Chris & Nichole - 5.27.22

I don’t think there could ever have been a more joyful wedding. Chris and Nichole were married in front of their children and family at the Kidston Pavilion that is in Fellows Riverside Gardens in Mill Creek Reservation in Youngstown.

These two, who have been together for 2.5 years, were so very happy that their wedding was actually happening. They lost their minister 10 days before their wedding! You can imagine the panic they were in. I was able to help them because a wedding I had that weekend was on a Sunday with a rehearsal the Saturday before. So, Friday, May 27 was open. They were ecstatic!

The ceremony took place in the beautiful pavilion amidst incredible gardens. Go to my Facebook page to see all the photos.

Chris was very nervous and trying to keep cool in front of his two little boys that served as ring bearers. Nichole’s 17 year-old daughter served as the Maid of Honor.

Nichole looked absolutely stunning in a long-fitted gown with what looked like metallic beads. It was one of the most unique and gorgeous wedding gowns I have ever seen. And I have seen a lot!

The wedding went very smoothly with a dramatic entrance for all along a grass path through the gardens. This is one wedding I will remember - not only for the exquisite setting but also for the love and joy that was so evident between this lovely couple.

They were both very kind and sincere in their thanks for my participation in their wedding day. Wishing them only the best.

Kenny & Bridget - 5.21.22

Kenny and Bridget love beer so what better place to get married than at a brewery - and a very nice brewery it was - Southern Tier Brewing Company in downtown Cleveland. The setting was very picturesque with beer barrels along a wall. With Bridget’s parents as the only guests, the photographer and me made for a very personal and intimate wedding.

Bridget wore a long very light peach lace gown with a beautiful train. Her hair and makeup were lovely. Kenny had on a very handsome blue suit with brown shoes - which is very popular with men right now.

Although they used my vows, Kenny surprised Bridget with a very sweet and loving message that had a Harry Potter flair to express his love.

They also did a Unity Sand ceremony using an engraved glass block instead of a vase. It looked really nice.

Wishing this lovely couple a Harry Potter fantasy life.

Doug & Vickie - 5.14.22

Although it rained in the morning, a beautiful blue sky came out for Doug and Vickie’s wedding in Twinsburg. It was held at a golf club that has a great pavilion with a huge fireplace - a very lovely venue for a lovely couple.

Vickie looked stunning in an off-the-shoulder, lace gown with a long train. And Doug was very handsome in a fashionable blue suit.

Both were a bit nervous, taking their vows and ring exchange very seriously, seeming to realize that their wedding was really happening. So sweet.

They had two violinists that added so much to the ceremony. There is nothing more beautiful than live music at a wedding.

Wishing them lots of blue skies, sun and joy in the future together.

Ron & Rebecca - 5.7.22

Ron and Rebecca have been together for 10 years. and decided it was time to make it legal. They had their ceremony on the back deck of their beautiful backyard in Gates Mills on a perfect Saturday afternoon. They looked so fun in their 60s style multi-colored outfits.

Rebecca had broken her foot a few weeks before but she was able to take her boot off for the ceremony. And their dog, who supposed to be the ring bearer, got hit by a car and died just a two weeks before. With all this going on, they were still very ready to get married.

It was quite a moving ceremony with the couple saying their own vows. But what got everyone emotional, was when Ron read a poem about their dog, Harley G. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house - including me. Just so very sad. So I quickly said we need to take those tears and make them happy tears for these two very sweet people.

They will be getting a new dog soon so I know that will help to heal some of their sorrow. Wishing them love and peace and much fun with their new furry baby.

Mitch & Z - 5.10.22

Mitch and Ziroca, who goes by Z, had a perfect morning for their wedding at Brandywine Falls. Although the Falls are closed to the public right now because of bridge reconstruction, the park rangers opened up the parking lot just for the wedding. Mitch and Z picked the Falls because they are avid hikers and the park was a natural choice for them.

They had a small group of family and friends attend to share their joy. If you haven’t been to Brandywine Falls, there is a long staircase going down right to the Falls. It is quite beautiful and quite loud. So, even though I spoke as loud as I could without yelling, it was still hard for some people to hear. But Mitch and Z are so much in love, all they really cared about was hearing each other.

They are both retired Air Force and we thank them for their incredible service. The ceremony included a Maid of Honor who Z met in the military. She read from Corinthians that added a special touch to the service.

