“You were born to do this.” That’s what my Dad says whenever he sees a picture of me officiating a wedding or listens as I recount the love story of one of my couples. And thanks to the generosity of my couples, my father’s whole-hearted enthusiasm about my work as a celebrant seems a little less biased now. I am thrilled to be selected as The Knot Best Of Weddings 2014 Pick. This “Best Pick” distinction is awarded to the top 1% of the wedding industry based on the quality and quantity of the reviews collected over the course of a year. So, yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.
As a celebrant, I’ve found myself performing wedding ceremonies in every kind of place–From cliff-top intimate elopements on my property in Pennsylvania, to being perched on a ledge on the side of a waterfall, many times I’ve basked in the down home warmth of gatherings at romantic barns and family farms, and there’s always an electric thrill that comes from being in a sophisticated design-focused big city event space.
This year I’ve married a lot of people (to each other of course) and while the scenery, venue and celebration details vary dramatically from couple to couple, one thing has been consistent, every one of my couples was beautifully in love, had very human hopes for their future together and wanted their personal story (and family relationships) to be the centerpiece of their wedding.
So I would like to formally say “thank you” to all of my couples who took the time to post a review about their experience working with me to create their ceremony. Thank you, it’s been an absolute pleasure. And even though I feel privileged to receive this accolade, the real honor for me, is that you invited me to play a part in your amazing love stories and that I got/get to be there.
Here are some my favorite highlights from this year.
Both of Raha’s parents have the honor of bringing her down the aisle. Mann Center For The Performing Arts, Philadelphia. Kahl Weddings Photography
Julia and Jason, I didn’t need to ask her twice if they’d rather hold hands during their ceremony. Faith West Photography
Sometimes the glass doesn’t break. One shot of a hilarious series captured by A Click Photography
Karissa and Robbie are bound together. Kristen Rath Photography
Lee Ann and Steven, in love since the 6th grade. Douglas James Photography
Cori and Todd are the first to include my Seven Steps Into The Sunset, seven modern blessings as they take their first seven steps together as a married couple. Two Sticks Studios
Their family and friends loved showering Cori + Todd with their love and support. Two Sticks Studio
I got to have my boobs duct-taped and hang out with some giants in the wedding industry. Here’s Alisa Tongg (center) with the Gifts For The Good Life team, Heather Arak (left) and Susan Turnock (right).
Maria and Shawn seal it with a kiss at the Cork Factory Hotel. Tennison Photography
Everyone is about to find out that Shawn’s moves like Mick Jagger run in the family. Tennison Photography
My sister married her sweetheart Sue in a gorgeous sunset wedding on the north shore of Maui, where we grew up. Kaua Wedding Photography.
“I love that he accepts me for who I am, but yet makes me want to be a better person every day.”—Erin about what she loves about Shane.
