Questions/Answers
How does your process work?
The first step is an initial meeting during which we get to know each other a bit, discuss what you’re looking for in your ceremony, and determine if I’m the right officiant for you. This initial meeting usually lasts about 30-60 minutes and can take place in person (my preference), or via phone, Hangouts, Skype, etc.
If we all agree that we’re a good match, I’ll send you a simple agreement that outlines basic responsibilities and obligations. Return the contract with a 50% deposit and we’re on our way.
I’ll then send you a questionnaire asking you some questions about some logistics, as well as your preferences/wants/needs for the ceremony. You’ll answer all of those questions as a couple. There is, however, one question that you’ll each answer individually: tell me the story of how you met and got from that day to deciding to spend your lives together.
Once I have your responses, we’ll set up another meeting to go over everything. I’ll likely have some follow up questions for you, and will gladly answer any questions you may have for me. This meeting usually takes about 90 minutes, and usually gives me all the information I need to write your ceremony. If, for any reason, another meeting (or meetings) is required, I’m happy to sit down with you again. Whatever it takes to get it right.
In addition to the above, I’m readily available for any questions, consultations or to help in whatever way I can. I am fully at your service.
How much time is involved?
Estimated meeting times are included in the above response. As far as timeline goes, ideally, I have everything I need from you no later than one month prior to your wedding date. You’ll be very busy those last few weeks and I want to stay out of your way so you can focus on everything else.
Depending on how quickly you’re able to complete and return your questionnaire responses to me, everything can be done in a matter of weeks, or over the course of several months. I’m happy to work with your schedule.
If you need someone last-minute or on short notice, don’t hesitate to get in touch. I can usually condense this timeline to match yours.
Are you willing to travel?
I love to travel! There is no additional charge for weddings within two hours driving time of the Boulder/Denver area (that includes Estes Park to the north and as far west as the Vail Valley). However, if a rehearsal is scheduled for the previous day, I will require one night of lodging for weddings more than one hour driving time from Boulder/Denver.
Further distances would require an additional night’s stay and a surcharge for fuel and drive time.
If you’re planning to get married somewhere beyond Colorado, I’m open to that too. Let’s talk.
What does “non-denominational” mean?
As a non-denominational officiant, I do not perform ceremonies based in a specific religion. However, I have done plenty of weddings where the couple wanted to include something religious. In those cases, we typically identify an attending friend or family member to give a reading.
I am happy to be as traditional or creative as you want to be, and am fine with performing same-sex and other non-traditional unions.
How much does it cost?
I offer three levels of service:
1. Basic - $250
Your basic wedding ceremony. Vows and ring exchange, and some lovely “words of wisdom" about marriage. No rehearsal. For ceremonies more than 50 miles outside Boulder, a travel surcharge of $50 per 100 miles will be added.
2. Semi-Personalized - $500
Similar to the above, but I’ll send you a brief questionnaire ahead of time, the answers to which will allow me to personalize your ceremony to some degree (most couples who choose this option are surprised by how personal the ceremony is). Rehearsal negotiable. For ceremonies more than 50 miles outside of Boulder, a travel surcharge of $50 per 100 miles will be added.
3. Full custom personalization - $950
By far my most popular option. I'll send you a simple-but-detailed questionnaire that gets into the logistics of the ceremony and the story of how you met. Once I receive your responses to that questionnaire, we’ll sit down together (or meet via Skype, FaceTime, etc.) to go over everything. I then take all of that information and pour it into a fully custom, personalized ceremony tailored expressly to your wishes.
Includes all questions, consultations, meetings, rehearsal and return of marriage certificate to the appropriate county clerk. If you're getting married more than 50 miles beyond Boulder, we can discuss travel arrangements.