F.A.Q.'s
Photo courtesy Studio 6.23
*Where are you located?
I am in Kalamazoo, and also perform weddings in Battle Creek, Grand Rapids, the South Haven/Lakeshore and all surrounding areas of those locations, as well as NW Indiana.
*Are you willing to perform a ceremony at a non-religious site?
Yes, and usually do: country clubs, parks, beaches, golf courses, and family homes and gardens, to name a few.
*Are you flexible in the wording used throughout the ceremony including the vows?
Absolutely. The couple can not only change wording, but can change the order of the ceremony. I am only there to counsel and recommend choices they make.
*Do you allow the couple to write their own vows, if desired?
They may certainly write their own, or they could choose from my collection of "repeat after me" or "I do" vows or use a part of different vows to create a new one. They do not have to choose only from those vows.
*Do you have a list of readings pre-selected, from which the couple must choose?
Though I have a collection of readings, the couple may choose one they found on their own.
*Do you require that pre-maritial counseling be done?
My wedding services do not require pre-counseling, just a firm desire by both to add a more spiritual and well considered element to their relationship. However, should you wish to include that, it is available for an additional fee.
*Are you willing to perform pre-ceremony rehearsals?
Rehearsals are included in the Platinum package. I offer a rehearsal guide for Gold packages.
*How far are you willing to travel? Is there a travel fee?
I will travel where you need me, however, I would require extra for destination weddings. I only charge mileage beyond 50 miles (100 miles round trip), except for elopements (see pricing).
*How do you dress?
I ask the couple ahead of time to choose from casual attire, simple dress/suit, or my ministerial robe with wedding stole.
*How much do you charge?
I have numerous packages and my prices range from $75 - $425.
*In which states and communities are you licensed to officiate ceremonies?
I can perform weddings in any state, but concentrate on SW Michigan and NW Indiana.
*Can we read or hear your ceremony before our wedding day?
Absolutely.
*Do you have a back up officiant on call, in case of an emergency?
I do.
*Do you normally attend the reception or rehearsal dinner?
I do not, but if you want me to give a blessing of the meal I will stay for that, time permitting.
*How long does the ceremony usually last?
Approximately 15-25 minutes on average.
*What is your event cancellation policy?
If your ceremony is cancelled, and less than 30 days notice is given, the balance of the account will be due and payable to compensate for work “With This Ring” would otherwise have obtained.
*What is your customer satisfication cancellation policy?
“With This Ring” will not refund deposits; however, will transfer the deposit to a new wedding date if given at least 90 days notice. I stand behind my work, and would be willing to discuss any dissatisfaction with the terms of the agreement.
*What are your standard payment terms?
An initial, non-refundable retainer of $75.00 is due upon signing your contract; and the remainder is due two weeks prior to the ceremony (except for elopements). Elopements will pay remainder at ceremony and no personal checks will be accepted at that time. If a personal check is returned for non-sufficient funds, the check amount and any fees incurred by Rev. Burn's bank will be payable in a money order or cash before the ceremony takes place. A signed copy of the contract and accompanying retainer must be received before “With This Ring” will place your ceremony on the calendar books or perform any above services. Payments may now be made by check, cash, money order, by credit card, or by PayPal or Square Up Market via the "Payments" page of this website.
*What makes you different from other local wedding officiants? Why should someone hire you?
I strive to know each couple and create a ceremony that is unique to them. I am patient, flexible, and non-judgemental. I will not try to "direct" you or your decisions. I feel my responsibility is to recommend and inspire choices that you make so your wedding is a reflection of you as a couple.
*Will you marry couples of different faiths or previous divorce?
Of course. Also, we do not discriminate against any couples based upon their color, race, or sexual preference.
*What documents do I need to bring to our first meeting?
Just the two of you. If you have any pictures of the venue (where the ceremony will take place) or special readings you want included, you can bring those; but I will not need them until later.
*Do you allow pictures or video during the ceremony?
Absolutely!
*Who buys the license, the minister or the couple?
The couple buys the license ahead of time, through the County Court House. You can apply online now at most offices, but must pick up the license in person. The license is generally good for 30 days, and there is a 3 day waiting period in Michigan. Some counties will waive the 3 day wait for an additional fee or a notarized letter from your officiant. Residents of MI apply in their county of residence. If neither the bride or groom are Michigan residents, you must get the license in the county you intend to marry in. At the time of the wedding, the officiant (minister), couple and two witnesses (over 18) sign it and Officiant files the documents.
*How long after the ceremony do you file the official marriage license?
I usually have that accomplished by the next business day.
*Which sides do the bride and groom, stand on?
When coming down the aisle, the bride moves to the left and the groom to the right. When facing the guests, the groom will be waiting on the minister's left side.
*How do you suggest including our children into the ceremony?
There are many ceremonies for including children. Here are three examples. The first is the 'family promises' where the new parent agrees to accept the children, the children agree to accept the new parent and the established parent agrees to support the relationships. Also included is a segment for the children of each to agree to accept each other. A ring or necklace ceremony can be incorporated here.
The second ceremony is called the 'ribbon ceremony'; it's done just before the pronouncement. Each child of the bride or groom approaches the couple and loosely binds their clasped hands together at the wrist to symbolize their support of the union.
The children can also become part of the Sand unity ceremony; having their own color sand to blend with the parents' sand.
*The person who officiates at weddings may also be called: minister, officiant, wedding officiant, wedding minister, wedding officiator, marriage officiator, marriage minister, marriage officiant, marriage official, wedding clergy, marriage clergy, wedding celebrant, marriage celebrant, wedding officiate, Justice of the Peace, JP, pastor, civil officiant, and reverend.
