Every single couple has a unique love story, and when you choose to get married in Napa or Sonoma, your surroundings become a beautiful part of that narrative. My absolute favorite part of being an officiant? Bringing the richness, humor, and depth of your story to life during your ceremony.

It’s about much more than just the "I dos." It's about setting the stage, engaging your guests, and making the 20–30 minutes you stand at the altar feel profoundly personal and meaningful. Here is a look behind the scenes at my process for crafting a truly personalized ceremony:

1. The Deep Dive: Starting with Your Story

Before I write a single word, I need to know you. I don't rely on generic scripts; I rely on your beautiful, messy, and real relationship.

The Personalized Questionnaire: I will send you a short, fun, and thought-provoking questionnaire. This isn't homework; it's a treasure map! I ask about the little things: How you met, funny moments, favorite shared activities, and what you respect and love most about your partner.
Optional Confidential Input: Sometimes, the most heartwarming details come from asking each of you to answer a few questions about the other person secretly. This allows me to incorporate genuinely surprising and touching insights into the final script. This material is gold for making the ceremony pop!

2. Finding the Emotional Thread (The Ceremony's DNA)

Once I have your stories, I look for the core theme—the emotional thread—that defines your relationship. This thread becomes the "DNA" of your ceremony and guides every word, reading, and transition.

Playful & Humorous: If your story is full of inside jokes and lighthearted banter, the ceremony will feel vibrant and full of laughter, focusing on joy and friendship.
Romantic & Sentimental: If your journey has been defined by long-distance commitments or deep devotion, the ceremony will focus on patience, destiny, and the power of enduring love.
Adventurous & Growth-Focused: If you've traveled the world or pushed each other outside your comfort zones, the ceremony will highlight partnership, resilience, and the excitement of a shared future.

3. Writing It in Your Natural Voice

The goal is to have your guests—and more importantly, you—say, "That sounds exactly like us."

Authenticity First: Your ceremony should sound like you, not like a generic script from the internet. I ensure the language, pace, and vocabulary feel authentic and relatable to your personalities. If you're laid-back, the tone will be relaxed. If you're poetic, the language will elevate.
Weaving the Narrative: I strategically place moments from your story throughout the ceremony. For example, a funny anecdote about your first date might lighten the mood just before a serious commitment reading, ensuring the emotional pacing is perfect.

4. The Result? Effortless Magic and Guest Connection

When your story is told perfectly, the impact is immense—not just for you, but for everyone witnessing your commitment.

Profound Connection: By sharing the genuine moments of your journey, your guests feel deeply invested. They laugh at the jokes, understand the significance of your location (like choosing a certain vineyard), and feel like they are truly part of your celebration, not just observing it.
A Stress-Free Experience: The ceremony becomes an easy, beautiful moment you can simply relax into. All you have to worry about is breathing, making eye contact, and enjoying the magic, knowing your love, your life, and your story are being told perfectly.

Your ceremony should be the highlight of your wedding day—a celebration crafted just for you.

I would be thrilled to discuss how I can craft a personalized ceremony that is truly unique to you.