June 2nd, 2005
Frequently Asked Questions
I invite you to call or email me to discuss your wedding plans.
I invite you to call or email me to discuss your wedding plans.
Q: How can I contact you?
A: Feel free to call me (941-351-5347) or email me any time.
Q: Are you an Ordained Minister?
A: Yes, I am an Ordained All-Faiths Minister (some call it non-denominational). The State of
Florida authorizes me to perform wedding ceremonies and sign your marriage license to
make it legal. We also have a male Minister and Notary on staff if that is your preference.
Q: What kinds of ceremonies do you perform?
A: All kinds! Civil, Religious, Spiritual, Interfaith, Multi-Cultural, Commitment Ceremonies,
Renewal of Vows and Baby Blessings. Since each ceremony is custom written just for you, it
will reflect your love and commitment in a personal and memorable way.
Q: What is included in the ceremony?
A: There are as many aspects to a wedding ceremony as there are people. You can include
Parents, Grandparents, Children, Readings, Prayers, Poetry, Sand Ceremony, Shell
Ceremony, Unity Candle, Rose Ceremony, Blessing of the Hands...and any other element
that you would like. I will work with you to select the best possible ceremony elements, and I
will gently guide you through the process. View some planning ideas.
Q: Why should we ask you to officiate at our wedding?
A: We have many years of experience creating and conducting wedding ceremonies. We
know that this is YOUR DAY and it is all about YOU! We bring warmth, professionalism and
humor to everything we do, and you will enjoy working with us. Your guests will compliment
you on your ceremony and how we conducted it, and they will be engaged in the ceremony
from beginning to end. We are calm and can handle any situation that arises with grace and
ease. We will help make your dream wedding a reality, and you will enjoy your wedding day!
Q: We need a Wedding Coordinator. Can you help?
A: Absolutely! I offer a Wedding Coordinator Package that can make all the difference in
your enjoyment of your Special Day.
Q: How do we get started?
A: The process is simple! We have a "get acquainted" meeting - or telephone conversation
if you are at a distance - and I ask a lot of questions. This gives me the information I need to
write your ceremony. I will take a non-refundable deposit of one-half the fee, and your date
and time will be confirmed.
Q: Why is the deposit non-refundable?
A: Since I am reserving your date and time just for you, I will turn down any other services
that may be requested. Additionally, I will have spent time with you and on the preparation
of your ceremony.
Q: Can we make changes to the wedding ceremony?
A: Of course! It is YOUR ceremony. Once it is completed, I will email the draft to you and you
will make any changes you wish. I'm happy to offer any guidance you may need.
Q: Do you provide a copy of the wedding ceremony for us?
A: Certainly! I email the ceremony to you once it is just the way you want it.
Q: What if we want a simple civil ceremony? Do we meet with you?
A: I am happy to provide a lovely pre-written wedding ceremony that is appropriate for a
small wedding or if you elope. It will not require an in-person meeting; we can "meet" on the
telephone and email. If you wish to meet, I will make myself available.
Q: How long does the wedding ceremony take?
A: Generally, the ceremony will take 20 to 25 minutes. It is plenty of time for you to say
everything that is important to you, and your guests are still listening at the end.
Q: What if we are Second Marriage Catholics, of different faiths and/or ethic
backgrounds, planning to include our children, or other non-traditional
situations?
A: I believe your love can and should be expressed in your wedding ceremony, and I am
delighted to accommodate your special desires.
Q: Do you have a backup in case you have an emergency situation on our
wedding day?
A: Yes! Although this rarely occurs, I will be certain to provide another wedding officiant to
fill in for me so that your wedding day is just the way you want it to be.
Q: We have always thought of being married by a man. Is this wrong?
A: Of course not. Everyone has personal preferences. Rev. Rich Butler (my husband) is
ready to provide the same level of expertise and caring to ensure a heartfelt wedding
ceremony that is exactly what you want. We even have a Notary if that is your preference.
