It Blew Us Away...

I keep writing about weather, because I do so many ceremonies outdoors...and the weather can make or break the event.

Last Saturday the weather was a challenge. It was so cold and windy at the pavilion at the historic Conference House on Staten Island! Just look at my hair standing on end as evidence of the brisk breezes...and I was lucky to have a coat on.

In the last light of day, April and Jeff spoke their vows with about 20 shivering family and friends around them. Their mothers "tied the knot" in a handfasting ritual. And everyone cheered when they were declared husband and wife. Perhaps the cheers were that they might then head for shelter.

License signed, hugs all around, and off to a party...it turned out to be a memorable day for the couple. I won't forget it!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Welcoming Baby...

What a priviledge it was to have a couple I married in 2007 drop me a note that they wanted me to create a baby-welcoming ceremony to introduce their son to their families!

About a month after Joanna and Scott's son was born, their two families gathered at their Upper West Side apartment. The little one cooperated with contented silence as he was formally named by his parents. His materal and paternal grandparents give their blessings, and his godparents made promises to be there for him throughout his life.

The highlight of the ceremony was the eloquent, amusing, and sentimental reading composed by Scott...reflections on having his first child in his life. It was wonderful!

The champagne bottles were popped...and this new child was the "toast of the town." He is so lucky to have loving parents, devoted grandparents, and caring godparents.

This was my first invitation to reunite with a couple on the occasion of introducing their baby to the world. It was indeed a delight for me!

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!