There was one little glitch when a tourist came down and walked right over to the Falls during the ceremony. One of the family members asked her to leave and she became belligerent. I had to stop the ceremony until he got her to leave. Pretty unbelievable that someone could be so insensitive. But we did not let that ruin the ceremony. I continued and the couple were so very happy when I finally pronounced them husband and wife. Wishing much love and happiness to this very special couple.

Layne & Sarah - 4.23.22

Wedding season is just starting again in Northeast Ohio. And the weather couldn’t have been more beautiful for Layne and Sarah’s wedding. Although it was held in a lovely, historical church in Independence, the sunny, 80 degree day was very much appreciated by the couple for wedding photos after.

Layne was quite calm and eager to start the ceremony - obviously very in love with his beautiful bride. He, his groomsmen and his ring bearers all had silly socks on to mark the day.

Sarah was lovely in a floor length, form fitting, ivory lace gown. Her bridesmaids were pretty in pink.

The service went on without a hitch except for the fact that I forgot to change into my wedding heels and I didn’t realize it until I started walking down the aisle . Obviously, it was too late to stop and change. Ooops! So I had black flats on instead but I don’t think anyone noticed. All eyes were on the happy couple.

Wishing this sweet couple lots of love and happiness.

John & Karen - 11.27.21

John and Karen love wine. So what better place to have a wedding than at a wine bar? And so they did - The Wine Room in Avon. After being together for 11 years , they decided that it was time to make it legal. They certainly know each other well which is always a good foundation for a successful marriage.

In front of about 30 guests of family and friends, they very lovingly pledged their love for one another. John seemed quite relaxed and handsome in a vest and Karen looked lovely in a pale blue dress.

I love wine, too, so my husband and I stayed for a glass of vino to toast the happy couple. Wishing them much happiness together.

Russ & Melissa - 10.9.21

Melissa always dreamed of a large wedding. And now her wish came through at her wedding with Russ - 175 guests and a wedding party of 23 at Chenoweth Golf Course and Banquet Facility in North Canton. Thankfully, the weather held out and was just perfect - 74 degrees and sunny. The wedding party consisted of bride, groom, two maids of honor and two best men, five bridesmaids and five groomsmen, three junior bridesmaids, two flower girls and two ring bearers. Whew! But with the expert direction of the super wedding planners at Chenoweth, the procession went very smoothly.

Melissa looked just lovely in a long, flattering lace dress and Russ was very handsome in a tux with red accessories to match the wedding colors. After a very emotional ceremony, the happy wedding couple rode off in a roar in Russ’s motorcycle.

This couple has been together for a long time so chances are good that this is going to be a loving and happy marriage. Wishing them only the best!

Stephen & Elizabeth - 9.25.21

Stephen and Elizabeth picked the VFW Hall in Stow for their wedding. This new hall is quite impressive, not only for military memorabilia but the event area is quite lovely. Elizabeth had it decorated beautifully with a fall theme.

Since this couple lives in Virginia, we were not able to have a rehearsal. I usually require one when the wedding party is more than four people. They had nine. So, I got there early and we had a quick run through before the wedding so that everyone could relax knowing that what they needed to do. And the wedding went off without a hitch. Even the two sweet flower girls came down the aisle and dropped the petals as they were told. The ring bearer, however, practically, ran down to his mother which was just adorable.

Stephen was just a bit nervous but looking quite dapper in his tuxedo. Elizabeth, looking in a lovely full length gown, was really nervous because they had decided to add a personal message to each after reciting my vows. They both did an excellent and heart-rendering job with Elizabeth taking deep breaths to get through it. They were both so sweet and sincere.

Wishing them much love and happiness in their new life together.

Ryan and Mia - 8.27.21

It couldn’t have been a more beautiful day for the wedding of Ryan and Mia. And the bride and groom were just beaming at BayArts in Bay Village. BayArts is part of the Cleveland MetroParks Huntington Reservation - a lovely place for a wedding.

Although it was very warm, no one seemed to mind. Joyful energy was in the air for this couple that are so much in love. Mia looked stunning in a long ivory gown with leaf lace. Ryan was handsome in his dark blue suit and huge smile. Such a warm and loving couple who said their vows and ring exchange with great sincerity. The bridesmaids were all in pale pink and the groomsmen in blue suits.

