Ceremonies by Dana

Valley Hospital hosts nuptials so bride's ailing mother can attend

2011-11-06T19:54:00.000-05:00

Just wonderful. Read the article that appeared on NorthJersey.com here.

October 29: Samantha & Michael @ the Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton

2011-10-30T12:48:00.001-04:00

A snowstorm in October = an interesting start to your wedding day. Despite the unusual wedding, Samantha and Michael had a wonderful wedding ceremony at the Upper Montclair Country Club in Clifton that balanced traditional Christian readings and personal touches and included two beautiful musical performances. They also included a ring warming before exchanging their ring vows; their maid of honor and best man held out the rings so their guests could bestow good wishes upon them and the couple. Congratulations and best wishes, and thanks again for choosing me to be your Celebrant!

October 28: Keely & Kevin @ The Grain House in Basking Ridge

2011-10-30T12:29:00.002-04:00

On Friday evening I had the pleasure of being Keely and Kevin's ceremony Celebrant at The Grain House Restaurant in Basking Ridge, NJ. Despite the chilly temperatures it was a beautiful outdoor ceremony overlooking the brook that flows behind the property. Their ceremony included a special shout-out to Keely's dad for setting them up on their first "date," a Wine and Chocolate Unity Ritual (they exchanged pieces of dark chocolate and washed down their treat with wine from a single goblet), and - my favorite ceremony element! - the exchanging of the sacred and timeless Pinky Swear before stating their vows to each other. It was a lighthearted, humorous, and touching ceremony. Congratulations and best wishes to you both!

A few photos, courtesy of Eric Milstein:

Summer & Early Autumn 2011

2011-10-30T12:06:00.004-04:00

I am waaaaaay behind on posts about summer and early autumn ceremonies. So without further adieu, belated congratulations and best wishes to the following couples:

* Lauren & Manny, married on June 25th at the Reception Center in Matawan! Highlight: Their wonderfully self-penned vows...humorous and poignant.

* Farah & John, married on July 1st at The Empire Club in Little Ferry! Highlight: Special messages of thanks shared with their parents during the ceremony.

* Larissa & Brian, married on July 8th at Avenue in Long Branch! Highlight: A specially-written sand ceremony that incorporated their soon-to-arrive daughter.

* Michelle & Jason, married on July 15th at the Valley Regency in Clifton! Highlight: A handfasting at the conclusion of their vows.

* Dana & Christian, married on July 31st at The Primavera Regency in Stirling! Highlight: A sand ceremony that described the blending of their unique personalities.

* Amy & Josh, married on August 26th at The Tides in North Haledon! Highlight: A uniquely personalized unity candle lighting that touched upon the blending of their lives and their families as well as acknowledged their past and present experiences and their hopes for the future.

* Corryn & Eric, married on August 28th at The Oyster Point Hotel in Red Bank! Highlight: A flower ceremony honoring their families, friends, and especially their grandparents. Another highlight: watching Hurricane Irene roll in over the Navesink River.

* Stephanie & Dan, married on September 10th at Seasons in Washington Township! Highlight: Two thoughtfully selected readings that spotlighted significant events in their respective lives. Dan chose a Khalil Gibran passage while Stephanie selected an excerpt from Shel Silverstein's The Giving Tree. Another highlight: sharing the photo of Dan's marriage proposal while they were in Paris.

* Kelly & William, married on September 24th on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean in Spring Lake! Highlight: The lighthearted humor that was sprinkled throughout the ceremony. Oh, and Bill's mistakenly putting Kelly's wedding band on the wrong hand. :o)

* Jackie & Damian, married on September 24th at the Lakeside Manor in Hazlet! Highlights: A flower ceremony that honored their family and friends and the reading of a meaningful poem to each other before taking their vows.

* Jessica & Casey, married October 1st at the Inn at Millrace Pond in Hope! Highlight: An original poem penned and read to Jessica and Casey.

