Weddings
… are at our core.
We specialize in personalized ceremonies, and serve many couples planning a natural and/or outdoor wedding.
When customizing ceremonies, we respect the balance required to honor your values and vision, while considering the needs and expectations of family and guests. When you’re not sure, we offer suggestions for your consideration.
Many of our wedding clients choose to include elements such as:
a customized welcome, incorporating the significance of the date and/or venue, as well as acknowledging the presence (in spirit) of loved ones unable to be present, as well as those who have passed away;
the couple’s love story, which gives meaning and context to the wedding moment;
a chosen, customized unity ritual, such as a handfasting. There are many rituals to consider, and Martha can help with choices;
rituals or other elements, such as music, poetry or readings, that suit the couple’s backgrounds or sensibilities;
customized ring exchange vows, reflecting the couple’s values.
beyond weddings…
Whether you seek a legal marriage, a ceremonial union, a renewal of vows, or the honoring of a milestone anniversary, we bring care and attention to every detail of your ceremony, guided by the overall feel and tone that reflects your style. We are honored to serve as your officiant as well as your guide and support through the ceremony creation process.
the process
Crafting your ceremony springs from the results of “homework” Martha gives to you, to which you should plan on devoting several hours. A number of questions invite you to thoughtfully consider key things about yourself, both individually and as a couple. What does it mean to you to be getting married? What style and tone is most “you”? What is most important to you in life? Do you have any religious or spiritual beliefs that you want expressed in your ceremony? Whatever they may be; however clear or muddled, we help you find the right words, as they relate to the meaning of your marriage. What’s more, the process of simply considering these questions adds richness and depth to your journey as a couple.
LISTENING
Over a period of about four weeks, Martha gets to know you as she writes and develops your ceremony. With each couple, as we work together, your ceremony gradually gets fuller and rounder. We move from a skeletal ceremonial structure filled with questions and possibilities, to a first draft, to a revised draft, and finally (not until you say so!), a finished written ceremony. You see and approve not only every word to be spoken, but also all the music cues and “choreography” of participants.
welcoming ALL IDENTITIES
Our services are diversity-affirming. Martha is a member of the queer community and honors and celebrates LGBTQ lives and unions. We welcome and seek fullest inclusion not only of various beliefs, but of all races, abilities, ages, cultures, ethnicities, and sometimes even species (think: canine ring-bearers!) that comprise your beloved circle. Ceremonial language, ritual actions, and multi-sensory elements are all incorporated with intention, welcome, and inclusion.