It was truly my pleasure to officiate at this wedding. Wishing them so much love and happiness in their new life together.

Evan & Megan - 7.31.21

Stan Hywett Hall and Gardens is one of the premier wedding venues in Northeast Ohio. Evan and Megan picked this incredibly beautiful place for their special day. I have performed several weddings there but never before on the West Terrace which is behind the mansion. What an exquisite place surrounded by incredible gardens.

Evan and Megan’s 23- person wedding party practically filled up the length of the stone wall we we stood in front of. Evan was very handsome and very emotional - so sweet. Megan was just stunning in an off the shoulder sleeve, long, from-fitting gown with a train. The bridesmaids were all in the same gold, satin material but all in different designs to complement each of their specific figures.

Two flower girls and two ring bearers battled each other down the stairs which was funny and cute.

A string duet played the cello and violin which just added to the elegance of the wedding.

After the ceremony, the bride and groom were whisked away in a golf cart so I did not get to see them. I took individual photos of them before knowing that. Such a lovelycouple. Wishing them much love and happiness.

Jordan & Kaylee - July 24, 2021

If ever there was a fairy tale wedding, this was it. In fact, it was the theme of the wedding for Jordan and Kaylee. A flower girl walked in holding a sign that said “Once Upon a Time…” after the 16-person wedding party. The beautiful Kaylee, who looked like a princess, was driven up in on a horse drawn carriage with her father. This carriage was right out of the Cinderella fairy tale - except that these horses were Clydesdales.

Jordan was very handsome in a grey tuxedo with blue accents. The color theme, blue and yellow, was something he picked out because he is obsessed with the University of Michigan. He even ended his wedding vows with “Go Blue!” Kaylee is quite aware of this and agreed to support his love of the college football team in her vows.

At the end of the ceremony, the flower girl switched her sign over and walked out with it saying “And they lived happily ever after.” All the guests stood to take photos of the bride and groom happily being driven off in their Cinderella carriage. An incredibly beautiful wedding for a lovely couple. Wishing them all the best.

Julius & Detra - July 17, 2021

Julius and Detra first met 40 years ago at Hawkins Skating Rink. They were childhood sweethearts for awhile but then continued to grow up and grow apart. Until they reunited through Facebook. Detra married, had two boys and divorced. Julius never married. Was he waiting for Detra? I think so.

I was happy to officiate at their beautiful wedding at the Sheraton Suites in Cuyahoga Falls. It was a very hot day and humid day so we were happy to be in air conditioning although nerves were making everyone perspire a bit. Detra was as nervous and excited as she could be and looked beautiful in a full length lace gown. Julius was very handsome in an all white tuxedo. Detra’s two grown sons walked her down the aisle. Wishing them much love and happiness in their life together.

Tim & Melanie - July 14, 2021

I received an urgent message from a daughter of an officiant on July 13. Her mother was taken to the hospital for emergency surgery and she was asking me if I could perform the wedding her mother was scheduled to do the next day. I already had a wedding scheduled for 2:00 p.m. that was close by. This wedding was 45 min. away. Then the bride called me saying they were desperate because their guests were coming to their campground where they have a trailer to spend the day and the wedding would take place at 6. I try not to do two weddings on the same day but I agreed to this one and I am happy I did so.

Tim and Melanie were just a friendly, fun couple who welcomed me with open arms. The wedding was casual with Shawnee Lake in the background. Melanie was just bursting with excitement and looked lovely in an all lace long gown. Tim was more relaxed and very happy. Their vows couldn’t have been more loving. I am very happy that I could help them out. They have been together nine years so I think I can confidently say that they will have a long and loving marriage. Wishing them the best.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - June 14, 2021 - Nate and Cher

It was my pleasure to officiate at the wedding of Nate and Cher at the gazebo in North Royalton. It was a lovely, intimate ceremony with just the two of them and a photographer friend. Both were so excited that this special day was happening. Cher looked beautiful in an attractive pink chiffon dress with a pretty bouquet of pink roses. Nate was very handsome in a dark suit with a tie clasp that interested me. It had the Star Trek insignia on it. Being a major Trekkie, I had to inquire about it and found that Nate was also a major Star Trek fan. After performing the Unity Sand Ceremony in a lovely set up that they brought to the gazebo, I pronounced this special couple husband and wife. These two are as much in love as any couple I have married. And I have to say, two of the nicest people I have met. Live long and prosper together, Nate and Cher!

