|
Frequently Asked Questions
We have given a bit of information about the services we provide below. Please know that should you decide to have us provide you with our services that we take great care in performing a ceremony that you will be pleased with. We will always be happy to make your ceremony as unique as you would like.
Thanks so much for your interest. We look forward to speaking with you about your needs.
We want you to perform a ceremony for us. What happens next?
You can contact us by telephone at 1-888-442-8895 or contact us via email. We will gather information about you and the type of ceremony that you want, and answer any questions that you have about our services.
What kind of ceremonies do you perform?
Our services can be both Interfaith and Nondenominational. We perform ceremonies for any form of relationship regardless of faith or orientation. Interfaith ceremonies, rites of passage, legal marriages and civil unions, handfastings, memorials, birthings, naming ceremonies, wiccanings, rites of death, crossing over, house blessings and protection, polyamorous unions as well as Bi/Les/Gay relationships. We can provide clergy services for any members of the community who are without a church, or can't turn to their usual church and are in need of ministerial services.
As for weddings, handfastings, and civil unions:
There are many different types of ceremonies -- formal and informal, religious or spiritual, as well as, secular that couples request. Some are more traditional or more religious than others. There is an increasing number of interfaith marriages, and often couples need to be sensitive to the sensibilities of their family, as well as, true to their own spirituality. Some couples, particularly those getting re-married, prefer simple, private weddings in a backyard or some beautiful natural location.
Most people prefer updated traditional ceremonies or something truly unique they have created themselves. They want the strength and elegance of tradition with a fresh, personal touch. They want their wedding to be both deeply meaningful and delightfully magical. There are so many wonderful choices of ceremonies, readings, vows, and other elements and we will work to create the perfect individualized ceremony for each couple. Please know that our services can be non-denominational.
Where can you legally marry people?
While we are based in Pennsylvania, our ministers' ordinations are recognized in all 50 states. Some states require registration and licensing for legal marriages, but with proper notification these issues can be taken care of well in advance.
Do you have a sample wedding format?
Basic outline of a simple service:
- Greeting and Invocation
- Statement of Purpose
- Exchange of Vows
- Exchange of Rings
- Prayers
- Pronouncement of Marriage
- Blessing
This does not include such things as readings, music, unity candle, children's vows, rose exchange, or other familiar elements. Anything that you would like to include in your ceremony can be inserted in what ever context you prefer. The ceremony is yours and this special day is yours. We strive to be sure that anyone who comes to us to perform these services is completely happy with their service in every way.
How long do most weddings last?
Typically weddings are from 20 to 30 minutes long. However, they can be as short as ten minutes or as long as an hour and a half depending on the desires of the couple.
How much advance notice do I have to give?
In certain rare circumstances (and if granted some flexibility) we can be available with very short notice, but ideally six to eight months is needed for summer weekend weddings, three to six months the rest of the year. The earlier you confirm the better your chances of securing your preferred date, time, and place. It is also good to have your premarital counseling done within a month of the wedding, to lighten your load as the big day approaches.
IMPORTANT: Please book early for peak season (May-Sept. and holiday dates) weddings!!
We don't belong to a church but want to get married in one. What do you suggest?
Most traditional churches only rent their churches to members. However, Quaker Friends and Unitarian are both willing to rent their churches.
Do I have to meet you beforehand?
We prefer a face-to-face interview with the couple so we can find out if we are really who you want to perform your wedding. We can not stress enough that this is your wedding and it is truly important to us that it be everything that your heart desires.
How much do you charge and what do your fees include?
For Weddings/Handfastings/Civil Unions: Start at $250 plus 35 cents per mile travel after the first 25 miles ($100 non-refundable deposit/scheduling fee at time of face-to-face interview session to reserve date, mileage is due at the time of each counseling session). For holiday weddings there is usually an additional charge. Please contact me for more information.
On the rare occasion that an area that is over 150 miles from from our closest minister's home we will require that they be near the place of the wedding overnight and airfare if travel exceeds 4 hours by car. These costs are generally calculated according to mileage or air fare, a $50 stipend, plus lodging and car rental.
Basic Weddings/Handfastings/Civil Unions include:
- Two premarital counseling session (in addition to the interview),
- May be used for rehearsals - over 75 miles over-night accommodations and $50 stipend are necessary,
Your service or selection of available services,
Officiate wedding service
Filing of marriage license,
Original copy of marriage certificate suitable for framing,
Additional premarital counseling sessions are $50.00 plus (if necessary) travel, accommodations, and stipend.
Need a cheap and easy wedding? Click Here!
Do you perform other ceremonies?
Yes. We also do baby and religious dedications and memorial services and are willing to work with you for any rite of passage, funeral or house blessing. Your needs are our concern and we will work with you to support any ceremony you may need me to perform.
Note: Spiritual Counseling, Personal Advice, and Hospital Visitations are always free.
Do you perform same sex marriages?
Yes, we will perform civil unions where legal. Most states defined a legal marriage as a legal and ceremonial union between a male and female couple, but we are more then happy to perform handfasting, commitment, or partnership ceremonies for any loving relationship including those in Poly relationships.
Do you perform theme weddings?
Certainly! They are great fun and a testament to the couples' individuality.
Are you actually a minister and where did you get your credentials?
Yes, Rev. Alexander received his ordination through the Universal Life Church of Modesto California on October 22, 2001, and all ministers' credentials are on record and available for inspection.
For further questions or to book your date please contact us with your date and preferences.
Call To Request Your Wedding Date
Toll-free @ 1-888-442-8895
| 