Chanhda and Cuong
August 9, 2008
Saco, Maine
In which towns can you perform Marriage Ceremonies?
I am commissioned in New Hampshire. I can perform a Ceremony anywhere in the State. I can also perform marriages in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Vermont.
Where do couples have their Ceremonies?
The possibilities are endless.
Much depends on what you want to do or how you have budgeted for your Wedding. Do not get confused about what is important. What you spend is not as important as what you feel. When two people make a committment to each other--That is the heart of the matter.
That is what I capture in the Ceremony. The location, the flowers, the music can be beautiful, but nothing is as beautiful as the exchange of your mutual Vows to each other.
What are the possibilities?
Couples have exchanged their Vows to each other almost everywhere imaginable. They have been dressed formally; dressed casually; tuxedo and gown; shorts and Hawaiian Leis; kilts... It is less about what you wear and more about what you are to each other.
We have conducted Ceremonies inside and out.
We have have groups as small as three (a Bride, a Groom and me!)
...the Bride, the Groom and their children...
...or groups over two hundred.
Locations have been just as varied--formal and intimate. Click on 'Venues' to see the locations where I have officiated.
Are you willing to meet with couples before they decide?
It is not just that I am willing to meet with you, I strongly suggest it!
You would not rent a hall without seeing it!
When we meet, you can decide if you are comfortable with my style.
It allows me to share ideas with you--how you want to do your Vows; ideas on readings; a chance to see some Ceremonies I have performed.
You can tell me what you are looking for or what you need help with.
We can meet at my home, your home or someplace comfortably in between. I have met couples in Nashua, Manchester, Concord, Boston. Many a wonderful Wedding Ceremony began over a pint of IPA at Marhta's Exchange in Nashua, a cup of coffee at Barnes and Nobles in Manchester, a breakfast at Country Side Grill in Concord, or a glass of wine at the Common Man in Windham or Ashland.
Rehearsals?
Not every couple plans to have a rehearsal.
They are a good idea if there will be attendants or others who will particiapte in the Ceremony.
If I officaite at your Ceremony, I plan to attend the rehearsal. It is something you would expect. There is no additional fee.
Can Parents, Children or Family particpate in the Ceremony?
It is your Ceremony. It is shared with and involves the people you love. There are so many ways for your Parents or your Children to 'give their blessing' to your Marrriage. I would be happy to suggest some creative and meaningful ways to make those you love part of your Ceremony.
Restrictions?
A neighbor told me that a her daughter's Wedding, the Minister told them there would be no photography during the Ceremony. That shocked and surprised me.
It is your Ceremony. It is you who ultimately decide what you want. The only restrictions I adhere to are both simple and would pose no problem to most couples: Nothing illegal. Nothing in poor taste.
Readings and Ceremony Content?
I can help you find some beautify material for your Wedding Ceremony. There is a world of power imagery available. The absence of a Church or Synagague does not mean it will not have rich content and powerful expression.
Poets and writers of all cultures -- Whitman, Frost, Rumi. Atwood, Carlos Williams, Glück-- have captured the Spirit you feel in your relationship. Two of the most memorable poems used in ceremonies that I have performed were written by the Brides (Lisa--August 9, 2003 and by and Lin--June 4, 2006!).
After the exchange of Vows and Exchange of Rings, there are many memorable rituals that can be considered--Wine, Candles, Honey, Sand, planting a Rose bush or a tree that will grow as your Marriage grows, releasing doves, releasing butterflies... If you can imagine it, I can write it into your Ceremony.
I can help you find the expressions for the love you feel. We have a lot to talk about...
Wedding Ceremonies performed in New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Vermont