FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
what are your rates?
The price for my services is $500 which includes the ceremony and rehearsal (and all consultations by phone or in person leading up to the big day). For weddings more than 40 miles outside of Chicago, additional travel fees will apply for both the wedding and rehearsal.
WHAT DO YOUR RATES INCLUDE?
- An initial consultation with me to make sure that I am a good fit for your big day
- During that meeting, we'll go over each component of the wedding ceremony
- Depending on the type of ceremony you want, I'll guide you through different elements that are traditionally involved. You can pick and choose which features you do and don't want included.
- I'll offer suggestions and lead you through an outline of elements you may want to include.
- I'll provide several drafts and additional meetings (if needed) to ensure your ceremony is perfect.
- I'll perform your ceremony and do everything I can to make sure you are relaxed and your ceremony is exactly how you have envisioned.
HOW LONG DOES THE AVERAGE CEREMONY LAST?
The length of your ceremony is up to you. On average, a ceremony runs between 20 to 30 minutes. I take pride in designing ceremonies that keep your guests present and engaged throughout.
do you offer wedding rehearsals?
Yes, your rehearsal is included in the cost of my services. Please make sure to let me know the time and location of the rehearsal as soon as possible to ensure I put it in my calendar.
will you help me write my personal vows?
Yes, I can. I'll also go over what a personal vow should entail and offer some suggestions to help you along the way.
what time will you arrive and leave on our wedding day?
I like to arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the wedding ceremony, and sometimes sooner for weddings with larger bridal parties. It's important to me that I check in with the two of you and everyone involved in the ceremony to ensure everything runs smoothly. During this time you may choose to complete your marriage license, or you may choose to complete this after the ceremony. I typically don't stay to attend the wedding reception. For weddings with rehearsals right before the ceremony, we'll collaborate on what time you'd like me to arrive.
DO YOU PERFORM LGBTQ+ WEDDINGS?
Absolutely. I support marriage equality and believe everyone should be able to marry the love of their life.
CAN CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND FRIENDS TAKE PART IN THE CEREMONY?
Of course. Including the special people in your life is a great way to make them feel like an important part of your big day. You can have them share a reading, give a blessing, and/or take part in a unity ceremony.
CAN WE ADD RELIGIOUS OR CULTURAL ELEMENTS?
Yes! I am more than happy to incorporate any family, cultural, or religious traditions you want to include.
DOES A WITNESS NEED TO BE PRESENT AT THE CEREMONY?
This depends on where you get married. Illinois and Indiana state marriage laws do not require that you have a witness. Michigan and Wisconsin require two adult witnesses (not including your officiant).
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD WE CONTACT YOU TO BOOK?
The earlier, the better. If possible, I want to allow plenty of time to get to know you both and outline and customize your wedding ceremony. The wedding season can also book up pretty fast, so it's better to get on my calendar earlier.
WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS ONCE WE CHOOSE TO HIRE YOU?
I'll ask for some basic information to help me create a contract and secure the date and time. A $250 deposit is required at booking. Once I've received your deposit and the signed contract, I'll have you fill out a questionnaire to help guide me in writing your wedding ceremony. Using the questionnaire and notes from our conversations and meetings, I'll get to work on designing the perfect ceremony.