 |
I am here to make sure your ceremony is a reflection of who you
are as a couple. Planning your wedding ceremony is a process of
exploration and discovery, it can be one of the more enjoyable and
private aspects of wedding planning as it is time for a couple to
concentrate upon each other.  I
look forward to guiding you in its creation and learning about your
personal beliefs and desires. Remember that marrying outside a traditional
religious ceremony means that every word, gesture and moment can
be shaped by you to reflect a combining of values; you are not restricted
in any way. However, I do recommend a structure that ensures the
ceremony progresses smoothly and is enjoyable for those who have
come to witness your union.
I honor all religious and cultural traditions and I know we can
incorporate anything you may require. You also have final approval
over the ceremony and we can make modifications until you are satisfied.
My fees include unlimited ceremony script consultations and updates,
research and resource material consultations with your musicians/DJ/photographer/videographer/wedding
planner as needed, the use of a portable PA system when needed,
a rehearsal and of course me solemnizing your marriage.
The Process
The first step is a meeting for you to discuss your expectations,
ideas and backgrounds. We can either meet at my home in Manhattan
(West Village ) or anywhere that is convenient for you. At this
meeting, you will be provided with material to inspire and perhaps
fill out a specially designed questionnaire.
This is your day and I understand that sometimes enormous diplomacy
is required in order that the needs of all can be accommodated.
Perhaps your mother wanted you to get married in the church or temple
she did. Perhaps there are very important loved ones who are separated
by death. Or consider the wedding of an Irishmen to his Japanese
bride. It was deemed inappropriate to shake or hug the Mother of
the Bride as he would naturally do in his own culture. Instead it
was agreed that he would bow at a particular angle to the mother
and she to him. It was an incredibly moving moment.
As with any well-constructed ritual, a wedding ceremony has a certain
flow and order to it that leads up to the final moment of the kiss.
In some ways it is theatre. There is the drama and the excitement,
the color and the aroma of witnessing a hugely private moment in
a public space. It is a good idea to start with a rough draft and
allow yourself to explore various possibilities; discernment will
follow. You may feel a bit overwhelmed by the volume of your choices.
After our initial meeting in person, most of the couples I work
with prefer to exchange e-mail drafts until the text is perfect.
If there is a wording or a phrasing that is not to your satisfaction,
we change it immediately, until eventually by the time you are standing,
facing each other and looking into each others eyes, what you hear
me say is actually your voice. If you are not having a rehearsal,
then I like to meet with you again in the week leading up to the
wedding, only if your schedule permits and at your convenience.
|
|
|
