Frequently asked questions
It all began with a simple idea fueled by a deep passion. As a small business, Rebekah prides herself on personal attention and dedication to every detail. Her approach is rooted in quality and integrity, ensuring that everything she does reflects her commitment to excellence.
What attire do you wear to match our aesthetic?
I will wear my ministry robe and scarf for the ceremony.
What are your total fees, deposit requirements and refund policies?
My starting rate for officiating weddings starts at $300. If traveling/ lodging is involved for a wedding, additional fees will be added. There is a $100 deposit fee due to secure your wedding date. The deposit is non-refundable. A vendor agreement contract will be provided if the couple decides to acquire my services.
Are you legally ordained to perform wedding ceremonies in the state and or country?
Yes! I am legally ordained through Universal Life Church. I can officiate weddings throughout upstate New York, but not in the city. To perform weddings in NYC requires more certifications. I do have my certificate and letter of good standing for proof upon request.
How and when do you handle the marriage license filing after the ceremony?
Filing for the marriage license can be done in two ways. You can turn it into the town clerk where the wedding will be residing or I can take care of the document myself. But please keep in mind, it is the couples responsibility to obtain the license themselves. Ministers, clergies and/ or priests CANNOT get the license for you. As for when I will turn it in, New York state has made it mandatory that the officiant has up to 5 days after the ceremony has taken place to turn in the license. If that deadline is not met, the marriage will not be recgonized by the state as legal. Therefore, I will turn in (or mail it) the license within the next 48 hours after the ceremony.
Can you accommodate multi-faith, secular or same-sex ceremonies?
Yes, I can. By being recgonized by Universal Life Church, I can perform different ceremonies based on religion, culture and all different life-style beliefs. This is your wedding ceremony and you should choose how you want it!
Do you have a custom script or use a standard template?
I can do both. I can write the vows for you or you can write your own. If you need guidance or suggestions for your vows, please do not hesitate to contact me. I will help you!
Can we review and approve the script before the wedding day?
Of course! That is part of this process. I prefer the couple to look over the script and add any final touches that are requested. I want the ceremony to run smoothly. I can e-mail a rough draft to you and you can tell me what you like and don't like. It all comes down to what reflects you as a couple.
Do you allow us to write our own vows or include unity rituals like sand or candles?
Absolutely! I can accommodate personal vows and any unity ritual. I am more than happy to!
How long does your typical ceremony last?
On average, about 20 minutes. But if you want a certain time frame, we can work out the details together.
Are you available for the wedding rehearsal, and is it included in the fee?
Yes, I am available for wedding rehearsals and it is included in the fee.
How early do you arrive at the venue on the wedding day?
I usually like to arrive about 30 minutes before to make sure the ceremony is in place. If I am needed to arrive earlier, please let me know.
Do you require any pre-marital counseling sessions?
This is not necessary, but can be done if the couple wishes to do so.
What is your back-up plan if you fall ill or face an emergency?
If either situation arises, the couple will be contacted immediatley. I can email the finalized script to either the bride or groom. I will also help find available fellow officiants who are local in the area to perform the ceremony. If that falls through, a willing wedding guest or member of the family can be quickly ordained online and do the legal paperwork later. But this should be extremely rare that this ever happens.
What is required from the bride and groom to get married?
I will ask proof of identification to be sure that both persons to be married are of age. If the age is 17, I will need parental consent for the marriage to be legal. If you are under seventeen, by law, I can not perform a marriage ceremony.
Beyond the ordinary
This is where our journey begins. Get to know my business and what I do, and how I am committed to quality and great service. Join me as we grow and succeed together. I am glad you're here to be a part of our story.