I feel a couple invites me to preside over their wedding ceremony because they are attracted to the way I'm able warmly connect with them when we first meet, either in person or during a phone consultation. Once the connection is established, they like how organized I am, and the approach I take in designing an original ceremony. Plus, I truly listen to their needs. Gaining the trust of my couples is extremely important. They want to be assured that I will deliver their marriage service in a heartfelt manner, with dignity and eloquence. Also, I always follow up with emails and communications promptly, because I know a Bride and Groom want an answer to a query almost immediately. It is not only polite that I exude happiness for their wedding day – it's actually genuine. My aim is to make my couple feel relaxed and confident that I've got this!
What drew you to this field?
Haven't we all been to a wedding where we thought the service that the Wedding Officiant, or Minister, delivered was not at all representative of the couple? As a guest, we know the Bride and Groom well, and hearing words which don't fit "who they are" as a couple, makes it seem like the service came straight off the internet, and relates to whomever!
As I have a background in journalism, I knew I could write wedding ceremonies that were inspiring and actually captured the essence of the couple. Therefore, 20-some years ago, I set about writing and designing wedding ceremonies. I knew the first thing was to gain a good relationship with my clients. This way, they would open up and allow me to find out their expectations and requirements. And with that knowledge, I would be able to source out their interests, their ideals for the future, what a marriage vow means to them, and of course ascertain their spirituality, if any.
What are some sources of inspiration or influences on your work?
I read every book I can find that I feel is relevant on marriage and relationships in today's society. Books from Self Help to Poetry. One of my favorite poetry pieces is called "Why Marriage?" by Mari Nichols-Haining. Because I understand the demands placed upon working couples, their aspirations, financial goals, traveling to wonderful places, making time for date nights, and getting through the general day-to-day stuff; it makes writing a marriage ceremony more poignant and truthful. Creating a magical ceremony comes from within – mind and heart. I also draw from my own experiences as a wife and stepmother, homeowner, businesswoman and animal lover (my husband and I currently have two rescue pups). All these things (plus yoga!) ground me, challenge me, and bring balance to my own very happy marriage and career.