Super Ceremony Send-Offs

2011-06-22T13:57:00.000-04:00

Recently, I was asked by one of my couples to suggest alternative ideas for their ceremony send-off. They weren't keen on the idea of their guests throwing rice or rose petals at the closing of their wedding ceremony. They suggested releasing butterflies, but we discussed the possible negatives with that and came up with some other ideas. I figured I'd share some of the ideas we brainstormed and open the floor to other suggestions...please feel free to add to this list:

bubbles
confetti
kazoos
bells
party horns (or blowouts or other types of noisemakers)
dancing down the aisle after the wedding party has exited

Your turn!

June 4th: Jaimie & John at Ravello in East Hanover

2011-06-06T13:38:00.009-04:00

One of the perks of being a Celebrant is that you occasionally receive the honor of performing ceremonies for family and friends. My sister Jaimie and John's ceremony at Ravello included two poems that were read by family friends, a unity candle lighting, and a sand ceremony that symbolized the blending of their lives and the life of their soon-to-arrive son through the intermingling of three differently-colored vials of sand. Congratulations again, little sister and new brother-in-law. Best wishes always. I can't wait to meet my nephew!

May Ceremonies

2011-06-01T13:02:00.013-04:00

Here are highlights from my May ceremonies!

May 14th: Sally & Ryan at The Inn at Fernbrook Farms in Chesterfield
Sally and Ryan's intimate ceremony included a modified version of the traditional Jewish Blessing of the Wine and the exchanging of intention coins, onto which they bestowed wishes for their marriage before tossing the coins into the lovely reflection pond on the grounds of the ceremony site. Their ceremony ended with the Jewish tradition of Breaking the Glass, where the broken shards of glass represented the transformation from single individuals to married couple.

May 14th: Holly & Sinan at the Knights of Columbus in Bayonne
Holly and Sinan began their ceremony with touching Thank You messages to their parents and a Memorial Candle Lighting that honored their departed loved ones. They exchanged heartfelt self-penned vows and lit a unity candle to symbolize their new life together.

May 29th: Christina & Jerry at Seasons in Washington Township
Christina and Jerry had their dear friend Melissa read a poem during their ceremony and shared their humor, warmth, and love for each other and their family and friends through the telling of their story.

May 29th: Heather & Peter at Davis Johnson Park and Gardens in Tenafly
Heather and Peter's ceremony included a Memorial Candle Lighting that honored their departed loved ones, a poem read by their dear friend Brady, self-penned vows, and a beautiful modified version of a six cord handfasting ceremony. The violinists they hired provided the perfect "mood music" to accompany their unique ceremony.

Beyond the Unity Candle

2011-04-18T16:31:00.000-04:00

Here are some interesting alternatives to the Unity Candle ceremony, courtesy of Offbeat Bride (and featuring Celebrant Jessie Blum!):

From sand to science: 14 unity ceremonies to symbolize your new partnership

April 9th: Erika & Michael @ The Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture

2011-04-12T16:24:00.001-04:00

My favorite Celebrant perk: the ability to marry your friends. Congrats again to my dear friends Michael and Erika, married on April 9th at The Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture. Humorous anecdotes, a beautiful musical performance, and fabulous, self-penned vows were the highlights of their personalized ceremony. It was an honor and I love you guys!

Beware the Reverendzilla!

2011-04-06T15:53:00.001-04:00

Interesting piece by Patrick Huguenin, writer for the New York Daily News, about his search for a wedding officiant. I don't necessarily agree with his final assessment, but the overall idea of wanting someone who personalizes the ceremony by listening to the couple is something I appreciate seeing in a widely-distributed media outlet. Read the article here.

YES!

2011-02-23T18:59:00.000-05:00

Via The Huffington Post:

"In a major policy reversal, the Obama Administration said Wednesday it will no longer defend the constitutionality of a federal law banning recognition of same-sex marriage." Read the article.

Also read a list of reasons why this news is worth celebrating!

Why Marriage Matters...

2011-02-21T13:32:00.000-05:00

"Because marriage says 'we are family' in a way that no other word does."

Marriage Matters

Freedom to Marry

December 2010 and January 2011

2011-02-19T20:12:00.001-05:00

Wasn't it just November 2010? I guess this is what happens when you add a third child to the family... :o)

* Shakirah and Rich were married on New Year's Eve 2010 in a poolside ceremony (indoors, of course!) at the Holiday Inn Select in Clinton, NJ. Their ceremony included a reference to the movie Snakes on a Plane and a lovely sand ceremony (here's an example), and it ended with their jumping the broom (limited explanation here).

