Which lifetime would you like to know about!?
Many of my couples want to know more about me and how my background informs my work. While I truly believe that your ceremony should reflect you, and you alone, it’s a valid question!
The short story?
After spending a decade in the fashion biz, I started one of NJ’s most inventive catering companies. In mid career as a chef, I returned to Union Theological Seminary in New York, and then Celebrant USA to explore the possibilities open to couples planning their unconventional weddings. My weddings (no, wait, they aren’t MY weddings; they’re YOUR weddings!) are funny, moving, and personal, incorporating your favorite readings, music, friends….and even your dogs. Do we need a new and unique ritual to celebrate your individual story? Let’s create it! My couples have included everything from Sushi Sharings to Tequila Toasts! (And if you need the perfect chocolate mousse recipe, I’ve got you covered!)
A bit more detail?
I bring a unique blend of talents and resources to my work as a New Jersey / New York wedding pastor and wedding officiant.
As a caterer and event planner, I helped to orchestrate many weddings and celebrations in both New Jersey and New York. As a wedding pastor and motivational speaker, I create an atmosphere of excitement, of introspection and discovery. As a writer, I draw on a rich variety of traditional and contemporary resources, blending the inspiring and the significant with the humorous and offbeat. Those talents beautifully mix with your ideas for the wedding ceremony or civil union that truly expresses you, as individuals and as a couple.
I was raised Unitarian Universalist, in Ridgewood, NJ, and did my Masters at Union Theological Seminary in New York City. I was part of the pastoral staff for a wonderful UCC church in Westchester for many years and went on to the Celebrant USA Foundation, in Montclair, New Jersey. I am ordained as a non-denominational wedding pastor, so as a wedding officiant my ceremonies are legal in New York State, New York City, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and in all states. I welcome all couples in every combination.
My experience is wide and wild, but I have no agenda for my couples. Your wedding ceremony is about you; my background simply allows me to find the words, rituals and music that will express you in a way that is joyful and authentic. You will find that our work together will be fun, funny, and flexible, and your wishes for ethic, spiritual and religious traditions are addressed with grace and hospitality. As a wedding pastor and celebrant, my aim is to delight and surprise; to act as the catalyst between you, your unique story, and your guests; to mark the joyous start of your new life together and have that joy renew the lives of the people who share your wedding day.
I have the best job on the planet! I am a wedding minister and officiant. I have the privilege of helping my couples to express themselves in ways that are truly meaningful to their families and friends to make their wedding day a celebration of their unique journey and the future that awaits.
Enough about me, tell me about YOU.