Weddings Your Way

Serves Tinton Falls, NJ

35244

Hired 79 times

1 employee

13 years in business

$300

4.9

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, and Zelle.

Next Service

Hours

Sun 8:00 am - 11:59 pm

Mon Closed

Tues Closed

Wed Closed

Thurs Closed

Fri Closed

Sat 8:00 am - 11:59 pm

Credentials

Background Check

Barbara Hawes
Completed on 4/3/2024

Introduction

Hi and congratulations! I saw your request...the answer is yes! From the simple backyard gathering to the full religious service with readings and homily, we can make this ceremony yours. Just as you pick out the setting. the menu, the colors....why not have a customized ceremony? This is your day and it should reflect your personalities and tone. Whether you envision a very traditional ceremony or a casual affair, I will customize a service that will be both comfortable and personal. I design a ceremony, using what readings/poems you wish, adding symbolic traditions such as unity candle, sand sculptures, handfasting, or other family traditions that bring meaning to your special day. Heard or saw something you want to include? Ask, and I will be happy to include it. A copy of the service is given to you when it's over. That ceremony, written especially for you, is yours alone. Give me a call and let's talk about how to make your wedding uniquely yours!

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

I believe that the officiant's work is important, but the price should not be so much that it is prohibitive. You are never charged extra -- I estimate my price from the time spent researching and writing your ceremony, and the distance/tolls to travel. Signing forms, rehearsals, etc are all part of the quote.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I like to meet with someone in person or on the phone get to know them a little better and what they want in the ceremony. I then draft up a service and the couple approves it. I can help with organizing the wedding party at the rehearsal, or offer other resources as needed.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

Ordained minister for the past 12 years, double major in Philosophy/Religion and Psychology; PhD in Clinical Psychology.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I became a minister when I discovered that there was a need for an eclectic officiant who would spend the time to develop a personalized ceremony with a couple to make the day meaningful for both the couple and those attending.

What types of customers have you worked with?

From many different religions and backgrounds. I enjoy learning from them about traditions that I might not be aware of and including them in the ceremony. Some have already been "secretly" married, and want to have a public ceremony. For others, situations may change because of illness or travel, and what was going to be a wedding, becomes re-written as a commitment ceremony, and a new wedding ceremony for later is designed.

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

There is no better and more fun event to me than a "surprise" wedding (sometimes the surprise is on the bride, other times the family who thought they were coming to a shower, birthday party, etc) . It does take some careful planning, and consideration of all in attendance, but is absolutely delightful for the right couple. To mingle with the guests in cognito, pretending to be an old friend, and then at the right moment, pop out with a collar and cross while the bride re-appears in her wedding dress causes many priceless reactions among those there.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Picture your perfect wedding... ....you and your future spouse looking at each other ...... what do you want to say to them? what would you like to hear? these are the memories you will create for a lifetime together, and I'm there to help paint that picture with you.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

If you have a vision for what your wedding should look like (the venue, what dress, colors, etc) then you can envision what you want it to sound like. Would you be more comfortable with a low-keyed, casual ceremony with a few laughs, or an emotional, heartfelt ceremony? What about a more spiritual one, filled with prayers and readings? Find your comfort level. Add special traditions. Make it yours.