* Iris and James also were married on December 31, 2010, in a semi-surprise ceremony at Iris's sister's home in Montclair, NJ. Some of the guests knew about the ceremony and others did not, so I kind of crashed the party upon my arrival! With their closest family and friends in attendance, Iris and James exchanged their vows in front of a beautiful fireplace (James, if you're reading this, I realize you wanted Iris to be your wife, not your husband. :o). Iris's son read an excerpt from An Apache Blessing. The party returned to full-swing as the couple kissed.

* Tanja and Joe were married on January 16, 2011 at their gorgeous home in Wappingers Falls, NY. I was honored to officiate at this ceremony, as Tanja is a former colleague and a friend of mine. We convinced their family and friends to turn off the Jets game for a few minutes so they could exchange their vows. :o)

So what's next? Many, many ceremonies coming up in April and May!

October and November 2010

2010-11-15T10:14:00.004-05:00

* Ashley and Vern were married on October 25th, their ten-year anniversary, at Highlawn Pavilion in West Orange. With their closest family and friends in attendance, they exchanged vows and rings with the gorgeous fall foliage in the background. They also exchanged chocolates with each other as their unity ritual.

* Jaime and Robert were married on November 14th at The Bethwood in Totowa. Taking advantage of the gorgeous weather, they held their simple and sweet ceremony in the garden.

Congratulations and best wishes to both couples! :o)

July-September 2010

2010-11-15T09:54:00.005-05:00

As promised! A recap of the fun:

* April and Laurence were married on July 2nd in a garden ceremony at the Holiday Inn in Tinton Falls. It was a beautiful, sunny evening - the weather reflected the joy of the occasion!

* Mary and Sean were married on July 3rd at Nanina's in the Park in Belleville. Another sunny evening that mirrored the excitement and happiness of the event taking place.

* Julia and Robert were married on August 17th at Liberty House Restaurant in Jersey City. Despite the extremely hot, humid weather, the ceremony was wonderful - Julia and Robert had their closest family and friends in attendance to witness their intimate exchange of vows.

* Sarah and Andrew were married on August 28th at Liberty House Restaurant in Jersey City. The personal touches of their ceremony, including a poem read in honor of Sarah's mother, truly evoked who they are as individuals and as a couple.

* My husband and I welcomed Noah Louis, our third child, on September 22nd. He weighed an impressive 11 lbs. 8 oz. and was 21 in. tall. His big sisters Alyx and Leah were skeptical at first, but now they absolutely love their little brother. :o)

June 27th: Rachel & Russ in Belmar

2010-06-28T11:43:00.001-04:00

Rachel and Russ's international celebration began at The Barclay in Belmar - the bride and groom prepared for their big day with a gorgeous view of the Atlantic Ocean. Then it was onto the gazebo overlooking Silver Lake. During their warm and intimate ceremony, they shared the story of their meeting and engagement (which took place at the Statue of Liberty - fitting, since Rachel was preparing to move to the US from the UK), listened to their friend Jenny read a touching poem, and exchanged vows and rings while surrounded by close family and friends. Best wishes, Russ and Rachel, and thank you again for choosing me to help you celebrate your wedding day!

June 26th: Jamie & Chris @ Rockleigh Country Club

2010-06-27T09:38:00.000-04:00

Jamie and Chris were married at Rockleigh Country Club, and their lovely ceremony was a reflection of their personalities and backgrounds. It included a candlelighting in honor of their family and friends, a bread and wine exchange that celebrated their Italian and Jewish heritages, and a guitar solo by the bride's brother. Pre-ceremony, the couple signed their ketubah with their parents and wedding party in attendance. Congratulations to a wonderful couple - hope you enjoyed vacationing in Greece!

On Being Particular

2010-06-20T11:32:00.003-04:00

It is easy to let the other aspects of a wedding, civil union, or vow renewal "take over" and distract from the original intent - the mutual decision by the couple to irrevocably connect their lives. I absolutely love it when a couple has a specific vision for their ceremony and they maintain that focus throughout the collaborative process. Kudos to staying strong and staying the course!

