What is your fee?
My fee is $400 which covers getting together as often as the bride and groom
want, the premarital counseling sessions (if the couple so chooses), unlimited
access by phone or email, the rehearsal, and the wedding itself. I also mail or
hand deliver the completed marriage license to the county registrar.
Tell us more about the premarital counseling sessions?
This is optional, of course, but most couples I do weddings for take advantage of premarital counseling. While couples are very busy getting ready for their special day, I also want to help couples understand what makes for a healthy relationship in their lifelong commitment to one another. I use materials called Prepare which millions of couples around the country have taken. Prepare helps to measure relationship strengths and growth areas. Of all the couples who have taken Prepare, every one said they gained from the experience.
Do the premarital counseling sessions cost extra?
No. I believe so much in preparing the couple for their married life together that I do not charge extra for premarital counseling. In a way, it is my gift to you.
There is a $30 processing fee which is paid when accessing the Prepare inventory online.
How often would we need to get together?
As often as you would like. Planning the ceremony usually takes 1-2 sessions. Premarital counseling usually takes 1 – 2 sessions.
We live out of the area and can make it to the Central Coast only a limited number
of times before the wedding. How would we make that work?
This is a common occurrence. Whatever works best for you works best for me.
For those sessions when we can get together, we can double up on the time. We
can also dialogue as much as possible via email or text or skype.
We have some special requests for our ceremony. Is that okay?
Of course. I would be happy to accommodate your requests and needs as much as possible.
Where do we get the marriage license?
You can get the marriage license from the San Luis Obispo county recorder’s office or, if you live outside of the county, from your own county recorder’s office, whichever is most convenient. Go to their website so you will know what you will need to bring in to apply for the marriage license.
What are your qualifications as a wedding officiant and counselor?
I have been a pastor in the Lutheran church for over 30 years and have officiated at hundreds of weddings. I am also licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist (lic# MFC51798).