Q: Can we have a friend or family member read a poem or scripture during the
wedding ceremony?
A: Yes, and I can help you make the selection from my large library of readings.
Q: Can we write our own wedding vows and read them at our wedding?
A: Of course you can, and I'm very happy to offer guidance just in case it is not as simple
as you imagine.
Q: Will our guests be able to hear the ceremony, especially if it is outdoors?
A: We offer a sound system to amplify our voices and yours. We use a hand-held or
lavaliere (clip-on) microphone. There is a small additional fee for this service.
Q: What do you wear to the ceremony?
A: You may choose the attire. I can wear my Minister's Robe, a dress or any other outfit
that reflects the level of formality you want. Rich can wear a suit or more casual outfit...it's
always your choice. See pictures on the Photo Album Page.
Q: Do we need a Florida Marriage License? Do we need a blood test? Is
there a waiting period?
A: Yes, you need a Marriage License issued by the State of Florida. You can obtain it at
any County Clerk's office in the State of Florida by going in person with photo id's (driver
license or passport is best), your Social Security Numbers and the ending date of any
previous marriage. The fee is approximately $93.50 (it varies by county). There is a
three-day waiting period for Florida Residents; no waiting period for Non- Residents. No
blood tests are required. Witnesses are not required. The license is valid for 60 days from
date of issue and must be returned to the Clerk's office within 10 days of your wedding
ceremony, which is part of the service we provide. You will receive your certified copy in
about three weeks. For full details, visit Sarasota County Clerk's Office Marriage License
Info.
Q: Do we have to be U.S. Citizens in order for you to perform our wedding
ceremony?
A: No, as long as you obtain a Marriage License issued by the State of Florida. I have
performed many weddings for people from many countries...Canada, England, Germany,
Scotland, Brazil, Switzerland...and more!
Q: What if we want a rehearsal?
A: I am happy to schedule a rehearsal, usually the day before your wedding, but it can be
whenever it works for you. The rehearsal can be conducted at the site of the wedding
ceremony or any other place that you wish, and there is a nominal additional charge. I will
take care of every detail and make sure everyone is comfortable with their part, especially
any children who are included. And, we'll have some fun!
Q: What if we have our marriage license but do not want to be married at the
courthouse? Can you provide a wedding ceremony on short notice?
A: I try to accommodate every bride and groom, and usually the answer it "Yes!" It's
possible that I can come to your location, or you can come to mine. It is not required by the
State of Florida to have witnesses sign your Marriage License, but you are welcome to have
them attend if you wish.
Q: We're already married. Would you perform a ceremony for our family and
friends anyway?
A: Yes. I often do this kind of "wedding." It will be a lovely ceremony, and if you don't want
anyone to know you just couldn't wait, that's okay.
Q: Do you perform beach weddings? What else should we consider?
A: Over half of our weddings are conducted at the beach. Most often they are on a
Sarasota, Nokomis, Osprey, Manasota, Bradenton or St. Petersburg Beach. Some of the
most beautiful beaches are on Siesta Key, Lido Beach, Anna Maria Island and Longboat
Key. We even offer an optional Beach Wedding Package. Other popular locations include
one of the many fine country clubs or public parks in the greater Sarasot/Bradenton area.
Q: We want to elope or have a destination wedding. Can you help us?
A: We are happy to provide many additional services for your wedding...photographer,
videographer, live or recorded music, decor, amplification services, Sarasota Wedding
Cordinator ...and more.
A: Feel free to call me (941-351-5347) or email me any time.
Q: Are you an Ordained Minister?
A: Yes, I am an Ordained All-Faiths Minister (some call it non-denominational). The State of
Florida authorizes me to perform wedding ceremonies and sign your marriage license to
make it legal. We also have a male Minister and Notary on staff if that is your preference.
Q: What kinds of ceremonies do you perform?
