Julie Laudicina - Wedding Officiant, NY NJ

With this Chocolate, I Thee Wed

2012-02-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

When I write wedding ceremonies as a civil wedding officiant, I try to create something unique for each ceremony. Couples often give me a hint of what would work for them...something they saw in a friend's wedding, a traditional wedding element from their background, or something they both really enjoy such as wine or travel.

It could even be chocolate! A shared piece of chocolate during the ceremony could symbolize the sweetness they will share over a lifetime or the passion they have for sharing all the wonders and delights of being together.

I met two chocolatiers, Sweet Sisters Chocolates, who have a wonderful line of wedding enhancements...all in chocolate. I really like these symbols of a bride and groom....just perfect for sharing in a wedding ceremony.

Hmmmmm....so sweet!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Elegance All Around

2012-02-01T08:40:00.000-08:00

It's a joy to be the wedding officiant for a couple who really know what they are doing...who have planned a wonderful celebration...and fully embrace the meaning of their wedding day. Megan and George's choices for their day focused on family, friends from near and far, and their love for one another. Somehow their choices all added up to "beautiful."

The ceremony, on the rooftop at Midtown Loft & Terrace, was filled with emotion and well-chosen words. Their sibliges as Best Man and Maid of Honor each did a literary reading. I told their love story...which illustrated the many ways in which Megan and George seemed destined to be together.

Even though this wedding was last September, it's still quite clear in my mind...gracious, elegant, and loving all around. I hope that day is still crystal clear in their minds and hearts too.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Top of the Rock

2012-01-31T11:30:00.000-08:00

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

I missed writing about a thrilling wedding last summer at The Top of the Rock. The bride and groom, from the UK, selected this spot so they could feel they were really in NYC for their wedding. The view north toward Central Park was spectacular. The couple spoke their vows, exchanged rings, and shared the moment with her son and his girl friend. Just loverly!

The stunning photographs by my friend Brian Friedman tell the story. The pictures in this blog entry are his work.

Destination wedding tip: It was nerve-wracking For Paul and Kim that their NYC marriage certificate didn't arrive via mail...not for months. It's unusual, but in their case, it happened. I got legal permission from them to go to the City Clerk's Office to straighten it out so that they finally got their certificate. Neither they nor I would like to go through that worry, expense, and effort again.
An international couple coming to NYC to get legally married has the option of bringing the completed marriage license back to the City Clerk's Office after the wedding. The Clerk will give the couple their certificate to them that day. So consider this return visit to "city hall" as a prudent use of your time in NYC...getting that certificate in your hands before you fly home.

Winner of Bride's Choice Award Again

2012-01-23T11:33:00.000-08:00

For the third year in a row, I was a winner of WeddingWire's Bride's Choice Award in the Officiant Category. Thank you so much to my couples for their reviews. Here's the press release from WeddingWire:

{New York,NY} – January 23, 2012 – WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding Marketplace, is excited to announce Julie Laudicina, Celebrant! has been selected to receive the prestigious WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2012 for Officiant!

The esteemed annual awards program recognizes the top local wedding vendors from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism within the wedding industry. While many industry awards are selected by the organization, Julie Laudicina was selected based on its stellar reviews from past newlywed clients.

Julie Laudicina is recognized as part of the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire local vendor community, comprised of over 200,000 wedding professionals throughout the United States and Canada. The Bride’s Choice Award recognizes the best local wedding vendors across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is thrilled to honor the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community,” said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. “Since the launch of the Bride’s Choice Awards™ program four years ago, thousands of outstanding wedding professionals have been recognized by the bridal community for their supreme service and dedication to the wedding industry. It is with great pleasure that we congratulate Julie Laudicina! for their continued professionalism and commitment to enriching the wedding planning experience for engaged couples.”

We are happy to announce that Julie Laudicina, Celebrant! is one of the very best Officiants within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire. Thanks to their positive feedback we were able to receive the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ for 2012.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today.

To learn more about the Bride's Choice Awards™, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire™, the nation's leading marketplace serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 reviewed wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers. WeddingWire also offers a comprehensive suite of online planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire is the only all-in-one marketing platform for businesses online and on-the-go. WeddingWire offers one simple solution to build a professional network, improve search visibility, manage social media and reach mobile consumers. Businesses that advertise with WeddingWire appear on WeddingWire.com, ProjectWedding.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), Brides.com and Weddingbee.com.

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My Blog is Back!

2012-01-17T11:07:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I've had technical trouble with my blog for several months involving a pesky pop-up blocker, and I've missed posting about autumn weddings I did. Today I finally fixed the problem...whew!

The past few months were filled with memorable wedding ceremonies and memorable couples. I'll write about a select few of them in coming days.

Here are a couple pictures of New Year's Eve weddings. For one, the bride is a friend...for the other, the groom's mother is a friend. It was a day of celebration and much happiness!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!
julielaudicina@msn.com
917-282-2455

Combining Wedding Traditions

2011-08-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

As Matt and Sara made choices for what they wanted in their wedding ceremony, they asked me, as their wedding officiant, to adapt both Jewish and Christian wedding traditions for them.

Before their ceremony at Valley Regency in NJ, they had a formal ketubah signing ceremony with just close family and friends. They had Matt's Catholic godfather be his witness and Sara's Jewish uncle was hers.

The Jewish traditions in their public ceremony included the traditional escorting of the bride and groom by their two parents. The backdrop of their chuppah was Sara's grandfather's prayer shawl. At the end of the ceremony, Matt broke the glass to cheers of Mazel Tov!

