Spirit And Light
About
I am an officiant and celebrant with more than 35 years of experience creating and celebrating ceremonies. I serve a culturally, spiritually, economically, and philosophically diverse community in the Southwest, and always try to tailor the text I create to reflect the true natures of the people coming together to observe a life event. I am also a professional writer by trade, so I do not use templates or "fill in the blank" type text.
My website is at www.spiritandlight.net and I am on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/spiritandlight.
Photos and videos
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I prefer for them to email or text me and inquire if a particular date is available. If it is, I then ask a couple to go to my website and fill out a brief questionnaire to help me get an idea of what they are looking for in terms of style and approach to their celebration. I will meet with them if they are local (many couples are from out of state). Or, I will talk to a couple on the phone if that is more convenient for them. I prepare the text of a ceremony ahead of time and send it to them for edits or additions before the wedding.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was trained at the Corpus Christi Institute in Phoenix, and am a certified liturgist. I am also an established writer and create many texts, lyrics, and other bodies of work for celebration.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
The amount I quote a couple is an all inclusive cost for services rendered. I don't price out special observances (handbinding, etc.) separately. My cost is usually $225, unless I have agreed to travel a long distance. In such case, we will agree on a travel fee.
How did you get started in this business?
I wrote ceremonies and celebrations for many years for other ministers. I also trained speakers and lectors. I was asked to officiate, decided to do so, and have continued to do so. I quit counting couples I had married when I reached 1,000 quite a long time ago.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I have worked with couples from almost any situation that can be described. Many are older and proof that love is not the property of the very young. It is also my belief that marriage equality is an essential right of all of us.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I recently married a couple in their 50s who had survived a horrendous accident in which the groom lost his legs, and struggled for months to hold onto life itself. Their wedding was joyful, and filled with extraordinary tenderness.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Make sure you have good chemistry with your officiant, whoever you choose. Don't just hire the "cheapest" one you can find to save a few dollars. It really matters who stands with you on the day you exchange your vows.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Have some idea what you want to express at your ceremony. And be able to describe what your expectations are. Do you want traditional, religious, non-religious, contemporary, formal, or informal? And don't be pressured by your family's demands. This is about you, and what you want to say.