A: All kinds! Civil, Religious, Spiritual, Interfaith, Multi-Cultural, Commitment Ceremonies,
Renewal of Vows and Baby Blessings. Since each ceremony is custom written just for you, it
will reflect your love and commitment in a personal and memorable way.
Q: What is included in the ceremony?
A: There are as many aspects to a wedding ceremony as there are people. You can include
Parents, Grandparents, Children, Readings, Prayers, Poetry, Sand Ceremony, Shell
Ceremony, Unity Candle, Rose Ceremony, Blessing of the Hands...and any other element
that you would like. I will work with you to select the best possible ceremony elements, and I
will gently guide you through the process. View some planning ideas.
Q: Why should we ask you to officiate at our wedding?
A: We have many years of experience creating and conducting wedding ceremonies. We
know that this is YOUR DAY and it is all about YOU! We bring warmth, professionalism and
humor to everything we do, and you will enjoy working with us. Your guests will compliment
you on your ceremony and how we conducted it, and they will be engaged in the ceremony
from beginning to end. We are calm and can handle any situation that arises with grace and
ease. We will help make your dream wedding a reality, and you will enjoy your wedding day!
Q: We need a Wedding Coordinator. Can you help?
A: Absolutely! I offer a Wedding Coordinator Package that can make all the difference in
your enjoyment of your Special Day.
Q: How do we get started?
A: The process is simple! We have a "get acquainted" meeting - or telephone conversation
if you are at a distance - and I ask a lot of questions. This gives me the information I need to
write your ceremony. I will take a non-refundable deposit of one-half the fee, and your date
and time will be confirmed.
Q: Why is the deposit non-refundable?
A: Since I am reserving your date and time just for you, I will turn down any other services
that may be requested. Additionally, I will have spent time with you and on the preparation
of your ceremony.
Q: Can we make changes to the wedding ceremony?
A: Of course! It is YOUR ceremony. Once it is completed, I will email the draft to you and you
will make any changes you wish. I'm happy to offer any guidance you may need.
Q: Do you provide a copy of the wedding ceremony for us?
A: Certainly! I email the ceremony to you once it is just the way you want it.
Q: What if we want a simple civil ceremony? Do we meet with you?
A: I am happy to provide a lovely pre-written wedding ceremony that is appropriate for a
small wedding or if you elope. It will not require an in-person meeting; we can "meet" on the
telephone and email. If you wish to meet, I will make myself available.
Q: How long does the wedding ceremony take?
A: Generally, the ceremony will take 20 to 25 minutes. It is plenty of time for you to say
everything that is important to you, and your guests are still listening at the end.
Q: What if we are Second Marriage Catholics, of different faiths and/or ethic
backgrounds, planning to include our children, or other non-traditional
situations?
A: I believe your love can and should be expressed in your wedding ceremony, and I am
delighted to accommodate your special desires.
Q: Do you have a backup in case you have an emergency situation on our
wedding day?
A: Yes! Although this rarely occurs, I will be certain to provide another wedding officiant to
fill in for me so that your wedding day is just the way you want it to be.
Q: We have always thought of being married by a man. Is this wrong?
A: Of course not. Everyone has personal preferences. Rev. Rich Butler (my husband) is
ready to provide the same level of expertise and caring to ensure a heartfelt wedding
ceremony that is exactly what you want. We even have a Notary if that is your preference.
Q: Can we have a friend or family member read a poem or scripture during the
wedding ceremony?
A: Yes, and I can help you make the selection from my large library of readings.
Q: Can we write our own wedding vows and read them at our wedding?
A: Of course you can, and I'm very happy to offer guidance just in case it is not as simple
as you imagine.
Q: Will our guests be able to hear the ceremony, especially if it is outdoors?
A: We offer a sound system to amplify our voices and yours. We use a hand-held or
lavaliere (clip-on) microphone. There is a small additional fee for this service.