Adapting the traditional Christian unity candle ritual, their mothers poured wine into two separate glasses representing their individuality and the families of their birth. Matt and Sara poured the wine from the two glasses into a larger engraved central glass from which they shared the combined wine...symbolizing their new life together in marriage.

This couple was a delight to marry, and I send my thanks to wedding planner Marissa Mortimer, friend of the bride, for referring them to me.

Their wedding announcement was in the Staten Island Advance.

Ceremony Idea: One of the readings they included in their ceremony was a set of comments from email messages Matt had sent to Sara while she was in England studying. In these messages he was reflecting on the philosophical meaning of happiness. I edited the material they provided to create their reading which was very personal and certainly one of a kind. Think "out of the box" for the sources for your wedding ceremony reading.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

For Everything There is a Season

2011-08-03T08:34:00.000-07:00

John and Tina interviewed me to be their wedding officiant in one of last winter's worst snow storms. In contrast, their wedding was in the middle of a summer heat wave. For them, no matter the season, they are now together to take on life as it comes to them.

They included their two young daughters as Maid of Honor and Best Girl. The girls did a good job with the unity sand ritual, and I know they were so excited that Gianna's Dad married Megan's mother. The bride and groom gave each of them a heart pendant on a chain before the ceremony as a momento of the day.

In the love story I told about Tina and John, I made frequent references to their enjoyment of a shared glass of wine...to talk over the day's events and to plan their future. So they appropriately decorated their tables with wine. Their ceremony and reception was at Da Noi on Fingerboard Road in Staten Island.

Knowing there is a season for everything under heaven, it was with saddness that I noted the obituary of John's mother just a week after their ceremony. John had made sure someone videoed the ceremony for her to see. I hope they had the opportunity to tell her how wonderful their wedding day was for them.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Leaving the Nest Together

2011-08-01T11:04:00.000-07:00

Karen and Joe were an unusual bride and groom for me to come across. It's the rare instance these days that I am the wedding officiant for a couple who are both leaving their parents' homes to get married. These two charmed each other during their student days, and with chutzpah and humor...they face the next stage of life as husband and wife.

They had their close friends and siblings in their wedding party. One of the bridesmaids did a wonderful job reading the popular e.e. cummings poem..."i carry your heart." Even though the wind threatened to blow their ketubah across the lawn of Alice Austen House...they managed to get the beautifully designed document signed.

Later at the cocktail hour at Island Chateau I enjoyed talking with Karen's Norwegian-American relatives. I forget there are quite a few of us in the Brooklyn/Staten Island area.

So as you leave the nest, I wish you all the happiness in the world, Karen and Joe.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Well Matched

2011-07-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

Jodi and Mark met on an online dating service, and the matching algorythm was right on target. They are well matched to begin the second half of their lives together.

Their closest family and friends joined them at a Spigola Ristaurante in Hamilton Township, NJ, where I was their wedding officiant. (Yes, I didn't really understand it was so far away when they hired me...but I was glad I was their celebrant!)

After a generous cocktail hour, their guests took their seats for the ceremony. The wedding party and I were really right in the middle of their guests...quite intimate.

A memorial candlie was lighted, their selected reading was read, the vows and rings were exchanged...it was just right for them. At one point Mark gently removed Jodi's glasses, ones she'd put on to read a prayer when she lit the memorial candle with her mother and sister. It was such a sweet gesture. Later she did a spontaneous gesture when she kissed his hand just after they exchanged rings. Two really lovely moments I will always remember.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Garden Wedding for Outdoor Lovers

2011-07-07T12:12:00.000-07:00

When she called to inquire about my services, I asked Katie the name of the groom. "Cody," she said. My neighbor has a nephew Cody, a somewhat unusual name, and sure enough...it was the same Cody. the kid I'd seen at family events next door over the years...now all grown up!

Their wedding ceremony was at Snug Harbor's Tuscan Garden, a relatively new wedding venue on Staten Island. Their wedding party was large...involving their close family and friends...Cody's "posse," small nieces and nephews...it was wonderful.

When I told their love story mentioned their love of outdoors as being one of the things that brought them together. I described Cody's proposal...a lovely dinner, flowers, soft music, wine...and a dance together to music he'd especialy selected. Theirs was quite a romantic story.

It was fun for me to see Cody's aunts, uncles, and cousins in the audience. I usually don't see faces I know during a wedding ceremony. Here are my neighbors!

Ceremony Tip: Yes, it's about kids again! Young kids (4-5 yrs.and younger)in your wedding party don't understand the ceremony...how long it will take, where they are supposed to stand and be sort of still and quiet...what's being said. They want to move around, go to the bathroom, get out of their uncomfortable outfits, etc. You get the picture. Don't set yourself up for frustration...just designate someone not in the wedding party to be a kid helper when they need to just get out of hearing range. Katie and Cody's "kids" were great...but they lucked out!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Keep Calm and Carry On

2011-07-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Two major life milestones to celebrate...a 30th Anniversary and a 50th Birthday. What better way than to come to New York City from Wales to celebrate.

Sue and Mal met me under the portico at Bethesda Fountain in Central Park. They had scouted out the park the day before, and they selected Wagner Cove for their vow renewal ceremony location. The skies were threatening, but their photographer suggested we could probably make it before the rain. Well, we didn't. We were caught in a major 20 minute thunderstorm. Against all common sense, we huddled under a large tree that we hoped would be unnoticed by the lightening strikes. Finally the strorm let up a bit and we walked over to Wagner Cove.

If ever the phrase meant something...Keep Calm and Carry On...it was for this ceremony. With great love in their eyes, Mal and Sue renewed their vows and rededicated their wedding rings...and many of their friends and family sent good wishes which I read to them.