June 5th: Laura & Glenn @ The Palace at Somerset Park

2010-06-07T10:16:00.003-04:00

Laura and Glenn were married Saturday evening at The Palace at Somerset Park. I had a fantastic time talking with their families pre-ceremony - what a wonderful group of people! The ceremony incorporated many personal touches, specifically the telling of their "meeting" story and the reading of the Celtic Wedding Blessing. Congratulations and best wishes, and thanks for choosing me to be a part of your special day.

May 30th: Kelly & Dan @ The Reception Center

2010-05-31T11:21:00.001-04:00

Hot, hot weather and a parade in downtown Matawan - what a day to get married! On Sunday, Kelly and Dan exchanged vows in a warm, lighthearted, and personalized ceremony attended by their closest friends and family at The Reception Center at St. Clement. I had a wonderful time hanging out with the bridal party before the ceremony. Congratulations and best wishes, Kelly and Dan, and thanks for choosing me to be a part of your day!

May 29th: Maria & Ralph in Bloomfield

2010-05-29T15:24:00.000-04:00

Maria and Ralph were married this morning in a simple ceremony in their living room. Two of their closest friends were there to help them celebrate. I had a blast taking photos of the bride and groom and all of the special touches they prepared for the big day - champagne, flowers, cake, etc. Congratulations!

May 15th: Kareen & Jeff @ The Manor

2010-05-17T15:14:00.004-04:00

Perfect weather, a beautiful location, and touching ceremony elements...congratulations again to Kareen and Jeff, married on May 15th at The Manor in West Orange. You are the first couple that specifically requested a quote from The Princess Bride. I'm glad I got through it without laughing!

April 24th: Catherine & Orlando @ The Imperia

2010-04-26T13:15:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Catherine and Orlando, married Friday evening at The Imperia in Somerset (formerly McAteers)! The bride, groom, and their families looked amazing. The weather was gorgeous, making it a lovely evening for an outdoor ceremony. One downside: there was a strong breeze, which made the family unity ritual - a sand ceremony - a bit messy. Catherine, Orlando, and their children took it in stride. Note to self: create alternatives for the sand ceremony on windy days. :o)

March 26th: Julie & Luis @ Liberty House Restaurant

2010-03-30T22:21:00.007-04:00

Gorgeous scenery, beautiful weather (albeit a bit chilly!), and a wonderful couple...it was a pleasure to officiate at Julie and Luis's ceremony on Friday, March 26th at the Liberty House Restaurant in Jersey City. Congrats again, guys! Here are some photos from the ceremony:

Photography: That Werks

And we're back!

2010-03-24T20:10:00.004-04:00

Has it really been four months? I got lost in a sea of holidays, family gatherings, and exciting news...but here it is, my first post of 2010.

I'm excited that my first wedding of the year will be this Friday, March 26th. Julie and Luis are a wonderful couple - so funny, outgoing, and warm - and I'm looking forward to what is guaranteed to be a memorable evening. Keeping my fingers crossed that the weather holds out for them. Also:

I am expecting my third child in late September! My husband, two daughters, and I couldn't be happier. According to my last doctor's visit, it's "highly likely" (I quote!) that this baby is a boy. So what does this mean for Ceremonies by Dana? I will be on maternity leave from September 1st through October 24th. I won't be booking any ceremonies between these dates; however, if I am available and able, I will be holding client meetings as requested.

November 8th: Lori and Natalie @ Oakeside Mansion

2009-11-08T14:25:00.007-05:00

Today I had the honor of performing a civil union ceremony for my friend Natalie and her fiancee, Lori. Natalie and I went to elementary and middle school together, and it was exciting to be a part of such an amazing day. Congrats and best wishes to you both, now and always! (Still wondering, though: who did you two pay off to get such awesome weather? Such an incredibly gorgeous November day!)

Ceremony
Photo: Dana Vitiello (via Facebook)

Celebrating the Day!
Photo: Tracie & Michael Guzman

The brides with my cousin, Tracie
Photo: Tracie & Michael Guzman

Love is beautiful!
Photo: Samantha Caravetta (via Facebook)

Autumn Harvest

2009-11-01T10:35:00.000-05:00

I realize we're deep into autumn, so most harvesting (and harvest festivals) in the northern hemisphere has been finished for some time. However, with Thanksgiving a week away and colorful leaves still marking my lawn, I'd like to share a link to an about.com article about Mabon, the Pagan/Wiccan celebration of the autumnal equinox: All About Mabon.