Memorial - Lee Russell - 6.12.21 - #1

Two weddings and one memorial all the same day - that was a first for me. I started the day with assisting our minister at Unity Spiritual Center in a Celebration of Life ceremony for our beloved Lee Russell – a long-time and very well-loved member of our church. The church was packed – well over 200 people there.

 After discussions with his daughter, she and I decided to open the ceremony with a Buddhist prayer as she laid a flower and prayer beads on a Buddha altar. It was a lovely tribute. After I did a message, the obituary and a prayer, Rev. Joanne did a phenomenal job honoring Lee’s unique and quirky personality. Several people gave lovely and funny eulogies including my husband, John, who talked about their shared love of music. All in all, it was a very special and loving memorial to a man we will all miss very much.

Words of Wisdom - May 16, 2021

Little Italy was the perfect place for Kevin and Lindsey to say “I Do” on Sunday. Angelos Nido Italia restaurant has a large, covered patio adjacent to their banquet room. The ceremony and cocktail hour after was outside and then the guests dined inside.

There was a lot excitement in the air for this couple who have five daughters between them. The two older daughters were bridesmaids and the three little ones were adorable as flower girls.

Lindsey looked beautiful in a full length chiffon gown with lace bodice. The bridesmaids were were in navy blue gowns. Kevin and his groomsmen looking dashing in grey tuxedos.

Lindsey beamed throughout the service looking lovingly tat her groom. Wishing them much love and happiness in their combined family.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 4.24.21 - Peter & Oriana

The weather held out on Saturday, April 24 with only a slight mist for Peter and Oriana’s wedding. It took place on the patio of a beautiful venue - The Clifton Barn at the Olde Avon Village. You could just feel the positive energy and excitement flowing in the crowd.

Oriana looked stunning in a form-fitting long lace gown with a lovely bouquet. Peter was all smiles and looking very handsome in a dark suit.

Oriana is from Colombia and her mother does not speak any English. Since I address the parents at the beginning of the service, I decided to surprise her by speaking to her in Spanish when I asked for her blessing for Oriana to marry Peter. She understood and she and her son were very happy to say We do - in Spanish, of course.

This is one wedding I will always remember - two beautiful people so much in love. Wishing them so much happiness in their new life together.

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 2.14.21 - Hakeem & Latosha

What's more romantic than a Valentine's Day wedding?! It was a spur of the moment wedding but Hakeem and Latosha have been in love for many years. It was certainly my honor to be part of their special day. Not only did they do the Unity Candle ceremony but also the Jump the Broom ceremony - an African American tradition that is more than a century old. Although there were just a few people attending, the "1,2,3 Jump" was loud and enthusiastic! Wishing these two lovely people much love and happiness in their new life together!

Wedding Words of Wisdom - 11.21.20

My first Zoom wedding - wow! It was exciting, nerve-wracking and certainly different. Robert and Macrina had decided on a small, very intimate wedding with just their parents attending due to the pandemic. Everything was ready to go at Macrina’s father’s home in Canton. I was anxious to see her father, Tony, and his husband, Gary, again. They were the first gay couple I ever married legally and I remember the wedding well.

The morning of their wedding I received a text that the father of the bride had tested positive to COVID. Oh, no! What to do now? They asked if I would marry them outside in 45 degrees so that her father could see the wedding through a window. I didn’t mind the cold but my husband and I decided that it was just too risky to be there at all because the couple had been in contact with him prior to the diagnosis.

So I suggested a Zoom wedding although I had never done one before. They were all thrilled and said yes, let’s do it. Fortunately, I had been in Zoom meetings before and I quickly figured out how to host the event. We had four screens - the bride and groom, Marina’s parents, Robert’s parents and me.

It couldn’t have gone any better! Everyone was very excited. You could see and feel the energy even though it was through a computer. Robert looked very handsome in a grey suit and Macrina was lovely and beaming in an ivory chiffon dress with a lace bodice. The ceremony was casual and fun because everyone got into it and interjected comments here and there. They even performed the Unity Candle ceremony. The bride and groom were so happy and I am sure they will have a joyful marriage filled with lots of love and blessings. And I see Zoom weddings as a way that I can help couples get married in a lovely and memorable way during this time of challenge.