The rain presisted throughout the ceremony, but they acknowledged it was kind of a metaphor for their marriage...especially when the sun came out just as the ceremony ended.

My husband Joe and I, both soaked to the skin, walked over to The Loeb Boathouse Restaurant for a well deserved drink!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

This Bud's For You, Really...Just for You!

2011-06-24T06:09:00.000-07:00

When couples interview me about being their wedding officiant, I ask them to talk about their dream ceremony...who will be there, what words do they want to hear, who will be involved. When Jessica and Tom talked about their ceremony, they joked a bit about doing something with beer. That's all I needed to hear...and my imagination was off and running.

I designed a ritual just for them...using beer as a symbolic of all the love and commitment they bring to their marriage as individuals. As they poured the beer from their individual bottles of their favorite Budweiser into an engraved glass...their commitments merged into one. As they each sipped this unified glass of beer...they locked on each other eyes, their guests nodded in approval, and this ceremony took on a look and feel that was just for Jessica and Tom.

This ceremony was at the St. Charles Seminary's event space on Staten Island, overlooking the outer NYC harbor. Sad to learn that this wedding was the last one to be held here. The Seminary is shutting down its event space as they prepare to sell their required parking lot for residential building. No soul!

Ceremony Tip: Even if you think it may be as profane as using beer in your ceremony, do mention your mutual interests and hobbies to your wedding officiant. You may find that detail is just the key to unlocking a creative and personal element for your ceremony...one that has meaning for the two of you.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Australian Bride and Groom

2011-06-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

When this Australian Bride and Groom got to New York, they checked out places in Central Park to have their wedding ceremony. They selected the Bow Bridge...excellent choice!

Kera and Al's wedding ceremony was private...sweet and emotional. They opted to have this moment just between the two of them before they joined friends for a celebratory dinner. Speaking their vows to one another was the highlight of this ceremony...the words came from their hearts with feeling.

Boaters, school groups, and tourists congratulated Al and Shera as they kissed right after I declared them husband and wife.

They met where they worked in Australia...his proposal was in Bali...and they got married in New York City. With the world at their feet, they begin the new adventures that married life will bring to them.

Most of the products and services that made their wedding day come to life were by New York City wedding folks...their rings, her dress and flowers, their wonderful photographer - Brian Friedman, and me, their wedding officiant.

And then they were off to have Brian take pictures of them with iconic NYC as the backdrop. It looked to me like they had the NYC destination wedding of their dreams!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Destination: NYC

2011-06-15T07:46:00.000-07:00

An English couple, Craig and Michelle, engaged me as their wedding officiant for their NYC destination wedding. Michelle was so impressed with all the arrangements that Craig made...quite under-estimating the level of details required. But he succeeded in giving her the special day they both wanted.

With their parents by their side, they declared their vows, exchanged rings, and, of course, had the ceremonial kiss as they were declared husband and wife. Central Park's Ladies Pavillion provided the perfect setting for a real New York City wedding.

It was a pleasure to make this happy celebration happen for them...along with my friend and photographer, Brian Freedman. He makes magic with his images.

I suppose since I watched this summer's royal wedding with intense interest, I became fascinated by "fascinators." Both mothers of the couple wore them...quite lovely...and fascinating!

Ceremony Tip: Getting married in a very public place means there will be folks you don't know walking around during the ceremony, and the hum of activity in the park is inescapable. Craig and Michelle did the right thing...they blocked out the movement and peripheral noise. They focused on each other. Their doing so made their ceremony a private and meaningful moment for them.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

21st Century Business Women's Conference

2011-06-15T07:39:00.000-07:00

As part of my ongoing learning about managing the business part of my wedding officiant practice, I have participated for several years in the annual "21st Century Busines Woman" conference sponsored by the Business Outreach Center Network at the West Brighton Community Local Development Corporation.

Yesterday's conference provided me with ideas, networking opportunities, and inspiration. I was pleased to be among the small business owners who helped sponsor the event.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Marrying the Next Generation

2011-06-09T08:23:00.001-07:00

Four years ago I created a ceremony for a couple's 25th anniversary. To my delight, their son and his fiance chose me to the be the wedding officiant for their ceremony last week. Both these ceremonies were at Nicotra's Ballroom on Staten Island...just perfect for family celebrations of all kinds.

Good friend and wonderful musician, John Rotante, did the processional and recessional music for the ceremony. We brought our spouses with us, and we enjoyed socializing after our work was done.

Anthony and Kimberly included a large number of family and friends in their wedding party, and everyone was excited. The ringbearer stood in the center of things for some of the ceremony...even asking me questions. What an experience for him...and fun for me!

Because this couple's parents have long and happy marriages, they had their parents do the readings. The subject of each reading was a definition of marriage..quite appropriate.

Kimberly purchased a sand ritual set online, one I'd never seen before. It was easy to use, it was beautiful, and it worked more smoothly than most sand rituals I have done. They didn't have a connection to sand in their story, but the colors of the sand had meaning for them, so that's the train of thought I took.

Well, maybe they do have a connection to sand...they are happily celebrating in the Bahamas this week!

Ceremony Tip: If you are thinking of including a sand ritual in your wedding ceremony, take a look at this sand ceremony set you can purchase online. You have the option of selecting the colors of sand you wish to use.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!
A Civil Wedding Officiant

It's a Small Private Ceremony

2011-06-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

On rare occasions by my choice, I serve as the wedding officiant for small, very private ceremonies that make a marriage legal. Often these couples plan a more formal ceremony to which their larger circle of family and friends will be invited.

Sometimes the matter at hand is health care insurance, immigration, or child custody issues. All good reasons to step into a legal marriage that brings with it many privileges and responsibilties.

