What is a Celebrant?

A Celebrant is a trained ceremony expert. The Celebrant's mission is to create a ceremony that reflects the needs, beliefs, cultural background, values, and tastes of those involved. More information on Celebrancy can be found at the Celebrant Institute's website (www.celebrantinstitute.org).

Are you qualified to legally perform marriages?

Yes, I am ordained by the Universal Brotherhood Movement as a non-denominational minister.

Who should use the services of a Celebrant?

Anyone who wants a customized ceremony that truly reflects their values, customs and beliefs.  Many of our unions today are a mix of heritages, cultures, religious and secular beliefs.  Many of us no longer have a personal relationship with a pastor, rabbi or priest.  Some of you may have been married before, and your union is also an expression of your two families coming together.  A Celebrant ceremony will reflect all that is meaningful to you.

What is the process like?

I will meet you and your fiancée first for an informal, no-obligations consultation.  During this time, I will ask you some questions to get to know you, and will encourage you to do the same.  I will also give you a packet of some information.  If it feels like a good fit, I will ask you to send me back a signed contract and a 50% deposit.  Once that is received, I will send you “homework” – i.e. a Couples’ Questionnaire, for each of you to complete independent of one another, and return to me.  Your answers to this will guide my telling of your “Love Story” -- which is often the heart of the Celebrant ceremony – and what makes it so warm and personal.

Suppose I (or my fiancée) don’t want the ceremony to be too personal?

This is YOUR ceremony – the final edit is yours.  I usually complete a first draft about a month before the wedding date and e-mail it to you.  Then we make revisions by telephone calls and e-mail -- as often as you think necessary – right up until the time you are actually walking down the aisle!  I expect you to want to make changes, until we all get it right.

How do I go about choosing vows, and readings?

When we go to contract I will also send you vow, ring vow and reading selections, if you so choose. You can also check out the books mentioned on the Resources page of this website.

How far in advance should we book your services?

Weddings in the northeast tend to be seasonal.  So, if you are planning a Spring or Fall wedding, I would recommend at least 6 months in advance.  Also weekends, of course, are premium times,

What is your fee?  What does it include?

My fee is based on a number of factors: number of ritual elements, size of wedding party, number of guests, etc.  Generally a small wedding (home-based, back yard or park) will be between $400 - $500. A large, traditional wedding format is usually between $600-$750.  This includes an in-person meeting, unlimited consultations and editing, and a final custom printed Keepsake of the ceremony for you to cherish. 

If you have a question I haven’t answered, please feel free to contact me:

Risa@LovingHeartCeremonies.com or 201-741-6056.  I will get back to you within a day.