I am happy to meet with couples in my home office, at no cost or obligation, to see if we are a "good fit".  This meeting generally lasts 30 minutes as we ask each other questions. 

Yes, when you hire me, we will meet to go over the details of your ceremony.  I will ask that you sign the minister's contract and pay a $140.00 non-refundable retainer.  The balance is due two weeks prior to the ceremony.

According to your needs, wishes and desires, I can work with you to prepare a custom ceremony, conduct the rehearsal, perform the ceremony, and file your marriage license.  My fee varies, depending upon the location and other specifics of your wedding. 

No.  Every ceremony is unique, just as every couple is unique.  I will not include anything that you are not comfortable with.  I am very comfortable officiating civil ceremonies. 

You certainly may and I strongly encourage your advanced review.  I want to make sure it is perfect for you.  Any changes are cheerfully made without any additional cost. 

Yes!

That is totally up to you.  Often the bride and groom have a family member or friend who would be honored to help you rehearse your special day. 

We practice the moments in the ceremony that require movement:  The procession,  the hand off of the bouquet, exchange of rings, any special ceremonies (wine, handfasting, candle lighting, family blending, etc...) and the recessional.  Rehearsing these moments will help to minimize wedding day nerves and any anxious moments during the ceremony.   

Although I appreciate your hospitality, I do not stay for the reception. 

I can work with you!  When couples wish to marry in Vermont, I work with Vermont's Reverend Susan Freeman.  Together we work to create a ceremony that meets your vision.  There is no additional cost to you for Reverend Freeman's assistance.

A couple who intends to be married in New York State must apply in person for a marriage license to any town or city clerk in the state.  The application for a license must be signed by both the bride and the groom in the presence of the clerk.  A representative cannot apply for the license on behalf of the bride or groom. 

In Vermont State, the law allows for only one member of the couple to apply for the marriage license, but most town clerks prefer to see both of you.  If you reside in Vermont, you need to apply to the town clerk's office where you live.  If each of you reside in different Vermont towns, you may apply at either town clerk's office.  If you do not reside in Vermont, but wish to marry in Vermont, you may apply for your marriage license at any Vermont town clerk's office. 

In New York State, the waiting period is 24 hours.  However, exceptions are possible through the county or family courts' systems. 

In Vermont State, there is no waiting period.  However, if you are marrying immediately after a dissolution of a civil union or marriage, you may not marry until the day after the legal dissolution.

In New York, a marriage license is valid for 60 days, beginning the day after it is issued. 

In Vermont State, a marriage license is valid for 60 days from the day it is issued. 

In New York State, outside of New York City, the cost is $40.00.  This fee includes the issuance of a Certificate of Marriage Registration.  Your Certificate of Marriage Registration is sent to you, by the issuing clerk, within 15 days after the completed license is returned by the officiant.  This is your legal proof that your marriage has been recorded by the state.  If you do not receive your Certificate of Marriage Registration within four weeks of the wedding, you should contact the town or city clerk who issued the license. 

In Vermont State, the cost is $23.00.  A certified copy is an additional $10.00 for a total of $33.00.  You may order your certified copy at the time you apply for your marriage license.

I do.  I am honored to assist with renewal of vows, baby blessings, baby namings, and blessings, among other special ceremonies.  I also offer hospital and nursing home visits.  You can find more information here. 

My value is that "love is love" and deserves celebration.  I am honored to officiate at commitment ceremonies that celebrate a couple's history and publicly recognizes an on-going commitment to each other. 

I do and please join us.  Some would call it a "Home Church".  We meet monthly.  Please contact me at 518-686-0105 for additional details. 

We sit together in my home office, drink coffee or tea and eat lemon bars.  Actually, that is partly true.  We also discuss our spiritual needs and how we can work to meet those needs as a community and as individuals.  If you read Loss during the Holidays,  you will have a good sense of the type of conversations we engage in.  There are no requests for financial support of any kind.  We just talk, in a small group.  Again, please feel free to join us. 

Please do not worry about this at all.  I do not have that expectation, nor will I even mention my congregation to you, unless you ask.