I did such a ceremony last Saturday for a couple who will be formally married at a later date. It was an intimate and elegant ceremony with their very immediate family members present. The documents were signed, and champagne was popped.

I hope they didn't miss the view outside the hotel suite windows. Here's what I saw:

Ceremony Tip: When your ceremony is private/"secret," do include those close to you who will know what is happening and can be trusted, don't eliminate all trappings of a ceremony...make this moment special too, and find some way to acknowledge this day in your journey to getting married...a ring, a rose, or a formal portrait.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!
A Civil Wedding Officiant

They are Quite a Match!

2011-05-31T12:39:00.000-07:00

Amy and Matt selected me as their wedding officiant because they sensed I got how important it was to them to incorporate pieces of their diverse backgrounds into their wedding ceremony.

To honor Matt's Jewish heritage, the ceremony has several traditional elements. His parents both escorted him into the ceremonial space. The men in the wedding party held a chuppah over the bride and groom. I offered the couple seven blessings, and the groom broke the glass to the joyful response of "Mazel Tov!"

In a nod to Amy's Slovak and Eastern Orthodox background, the bride was to my right and the groom to my left during the ceremony, the more Christian staging. The Best Man and the Maid of Honor assisted me with the crowning ritual. Matt and Amy's crowns were made of ivy which symbolizes fidelity, commitment, and married love.

On the wedding day, the bride opted to have the ceremony inside Nicotra's Ballroom (Staten Island, NY), not outdoors in the gazebo. It was a wonderful decision on behalf of her guests to be in comfortable air-conditioned space for the ceremony. To not be wilting in the heat helped their guests fully listen to all the detailed aspects of this ceremony that Matt and Amy so carefully planned.

This couple met on match.com...and they are truly a match!

Ceremony Tip: When the children in the wedding party are young...especially younger than 5 years old, plan on having them sit with relatives in the front row after they enter. They will be happier...and so will you.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Gray Skies are Gonna Clear Up

2011-05-27T05:59:00.000-07:00

For the last two weeks, couples who have scheduled outdoor weddings in the NY/NJ area have just crossed their fingers and hoped for the best. For Bonnie and Alan, it worked! Their wedding ceremony in the relatively new Brooklyn Bridge Park was held under sunny skies.

With the lower Manhattan skyline as the backdrop and the majestic Brooklyn Bridge anchorages in view too, Bonnie and Alan said their vows...witnessed by their parents and their sisters, all here from the UK.

I appreciate it when couples infuse their wedding with symbols of their own. Bonnie's bouquet was constructed from a collection of sparking pins, brooches, and a coin from Antiqua, where Alan proposed. A couple of the pins were heirloom pieces from their families.

Ceremony Tip: Find that special connection to family heritage to include in your ceremony...a favorite poem, reusing vows your parents used, a flower in bouquets from your parent's garden, or jewelry worn by your great-grandmother. Have your celebrant incorporate words about this symbol into the ceremony.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!
Wedding Officiant for Personalized Ceremonies

Sweetish...No, Swedish

2011-05-26T08:41:00.000-07:00

Central Park...down the stairs to Wagner Cove...it was a lovely spot for Sofia and Fredrik to get married. I was the wedding officiant for this couple who arrived with over fifty of their family and friends from Sweden, Norway, and the US.

Sofia and Fredrik spoke their vows in Swedish. It was the first time I have officiated at a wedding when I didn't know what the couple said to each other. But I could see that the words came from their hearts as I watched their faces. It was a very sweet moment.

With bubbles all around, the license was signed, and I declared them husband and wife. It didn't rain, the filming of a commercial nearby was out of hearing range...nothing got in the way of this marriage. The ceremony turned out perhaps better than they expected...I hope!

Ceremony Tip: The couple had a permit to have their ceremony at Cherry Hill. We arrived at that spot to find it filled with trucks that were part of a filming event. I don't know to fail safe everything when the park clearly didn't check their permit list when they allowed one of these two events. So just know that "stuff happens," and the solution may make the wedding even better.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!
Wedding officiant for personalized ceremonies

The Beautiful Two

2011-05-16T06:40:00.001-07:00

As their wedding officiant, I worked with Diane and Michael to write their wedding ceremony in a way that would reflect their interests and values. They were drawn together by a mutual interest in books, and they took care to select the readings for their ceremony. One they especially liked is by Alice Walker who described marriage as two people who do not melt into one, but rather two persons becoming a "council of equals...the beautiful two."

As these words were read, it was symbolic that Michael and Diane stood on a mosaic depicting cranes...a beautiful twosome of birds who mate for life. Surrounding the cranes were symbolic interlocking circles...maybe wedding rings! This mosaic is visible in this picture of their ceremony at the Chinese Scholar's Garden in Snug Harbor Cultural Center on Staten Island.

The celebration following the ceremony was at The Noble Maritime Collection, a familiar place for me having worked there some years ago. Michael's company had done the electrical work on our family room renovation, and I know Diane from our work on a planning committee for an annual Staten Island business women's conference. It's not often I have so much connection with a couple outside of their wedding ceremony itself.

For their reception, they had a great live band, and wonderful food, featuring treats from Diane's homestate of Maine...all catered divinely by Framboise. I rarely stay for a reception...this one I couldn't miss! And what did they give for favors as we left...yes, books!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!
Wedding Officiant for the wedding ceremony that is about you

Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now

2011-05-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

The bride and groom were excited...they'd done such good planning...all their ideas were incorporated in their ceremony and reception at The Lake Club on Staten Island.

As their wedding officiant, I carefully wove their ideas into the ceremony...the words to their processional song ("Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now"), setting up the Dr. Seuss reading they selected, telling their love story in delightful detail, and declaring them husband and wife at the conclusion...just before they recessed with bubbles and their selected tune - "All Things Keep Getting Better."