Many of the rituals associated with this mid-harvest festival would make beautiful additions to an autumn wedding ceremony. Guess I should start researching some ideas for winter solstice, too!

October 24th: Jill & Nate @ The Crossed Keys

2009-10-24T18:04:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Jill and Nate, married this afternoon at The Crossed Keys Inn in Andover, NJ. Despite the rainy weather, the afternoon was beautiful. Thanks again for choosing me to be a part of your special day, guys - it was an honor and a lot of fun working with you!

I'm on The Knot!

2009-10-24T10:22:00.003-04:00

Check out my profile:

Ceremonies by Dana ~ Celebrant Dana Zipkin

For my fellow DIY-ers!

2009-10-19T14:04:00.002-04:00

I just found this blog, courtesy of Wedding Channel.com. Lots of DIY projects...it's a wedding-themed blog, but the projects easily transfer to other ceremonies, special events, etc. Enjoy!

My DIY Wedding Day

One weekend, two weddings...

2009-10-18T19:23:00.002-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS to the following happy couples:

* Jeryl and Jay, married on October 17th in Totowa, NJ.

* Megan and Robert, married on October 18th in East Windsor, NJ.

It was an honor to be a part of your special day!

October is the new black...

2009-10-13T14:24:00.002-04:00

Seems like more couples are choosing to hold ceremonies in autumn, October to be specific. I'll be performing three ceremonies in the coming week. I'm already booked for two October 2010 ceremonies. If you want to have your ceremony on Sunday, 10.10.10, contact me ASAP. :o)

And now for something completely different...

2009-10-02T19:23:00.004-04:00

Forgive me for posting off-topic, but hey - it's about family! The Star Ledger/NJ.com profiled my cousin, the only female regularly officiating at high school football games in NJ. Check it out:

Female high school football referee Robin DeLorenzo finds acceptance in officiating fraternity

Proud of you, cousin!

Jennifer & Mark: September 19th @ the Russian Hall

2009-09-22T23:44:00.003-04:00

CONGRATULATIONS!

Photography by That Werks

Responsible Ceremony Planning

2009-09-17T16:12:00.005-04:00

Thanks to Time magazine:

In the September 21st edition, there is an article titled, "25 Responsibility Pioneers," in which Katie Fewings is profiled. She created the web site ethicalweddings.com along with her husband after their 2005 nuptials. The web site contains helpful information regarding eco-conscious vendors, venues, and more.

Autumn-inspired ceremony elements

2009-08-28T19:57:00.007-04:00

Quotes and poems, etc.
Research quotes and poems that can be referenced during your ceremony. An online search yielded several good sites with information, such as the following quotes from quotegarden.com:

Autumn is a second Spring when every leaf is a flower. ~ Albert Camus

To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with Spring. ~ George Santayana

Thanksgiving Ritual
As a sign of thanks for their presence in your lives, share one of the following seasonally-appropriate items with your guests, while your Celebrant or an honored reader explains the symbolism:

bread
candy corn
cider
grapes
wine

Leaves of Gratitude Ritual
Leave a pen/marker and a piece of paper in the shape of an autumn-themed object (think apples, pumpkins, etc.) at each seat. During an appropriate moment in the ceremony, ask each guest to write down a reason they're thankful for your presence in their life. At the conclusion of the ceremony, ask your guests to place the paper into a basket or similar container as they exit the ceremony space. When times are tough, you and your spouse can look back at your guests' expressions of gratitude.

Please feel free to comment, share your own ideas, and so on!

Amie & Larry's Wedding @ Stone House

2009-08-15T17:21:00.007-04:00

What a gorgeous (and HOT) day for an outdoor wedding at the Stone House at Stirling Ridge. Amie and Larry, CONGRATS!

Photos: That Werks Photography

Dreaming of snow in August...

