Some families come ready made.  On Friday we officiated a simple elopement-style wedding at our chapel for Sondra and Al.  Included in the package deal were two little ones, a 4-year-old boy and his red-headed sister  who is, well, terribly 2!  She responded to every question or comment with an emphatic, "No!"  Due to this restless little native, we skipped the unity candles for a short and sweet ceremony. As soon as she was back in her mother's arms, all was well with the world.

We had a special celebrity "guest" at yesterday's wedding at the chapel. Tony Stewart, in cardboard form, stood with the couple for a photo. Congrats to Lorie & Jack. Love their sense of humor!

One of our couple's family members re-created this cake, inspired by one they'd found on Pinterest. We think they did a masterful job and it made their mini-reception, following the wedding at our chapel, very special!

Our chapel is small, but sometimes the bride's gown is big!  It is so fun when a bride wears a dress with a long train. We captured an image of the back of Janna's lovely gown, standing next to her handsome new husband, Jason.

Most couples we serve are happy to share a photo or two for our website or Facebook page, but occasionally there's a shy couple who would prefer not. And we certainly respect that. Some will consent to an anonymous back view shot, or photo of just their hands. Whether sharing this joyful occasion only with each other and a small circle of friends and family, or "shouting to the world" on social media, we honor your wishes to be Wedded Your Way.

Another of my couples pulled off an elaborate ruse.  They’d invited 100 of their closest friends to what was supposed to be a reception-only, telling everyone they’d eloped the week before.  Instead they met with me to plan their surprise nuptials.  I showed up to the “reception,” posing as a guest.  The groom arrived, but time passed and people began to wonder where was the bride?  At the appointed time the groom stepped up to the mic, looking confused.  He announced that he had a confession to make.  There had been a misunderstanding, he said, and a wedding had not actually taken place.  “Is there a minister in the house?” He asked, sounding very sincere.  (He was a really good actor!)  According to plan, at that point I raised my hand.  I pulled my clergy vestment and book out of my bag, then took my place up front and center.  Processional music began playing, and in walked the bridesmaids followed by the bride.  The look of shock on the guests’ faces was priceless!  I began with, “Yes, folks, this is a real wedding and I am a real minister. The bride and groom wanted to surprise you and they obviously succeeded!”  A surprise wedding is simply a delight!