Ceremony Tip: When you have specific ideas you want for your ceremony, it will be a richer and more meaningful ceremony. Nicole and Matt were especially good at describing what they wanted in their wedding ceremony. However, for some couples, they are genuinely clueless about what to ask for in their ceremony. Here are some things you can think about before you meet with the officiant: what song do you want playing when you enter, think about things you have seen in other weddings that you liked, let your officiant know what is important to you (for example - involving your family, having a reading in a different language, doing a traditional ritual like breaking the glass). Don't forget: Your ceremony sets the tone for your wedding day!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Celebrants Sharing Wisdom

2011-05-01T11:09:00.000-07:00

The Celebrant Foundation & Institute is celebrating their 10th anniversary this weekend with the graduation of this year's class and a professional development day, a day of wisdom sharing.

I was honored to be asked to talk about a wedding I did last year, a wedding for a special couple. The bride was terminally ill with breast cancer. The NJ Chapter of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) enlisted wedding vendors to donate their services for her wedding. I was asked by the president of the NJ chapter of ABC to be the officiant. My presentation was a case study/story about how as a celebrant I approached working with Tina and Paul.

Candice Benson, the NJ chapter president of ABC, caught the attention of the national president of Wish Upon A Wedding, a national organization that works with couples when one of them is terminally ill. Candice was recruited to establish a NJ chapter of Wish Upon a Wedding,and the chapter was launched last winter with a gala event.

So I asked Candice to join me in telling the story of Paul and Tina's wedding and to let celebrants attending this conference how to get involved in becoming a Wish Granter for Wish Upon a Wedding chapters in their area.

Always a pleasure to work with Candice...and her wedding and event planning company is first rate too....The Finishing Touch .

Good luck to all the 2011 celebrant graduates!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Getting Married in Central Park

2011-05-01T10:55:00.001-07:00

It felt like the opening game of the season...officiating at my first 2011 wedding ceremony in Central Park. It was the last day of spring break for NYC public school kids and it was the first sunny day after several rainy ones...so the park was buzzing.

London residents Karen and Mark arrived at the popular Central Park wedding spot, the Ladies Pavillion, for their wedding ceremony. I don't think they expected it would be as crowded as it was, but the bystanders respectfully watched and applauded at the end of the ceremony.

I told their love story, reminded them of what they love about each other, heard them declare their vows and watched as they exchanged rings. They signed their NYC marriage license and keepsake certificate. I'm not sure they even noticed all the on-lookers.

Their family sent greetings for me to read to them...warm reminders that the ones they love were thinking about them on their wedding day.

Karen and Mark met at work...sometimes a difficult way to start a romance, but they built a solid relationship based on trust and respct. They also have a spirit of adventure between them...getting engaged on top of the Eifel Tower and getting married in NYC's Central Park.

I wish them every happiness and joy as they begin married life together.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Spring Wedding Ceremony

2011-04-23T11:11:00.000-07:00

Today I officiated at a lovely wedding ceremony for Fred and Adrienne, who wanted their ceremony to be heartfelt and meaningful to them. They read carefully selected poems to each other and exchanged vows & rings. As I announced they were now husband and wife, their family and friends started blowing bubbles. Quite a festive way to begin their marriage!

The folks at Celebrate at Snug Harbor were flexible with the rainy weather as they moved the ceremony from the Tuscan Garden to cosy and ceremonial interior space. I am sure the couple were disappointed to not get married in the garden, but I was reminded of something my mother-in-law often said..."It is good luck if it rains on your wedding day."

Ceremony Tip: The most difficult moment of the day for the wedding officiant is getting everyone lined up to launch the procession. The wedding party today was quite attentive to me durig the critical pre-ceremony monents. When I placed them in a line - they stayed there. If you don't have a rehearsal, be sure to tell your wedding party what you expect of them during the ceremony, how the ceremony will be staged, where they will stand, and what will be happening during the ceremony. The more they know, the more they will do just what you want them to do.

This wedding kicks off "wedding season" for me in 2011. It's been nearly four months since my last wedding, and I've missed officiating at ceremonies, meeting new people, and doing the creative things I get to do in this work.

So I toast Fred and Adrienne...may the sun shine on all their days together!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Meet the New Celebrants!

2011-04-21T06:55:00.001-07:00

Last evening it was my priviledge to ordain the newest wedding celebrants in the NY/NJ/CT/PA area...soon to graduate from Celebrant Foundation and Institute.

The ordination ceremony, under the aegis of The Universal Brotherhood Movement, Inc., was solemn and happy, humorous and tearful, and, most of all - meaningful on many levels.

Each candidate for ordination spoke about their hopes and vision for their emerging wedding celebrant practice and ministry. As they spoke, they placed an object on the ceremonial table...an object representing the inspiration for their new work. There was a mother's necklace, a special tea, a heart-shaped box, a treasured fleur-de-lis piece of porcelain...to name a few.

For me it was a delight to meet these eight inspiring men and women. Each one of them is prepared to become a couple-focused, human-hearted celebrant. I wish them every success and satisfaction in their new work, and I welcome them into the fellowship of Celebrants.

Many thanks to Charlotte Eulette, the international director of Celebrant Foundation and Institute, for her hospitality and good cheer.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Valentines...Forever and Ever

2011-02-18T14:41:00.000-08:00

It's one of the best times of the year for a wedding officiant - Valentine's Day! This year I had the honor of officiating at a vow renewal ceremony for Matt and Robin who have been married for 31 years.