Q: What do you wear to the ceremony?
A: You may choose the attire. I can wear my Minister's Robe, a dress or any other outfit
that reflects the level of formality you want. Rich can wear a suit or more casual outfit...it's
always your choice. See pictures on the Photo Album Page.
Q: Do we need a Florida Marriage License? Do we need a blood test? Is
there a waiting period?
A: Yes, you need a Marriage License issued by the State of Florida. You can obtain it at
any County Clerk's office in the State of Florida by going in person with photo id's (driver
license or passport is best), your Social Security Numbers and the ending date of any
previous marriage. The fee is approximately $93.50 (it varies by county). There is a
three-day waiting period for Florida Residents; no waiting period for Non- Residents. No
blood tests are required. Witnesses are not required. The license is valid for 60 days from
date of issue and must be returned to the Clerk's office within 10 days of your wedding
ceremony, which is part of the service we provide. You will receive your certified copy in
about three weeks. For full details, visit Sarasota County Clerk's Office Marriage License
Info.
Q: Do we have to be U.S. Citizens in order for you to perform our wedding
ceremony?
A: No, as long as you obtain a Marriage License issued by the State of Florida. I have
performed many weddings for people from many countries...Canada, England, Germany,
Scotland, Brazil, Switzerland...and more!
Q: What if we want a rehearsal?
A: I am happy to schedule a rehearsal, usually the day before your wedding, but it can be
whenever it works for you. The rehearsal can be conducted at the site of the wedding
ceremony or any other place that you wish, and there is a nominal additional charge. I will
take care of every detail and make sure everyone is comfortable with their part, especially
any children who are included. And, we'll have some fun!
Q: What if we have our marriage license but do not want to be married at the
courthouse? Can you provide a wedding ceremony on short notice?
A: I try to accommodate every bride and groom, and usually the answer it "Yes!" It's
possible that I can come to your location, or you can come to mine. It is not required by the
State of Florida to have witnesses sign your Marriage License, but you are welcome to have
them attend if you wish.
Q: We're already married. Would you perform a ceremony for our family and
friends anyway?
A: Yes. I often do this kind of "wedding." It will be a lovely ceremony, and if you don't want
anyone to know you just couldn't wait, that's okay.
Q: Do you perform beach weddings? What else should we consider?
A: Over half of our weddings are conducted at the beach. Most often they are on a
Sarasota, Nokomis, Osprey, Manasota, Bradenton or St. Petersburg Beach. Some of the
most beautiful beaches are on Siesta Key, Lido Beach, Anna Maria Island and Longboat
Key. We even offer an optional Beach Wedding Package. Other popular locations include
one of the many fine country clubs or public parks in the greater Sarasot/Bradenton area.
Q: We want to elope or have a destination wedding. Can you help us?
A: We are happy to provide many additional services for your wedding...photographer,
videographer, live or recorded music, decor, amplification services, Sarasota Wedding
Cordinator ...and more.
Personalized Wedding Ceremonies honoring
all traditions and contemporary ideals.
all traditions and contemporary ideals.
"A good marriage is one which allows for change and growth in the
individuals and in the way they express their love."
- Pearl S. Buck
individuals and in the way they express their love."
- Pearl S. Buck
If you have any other questions, please feel free to call (941-351-5347) or
email me. It's always a pleasure to talk about your plans and how I can help
make your Wedding Day as special as it can be.
email me. It's always a pleasure to talk about your plans and how I can help
make your Wedding Day as special as it can be.
Serving Sarasota, Bradenton, St. Petersburg, Tampa & The Beaches
Spiritual, Religious and Civil Wedding Ceremonies
created with heartfelt attention to every detail.
created with heartfelt attention to every detail.
Sarasota Dream Weddings
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Revs. Rich & Georgeann
Sand Ceremony
A promise made for a lilfetime
of joy and happiness.
of joy and happiness.
Romantic Sarasota Sunset
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