2009-08-11T11:35:00.005-04:00

Thanks to the high temperatures and humidity we've been dealing with in NJ, here are some articles posted on Associated Content.com about winter weddings:

* Reasons to Have a Winter Wedding

* Eight Reasons to Have a Winter Wedding

* Winter Wedding Venues

* Outdoor Winter Wedding Tips (the article title claims these are tips for the bride...gentlemen, I have the utmost faith in your ability to handle this as well!)

* Creative Ideas for Planning a Winter Wedding

Quote of the Day

2009-08-03T22:09:00.003-04:00

I was reminded of this quote, from Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris, after my husband and I celebrated our 4th year of marriage - and over 10 years of being a couple - a few weeks back. I thought I'd post it since it's so funny:

"Hugh and I have been together for so long that in order to arouse extraordinary passion, we need to engage in physical combat. Once, he hit me on the back of the head with a broken wineglass, and I fell to the floor pretending to be unconscious. That was romantic, or would have been had he rushed to my side rather than stepping over my body to fetch the dustpan."

Wild Wedding Day Weather

2009-07-30T00:52:00.004-04:00

Something I learned today:

When a storm-related power outage strikes a home where a wedding is about to take place, light some candles and VOILA - ceremony by candlelight, with the sound of rain in the background. It creates romantic ambiance, and a much nicer memory than recalling how everyone stood around in a dark living room. :o)

Happiest. Processional. EVER.

2009-07-23T23:21:00.002-04:00

Thanks to my dear friend Cris for sharing this on Facebook...now, I share the joy with you!

JK Wedding Entrance Dance

If anyone wants me to perform a ceremony with a similar processional, just let me know. :o)

An Interesting Proposal

2009-07-18T21:41:00.003-04:00

This ran in the Star Ledger on April 12, 2008. To paraphrase a comment posted below the article, is this type of proposal the new baseball scoreboard? Enjoy!

Geek romance: Proposing marriage via video game

Local news

2009-07-18T21:35:00.003-04:00

An article from the Star Ledger on July 17th:

Effort to bar civil unions in Ocean Grove is rebuffed by appeals court

I promise I'll write back :o)

2009-07-15T09:47:00.002-04:00

Here's a link to an archived blog post about responding to emails. For me, it serves as a gentle reminder that email has become the equivalent of a phone message and that responding is expected and appreciated. Great to keep in mind on those days when Life doesn't give you a break!

Survey: Elements of Your Ceremony

2009-06-29T08:59:00.001-04:00

What ceremony elements would you never want included in your wedding, civil union, vow renewal, etc.? Comment and share!

I'll get the ball rolling:

* I had no desire to wear a veil. There are a variety of explanations on the history of the bridal veil's symbolism; my reasons for not wearing one will remain private, but you can read about the veil's historical and cultural significance here or here.

Not too shabby, right? :o)

* My husband Mark and I did not want "traditional" ceremony readings, so we choose poetry and prose pieces that reflected the vision we had for our marriage. We also asked close friends to read the selections for us.

OK, your turn!

Overheard...

2009-06-15T14:51:00.001-04:00

Earlier today I was running errands and I stopped to get an iced coffee. While waiting for my drink, my ears perked up when they heard the following:

"Well, the cake is only costing us $800. My friend paid almost $1600 for their wedding cake."

If I paid $800 for a cake, it had better clean my house and do my laundry, too. But I digress...the same person continued talking about her wedding, and shared this:

"I am definitely NOT paying more than $250 for an officiant."

I'd like to think my services are worth as least as much as a cake. Maybe I'm wrong, though...I didn't get to taste the $800 cake. :oP

Legally Hitched!

2009-06-02T13:33:00.001-04:00

Here are helpful links for residents of NJ and NY...all the info before you go!

* Getting married in New Jersey

* Applying for a marriage license or a civil union license in NJ

* Getting married in NY State

* Getting married in NYC

The Celebrant Ceremony - It's All About You

2009-05-19T15:18:00.001-04:00

Here are the three major ways a Celebrant ceremony stands apart from other ceremonies:

1.The entire writing process is a collaborative effort.
Simply put, nothing goes into the ceremony without my clients’ approval. Feedback is encouraged and strongly desired. I want the ceremony to reflect the personalities, backgrounds, interests, etc. of the couple. Throughout the writing process, I offer my expertise in ceremony structure, assist with research, and make suggestions. My clients give me the green light/red light on draft input and then I take it from there. There are never any ceremony-based surprises on the day of the event.

