Ceremonies and Celebrations

Preparing for your wedding can be an enjoyable time. I have over 20 years experience organizing various aspects of the day; I can help you design your ceremony with minimum stress and some guaranteed laughs. Whether you tell the fascinating story of how you met, describe each other’s attributes, express the unique qualities of your bond, or select a standard ceremony, your vows will be uniquely yours. Suitable rituals can be incorporated, such as the unity candle, breaking the glass, or jumping the broom. Over the years, I have worked with many couples who choose to honor of their both cultures and nationalities. I support this tradition and work with you to acknowledge each other and your families appropriately. Some of the combined cultures have included Jewish/Iranian; Chinese/Irish; African American/Korean; Philipino/Scottish. From the simple to the sublime, it will be your wedding, your way.

A House Blessing or Office Blessing marks a transition and again honors a new beginning in a new location. The blessing may resemble a traditional “house warming” where guests gather and bring a favorite food, plant or other small gift. The addition of a ritual allows an officiant to lead guests in a ceremony to make the space one’s own. The dreams, visions, wishes, aspirations and good will of the residents are called forth and acknowledged. It is a public statement of going forward in a positive way and is supported by the good wishes of all present.

Memorials or Life Celebrationceremonies are newer terms used to describe an alternative to the traditional funeral service. They are held in a reasonable time frame after the death to meet the needs of the family. A body is not present. Attendees have an opportunity to honor the memory of the deceased, express love and affection and most of all, celebrate the life of the individual. As the officiant, I share a brief biography of the deceased by interviewing family members. I invite guests to share memories, reflections and eulogies, making the service personal and very memorable. Creative elements add to a meaningful commemorative including live or recorded music, singing, poetry, photo presentations and candle lighting. Some families may elect to hold separate services for family, friends, co-workers, neighbors or community members. The location should reflect the personality of the deceased such as a private home, community center, park or favorite setting of the l...

House Blessing Ceremony Oakland Now, Visit CeremoniesAndCelebrations.com A House Blessing or Office Blessing marks a transition and again honors a new beginning in a new location. The blessing may resemble a traditional “house warming” where guests gather and bring a favorite food, plant or other small gift. The addition of a ritual allows an officiant to lead guests in a ceremony to make the space one’s own. The dreams, visions, wishes, aspirations and good will of the residents are called forth and acknowledged. It is a public statement of going forward in a positive way and is supported by the good wishes of all present.