-me." If you choose to do your own vows, they are especially easy when spoken from the heart. Vows are always beautiful regardless of how they are spoken.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Most couples have already selected members of their wedding party before meeting with an officiant. You will also want to consider if you will have a child as a ring bearer or flower girl. If so, consider options of where they will be during the ceremony.
If there is someone you wanted in your wedding party, but for one reason or another it wasn't going to be, consider asking that person to do a reading.
If you have children in your life already, we can involve them, regardless of their age. Be sure to mention any special family member or friend that you would like as a part of your wedding day.