2. The ceremony is couple-centered.
Weddings and special events stir up strong emotions in many people. Of course, the people closest to a couple – family, friends, other loved ones – often mean well when sharing their thoughts about The Big Day, but this can often create tension. A Celebrant can offer you the assurance that only YOUR (and your significant other’s) opinion matters to him or her. The ceremony written by your Celebrant will reflect what the client wants, no matter who’s paying for the wedding. :o)

3. The couple’s personal story is included.
How you met, when you decided your significant other was The One, etc. The inclusion of the couple’s personal story is the hallmark of the Celebrant ceremony. Feel free to tell your Celebrant as much or as little as you’d like. You can include anecdotes – from your own experiences or from those of family and friends, share tangible memories (maybe a photo or memento?), express gratitude to the person who introduced you…the possibilities are only limited by your own comfort level. The more details your Celebrant receives, the more “you” the ceremony will be!

Graduation Day

2009-05-04T11:25:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was my official graduation from the Celebrant Foundation & Institute! I received my certification as a Life-Cycle Celebrant, specializing in weddings and other ceremonies for couples. Aside from the fantastic training I received (thanks to my teacher, Cristina Kollet!), I made some incredible friendships and met other Celebrants from throughout the USA and Canada. It was a wonderful day. Here are some pics:

Lovely view despite the weather; excited to be graduating!

Priya greets the Celebrants; Charlotte and Cindy begin the festivities.

A view of the graduates from both sides of the "stage."

Some of my fabulous Celebrant colleagues!

Iowa Court says Gay Marriage Ban is Unconstitutional

2009-04-03T11:54:00.002-04:00

Read the New York Times article by clicking below:

Iowa Court lifts ban on gay marriage

Spring Awakening!

2009-03-28T14:53:00.010-04:00

The weather has inspired me to clean house, literally and figuratively. One change: my blog layout. Hope you like it!

Nature exercises a powerful influence...all I need to do is think back to my college days and recall the times I skipped class! It's not hard, then, to understand why so many couples opt for a spring wedding ceremony. With that in mind, here are some ways to incorporate a spring and/or nature theme into your ceremony:

Have your ceremony in an outdoor setting. Local parks, wineries, etc. are wonderful places to investigate. My ceremony and reception were held at the Tomasello Winery in Hammonton, NJ.

Utilize natural elements in your ceremony rituals - water, flowers, plants, sand, stones, fire...the possibilities are limitless.

Choose poetry and prose pieces that include a nature theme.

If you choose to have a Celebrant ceremony, he or she will gladly research these and other options for you.

About Me and Ceremonies by Dana

2009-03-16T14:07:00.003-04:00

Celebrancy had been on my mind since July 2005. When planning our wedding, my husband and I knew a traditional ceremony wasn’t for us. Since we had diverse family backgrounds, we wanted a ceremony that would reflect upon our differences, illustrate how those differences blend and compliment each other, and express our personal tastes. Most importantly, we wanted a ceremony that would convey why we wanted to be together through the sharing of our personal love story. Happily, we found a Celebrant who made this a reality.

Our wedding day came and went, but my interest in Celebrancy remained. I had a wonderful career as a public school teacher for almost ten years. However, after the births of my two daughters, I decided to move in a new direction, one where I could be involved with those special moments that define peoples’ lives. I am now a certified Celebrant and an ordained interfaith minister; I received my diploma in Celebrancy from the Celebrant USA Foundation and Institute.

Celebrancy allows me to meet new people, research cultures and rituals, and collaboratively create customized ceremonies. Whether I am writing a ceremony for a wedding, a civil union, a vow renewal, or any similarly memorable event, it is always a privilege to work in partnership with people and share their unique stories. No other job could provide me with such fulfilling, enjoyable “work!”

It's ALIVE...my web site, that is.

2009-03-16T13:47:00.001-04:00

I'm very excited to announce the launch of my Celebrancy web site, Ceremonies by Dana.

Spread the word!