They selected a wonderful site for their ceremony...a charming and intimate wine cellar at "il Buco" in the Village. Of course, they included a wine ritual in their ceremony.

Both Matt and Robin collaborated with me privately so they could surprise the other with a gift. They each selected music that they played on their indidivual ipads for the other one. And they each wrote their new vows.

This couple were high school sweethearts who married pretty soon after high school graduation. In spite of their being young at that time, they have made their marriage work over the years...in good times and bad...mostly good! They raised two wonderful children who are doing well. They figured out how to conquer the challenges of life...relocation, tight budgets...the usual stresses of modern living. They are indeed Valentines forever and ever to each other.

As Robin said when she presented Matt with a new watch..."It's our time."

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Announcing Bride's Choice Award 2011

2011-02-03T12:23:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to share this press release from WeddingWire with you:

{New York, NY} – {February 3, 2011} - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce "Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!" has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 in the wedding officiant category.

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Julie Laudicina stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Julie Laudicina for her professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that "Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!" is among the very best of wedding officiants within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating Julie Laudicina to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 and our WeddingWire Storefront, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), ProjectWedding.com and Weddingbee.com (both part of eHarmony), and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).

On the Campus at Yale

2011-01-14T13:52:00.000-08:00

The wedding ceremony was at the Dwight Chapel at Yale University. The air was crisp, the candlelight made it cozy, and the music was inspiring as it reverberated throughout the gothic chapel.

Dave began by lighting a candle in memory of his father. I told their unique and charming love story which elicited laughter and tears. Close family members read such meaningful passages. Christina and Dave held their rings over their hearts as they said their vows. It was what you'd hope for every wedding ceremony...people at their best, beauty, happiness, and authentic shared moments.

The bride is an equine vet and the groom is a zip line consultant. They met at a rowing class; they got engaged in Key West; they are dashing and smart...but also kind and unassuming. It could be said the wedding was glamorous...but that would trivialize the genuine love and respect that this couple has for one another.

I'm so grateful for my friends Ray and Susan who brought me to Christina and Dave. My first wedding ceremony in Connecticut...unforgetable!

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

It Would Take More than A Blizzard to Stop Them!

2011-01-01T11:24:00.000-08:00

Liz and Geoff came from Sidney, Australia, to renew their marriage vows in New York City on Monday, Dec. 27...and what did they encounter - a crippling blizzard.

But those of us whom they had engaged to make this celebration come together - photographer, restaurant, and me - arranged a postponement that worked for everyone. Thanks to the gods of the calendar and holiday good will...and this resilient couple...we were able to reschedule the ceremony for Dec. 30.

Last Thursday was a beautiful, warm, sunny day at Battery Park...full of exuberant tourists and New Yorkers trying to shake off cabin fever. Liz and Geoff had their ceremony in front of floor to ceiling windows at Battery Gardens, overlooking the New York harbor. They rededicated themselves to one another...for another 37 years and more. Their granddaughters, Allison and Guilia looked on with affection.

Their familiy and friends send an array of greetings to be read during their ceremony. From hilarious to sentimental to loving...these remarks were received with surprise, laughter, and tears from Liz and Geoff.

The Battery Garden folks brought out champagne and cupcakes. Just the right amount of sweetness and bubbly to puntuate the event! So it all worked out...the blizzard changed their event, but what happened was just right for them...beautiful, meaningful, and oh, so New York!

Brian Friedman was taking pictures of the ceremony and the champagne toasts. I watched him out of the corner of my eye as he recorded every detail. I can't wait to see his shots. Hope his professional touch makes the image of the Statue of Liberty come through the haze in the background. I know his eye will have certainly captured the spirit of this delightful couple from Sidney!

Ceremony Idea: When you have a "destination ceremony," try to bring in a connection to that which you treasure from back home...your flag, a stone from your garden, a picture of family...or like this couple did - have messages from family and friends read to you by your officiant.

Snapshots by Joe Laudicina

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

From One Generation to the Next

2010-12-15T04:16:00.000-08:00

Aug sparked my interest when he called to find out if I was available to officiate at his wedding in two weeks. So I created their ceremony on rather short notice which is different from my usual way of operating.

Karen and Aug could have lived life as it was forever...but they were moved to make their long relationship legal when they learned that Karen's daughter was pregnant. Nothing like the coming of the next generation to give one pause to re-evaluate what is meaningful in one's life.

So several family and friends gathered at their home last Sunday. We needed lots of tissues to get through the ceremony, but the vows were spoken, their rings were warmed by all present, and everyone signed the keepsake certificate of marriage. Candles were lighted in honor of their parents and all the generations before them.

Life and love goes on...generation after generation.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Maine-ly It was Love

2010-11-29T11:51:00.000-08:00

It was a first for me...serving as a wedding officiant in Maine. The groom is a friend of twenty years, so it was an honor to be the one that "tied the knot" for Todor and Heather.

My husband and I had been in Bar Harbor the week before this ceremony...as passengers on the Qeeen Mary 2. We strolled around the town and stopped at the Saltair Inn where this ceremony would be taking place. We were cheerily greeted by the innkeepers, Matt and Kristi. I got a sneak preview of the space where the ceremony would take place. It was easy to see why Todor and Heather were bringing their immediate families to this place for their wedding weekend.

For the ceremony, we managed to have everyone present do something...traditional ring bearer and flower girl, two readers for one reading...once in Serbian, once in English...the bride's brother-in-law gave the blessing, and everyone held the wedding rings before they were presented by the bride and groom to each other. And everyone wore something red!

The bride placed symbolic items on the mantel...a watch that had belonged to her grandmother and a lucky $2 bill. Around her bouquet of wheat she had a piece of tatting done by her mother. She also lit a candle in memory of her mother...and the light was a bright spot in the rather gray day on the Maine coast.

