Can we apply for our marriage license in a different county from where our ceremony will take place?
Yes, you can get a marriage license in one county and get married in another county as long as the marriage license was issued in the state of California.

Does a California marriage license expire?
Yes, a California marriage license is only valid for 90 days from the date it is issued. You must be married within this 90-day window for the marriage to be legally binding. If you do not marry within 90 days, the license expires, and you will need to obtain a new one.

How long is a typical ceremony?
On average, most of my wedding ceremonies are scheduled for 20 to 25 minutes. While the exact time depends on the inclusion of elements like special readings or rituals, this range is typically perfect for a ceremony that is both heartfelt and engaging without dragging on.

Will we be able to review the ceremony script before the wedding?
Absolutely! I'll send you a complete draft of the ceremony script well in advance. You're welcome to review it and suggest any changes, additions, or deletions you'd like. This is your ceremony, and I want it to be perfect for you.

What happens if I you have an emergency and can not officiate our wedding?
In the unlikely event that an emergency prevents me from officiating your wedding, please know that I will never leave you hanging. I am part of a wonderful, supportive community of Wedding Officants, and I will work immediately with my professional network to secure a qualified replacement for your ceremony.

What is a Life-Cycle Celebrant?
As a Life-Cycle Celebrant, I am trained in the art of ceremony. I am part of a diverse and inclusive community that embraces everyone, without exception. I have a unique ability to engage in constructive dialogue with people of all faiths and beliefs, tailoring ceremonies to perfectly align with their values and convictions. My personal beliefs are completely separate from this process. I create personalized ceremonies that commemorate significant milestones in a person's life, ranging from joyous occasions like weddings and baby blessings to times of sorrow like funerals and breakups.

What is the role of a wedding officiant?
A wedding officiant fulfills the critical role of legalizing a marriage. This involves signing your marriage license, signifying their legal authority to perform the marriage within the State of California. As a wedding officiant, I’m also responsible for crafting and conducting the wedding ceremony itself.

​Can I legally marry people?
Yes, I can legally marry people. I am an ordained Non-Denominational and Interfaith Minister through the Universal Brotherhood Movement. I also have training from the Celebrant Foundation & Institute. I am legally authorized to perform marriages for couples in the State of California.

Can we write our own vows?
Absolutely! Crafting your own marriage vows offers a unique opportunity to personalize the ceremony and express your love directly to your partner in your own words. There is considerable flexibility in this regard. You may choose to write your vows collaboratively or individually, and you have the option of reading them from a card or having me provide gentle prompts. Whether you opt for traditional or unconventional vows, the approach is entirely at your discretion. I would be delighted to email you sample vows to help you get started.

Do you perform same sex weddings?
Yes, I wholeheartedly embrace the celebration of love in all its forms. I firmly believe that all consenting adults, regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religious background, deserve a heartfelt and meaningful wedding ceremony.

Do you stay for the reception?
It’s rare for me to stay for the reception. After your witness(es) have signed your marriage license and we take a photo together after the ceremony, I make a quiet exit. You’re never obligated to invite me to the reception nor do I expect an invitation.

What do you wear when you perform a wedding ceremony?
I usually wear a black or neutral dress. If you'd prefer a different color, please let me know and I'll do my best to accommodate your request.

Who signs our marriage license?
The signatures required depend on the specific type of license you’ve applied for.

Public Marriage License: This is the most common license. It requires at least one witness to be present at the ceremony and to sign the license though you have the option to have two witnesses sign. Once your license is filed, it becomes a public record.

Confidential Marriage License: Available to couples who already live together, this option requires no witnesses to attend or sign. This record remains private, and only the couple may request copies.

Regardless of the type of license you choose, as your Officiant, I will sign, and process the paperwork on your behalf.