A champagne toast, a sip of 21 yr. old Scotch, and whoopie pies...a wonderful post-ceremony treat. As Todor served the Scotch, I noticed his Superman cufflinks. I always love symbolic gestures for weddings!

I've seen the pictures of this unusual wedding by their Rogier of Eager Eye Photography. His pictures captured the intimate nature of this wedding and the delight and love between Todor and Heather. (Just a note: The pictures on this blog were taken by my husband, Joe.)

Yes, they are tall!

Ceremony Tip: For a small family wedding, the meaning of the wedding ceremony words and rituals are enhanced when family participates. Heather and Todor carefully carved out roles for each sibling and each parent. It made for a joyfully teary event for all.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Sometimes Things Happen

2010-11-19T11:14:00.000-08:00

At the last minute, the wedding officiant for Robert and Whitney could not be there. My friends on the Sales Staff at Nicotra's Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn on Staten Island called and asked if I could do their clients a favor...would I please do the ceremony. Without the support they consistently provide, I would have not taken on this work.

Fortunately my calendar was open, and I had just enough time to work with Robert and Whitney to personalize a ceremony for them. I wrote their love story, incorporated the readings they had already selected, recommended marriage vows, and wrote the ceremony's concluding blessings.

Their day arrived...sunny and warm for an autumn day...guest were seated, the procession went off perfectly. Who knew that this ceremony was all put together at the last minute!

Yes, sometimes things happen...and sometimes the solution works out just fine. I know Robert and Whitney were not disappointed in their wedding ceremony.

Ceremony Tip: Robert and Whitney chose several readings for their wedding ceremony. They asked three special relatives and friends to do the readings. These people did a wonderful job of conveying the meaning of the readings which added spiritual meaning for the couple. Choose your readings...and the readers...well.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Ten-Ten-Ten

2010-10-11T10:00:00.000-07:00

Every year there is a significant date that many couples want to have for their wedding day. This year that much sought after date was 10-10-10. I had many inquiries for that date, and it was my good fortune to have been hired quite early on by this charming, creative, and fully involved couple. They are a "10"!

Rebecca and Benjamin began planning their wedding day last year, and I could see that they were interested in making the day meaningful and putting a piece of themselves into every detail. They provided quite valuable input to the design and content of their ceremony. Because of they made a conscious choice to make their ceremony symbolic in many ways, it was a wonderful beginning for their entire celebration...and their married life together.

Being raised in different faiths, they incorporated rituals that had meaning to them from their background and from their mutuals interests. They selected two different rituals that involved circling. To begin the ceremony, they circled each other seven time...symbolizing that each is the center of the universe to the other. Then at the end of the ceremony they did another seven circles, this time together. Adapted from a Hindu wedding ritual, these seven steps around a "flame" (candle) symbolized the marriage pledges the bride and groom made to each other. Along with the vows and rings, the steps also sealed the marriage bond between Benjamin and Rebecca. You can see them taking the last step in this picture.

Just to make the ceremony all the more breathtaking was the backdrop of the working New York harbor and the Statue of Liberty outside the windows of Battery Gardens. Natural lighting in this venue is so dramatic. The ceremony was book-ended by bright sunshine at the outset and the colorful sky of sunset as they were declared husband and wife. (Just had to use the word "book" in this blog for this librarian bride!)

By the way, next year's date is Friday, 11-11-11. Be sure to book your wedding early.

Ceremony Tip: There are many wedding rituals that involve movement. Some of them involve the bride and groom moving. Others have the guests moving. As you select your favorite ritual, make sure the staging of your ceremony provides the space you need to do these movements. Don't forget to allow for the bride's dress. Rebecca and Benjamin worked this out ahead of time to make certain there was just the right amount of space to do the "circling."

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

The Bitter and The Sweet Together

2010-10-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

On a cool autumn evening, Chris and Nicole invited a small number of family and friends to join them to celebrate their marriage. The banquet room at Bocelli Restaurant in Staten Island was lighted in warm colors and the fall flowers added to the mood.

The ceremony was held in a circle - symbolizing the relationship of the bride and groom to each one in the room. They declared their marriage vows and exchanged wedding rings. Taking sips of both red and white wine, they symbolically pledged to take all that will come their way together...both the bitter and the sweet.

Ceremony Tip: If many of your guests are somewhat older and a bit skeptical about a non-religious wedding ceremony, take the time to talk to them about what this ceremony means to you and what your ceremony will include. Many of the older guests at this wedding said how impressed they were with this ceremony that they had been wondering about. A civil wedding can have meaning, a spiritual feeling, and a personal touch.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Intimate and Heartfelt

2010-10-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

It was a cool but sunny Sunday afternoon when a small group of family and friends gathered at Il Castello Restaurant in Woodbridge, NJ, for the wedding of Tanique and Thomas. This formally decorated restaurant had just the right space and lighting to facilitate the feeling of intimacy for this ceremony.

At the appointed time, Thomas and Tanique stood before their guests and declared their vows and exchanged rings. Thomas' daughter held the rings and presented them at the appropriate moment. The ceremony included the signing of the license and keepsake marriage certificate for all to witness.

Upon the declaration they were married, there was applause and cheering. And all present came forward to congratulate the newlyweds.

Ceremony Tip: This ceremony did not have a procession or recession. That added informality to the wedding, but it also reflected the wishes of the couple that their ceremony not be too stuffy. Beginning and ending the ceremony without a formal procession or recession works best if it is a small gathering.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Celebrating in Style

2010-10-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

Amy and Tim gathered a large group of relatives and friends for their wedding ceremony at The Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, NJ. Grandmother, parents, siblings, fellow fire-fighters, friends of all ages, and even their little dog...all present to celebrate their wedding.

The ceremony included their love story, original vows, the exchange of rings, and a rose ritual. All of this took place in a lovely ceremony setting in this catering venue.

Before the wedding, I watched as the venue knocked down the set-up for a bar mitzvah in the afternoon and transformed the room into a stunning setting for a wedding. It was a one hour miracle! So the next time you attend an event, take a moment to appreciate all the behind-the-scenes work that folks did to make a wonderful celebration for their clients.

Ceremony Tip: If your wedding ceremony is going to be in a large venue that may hold several events on your wedding day, work with them to make sure your schedule meshes realistically with their work load. For example, if you plan on having a walk through at the site on the day of the wedding...make sure your room will be available or there is some other provision for a day-off rehearsal.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Love with Accents of Blue

2010-10-07T05:14:00.001-07:00

UK citizens Lyn and Mark started interviewing their wedding vendors last year on a visit to New York. They returned in the spring to make final arrangements. Each time I met them, we worked hard, made good decisions, and had great fun. We became friends.

So it was a special for me to officiate at their wedding on the rooftop terrace at Kitano New York. The weather was wonderful, their guests from around the world were excited, and Mark and Lyn saw all their careful planning come together just as they hoped it would.

In their ceremony I told their love story, they included two readings, and they used traditional vows. Like wedding ceremonies in the UK, they signed the legal documents as part of the ceremony.

Most of us at the wedding wore some shade of blue in honor of Mark's favorite football/soccer team. Come to think of it, I never did ask him the name of the team!

It was a surprise and pleasure to cross paths again with photographer Brian Friedman. He is truly fine person in addition to being a skilled and artistic photographer. I like that he respects his clients so much. I think that his respect and affection for them as people makes for great photographs. Here are a couple of his pictures from this wedding.

Ceremony Idea: You don't have to have your wedding party stand with you during the ceremony. You can see in the picture at the top of this post that the wedding party was seated in the front row. This freed up space for the bride and groom in a rather narrow area. And it nicely placed the focus where it should be...on Mark and Lyn!

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Centerstage at the Cherry Lane Theatre

2010-10-06T13:08:00.000-07:00

Beth and Patrick wanted a simple and meaningful wedding ceremony. They wanted their closest family and friends around them, and they wanted it to be a real "Manhattan" day.

So they arranged for their ceremony to be in the West Village on the stage at the famous Cherry Lane Theatre, the oldest continuously operating off-Broadway theatre in New York. Recent renovations made the space inviting, and the stage was just the perfect size for them to be surrounded by their guests for the ceremony.

Because they come from different faiths, they wanted a ceremony that was reverent, but not denominational. We opened with a moment of silence during which I invited everyone to become spiritually present for the ceremony. The two sets of parents did a reading in unison, and the bride and groom wrote their own vows.

As I do for many small and intimate ceremonies, I had their wedding rings passed to all present...to imbue them with symbolic warmth and good wishes for the couple.

After breaking the glass at the end of the ceremony, it was time for a few pictures and then off to lunch at a restaurant next door to the theatre. From my perspective, this was indeed a "Manhattan" wedding!

Ceremony Idea: Having a small group of guests offers flexibilty as your work with your officiant to design your ceremony. You can probably find ways to involve all present. Your family can be physically very close to you. You can be informal as you like...loved that Patrick didn't wear a tie! You can take time with the elements of the ceremony that mean the most to you.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

They Came From New Zealand

2010-10-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

My first contact with the groom Stuart was a telephone call from New Zealand...yes, New Zealand!

Stuart and Sarah wanted to know if I could perform their wedding ceremony on the top of the Empire State Building because Sarah always wanted to do that after having seen "Sleepless in Seattle." I explained that the Empire State Building is only open for weddings on Valentines Day..and would Central Park do?

They agreed and then sent the information I needed to write their ceremony. They liked the first draft of the ceremony...so we were set to go. They called me from the road between California and New York to confirm they had actually arrived in the US.

With four friends and a proudly displayed NZ flag, Stuart and Sarah were married in Central Park by the Bethesda Fountain. There were several intimate and emotional moments...as they exchanged vows and wedding rings.

I think Sarah was pleased with her New York City wedding. And their limo driver whisked them all off to go to the top of the Empire State Building after the ceremony to recreate the spirit of Sarah's dream of being at that spot on her wedding day.

Ceremony Tip: If you are thinking of a destination wedding ceremony in New York City, know there are many options for an outdoor ceremony at an iconic spot...Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and Battery Park to name a few. But do check that the place you have in mind is one that is not closed to ceremonies (even small and short ones).

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

The Timing was Right

2010-09-23T06:05:00.000-07:00

Megan and Phil met on the Jersey Shore many years ago. Their paths crossed now and then, but one or the other was always involved with someone else. A couple years ago they ran into each other at a diner, and this time neither was involved. They started dating and made up for lost time with newly discovered romance. This was long overdue, and they are quite a match!

Their wedding ceremony was at Island Chateau, a one-event-at-a-time venue on Staten Island. You can't find more client-focused management and staff! I also observed the respectful and careful work of their photographer, Angel, of Photography Elite Inc.

Just before the ceremony, the couple and their witnesses gathered in a private room to sign the license and keepsake certificate. It was a quiet moment in the midst of excitement that helped all of us focus our emotions and thoughts on the ceremony to follow.

While Megan was beautiful, especially in a bridal crown worn by her mother and her aunt in their weddings, it was Phil and his entourage who definitely stole the show with their unusual tuxedos and cool hats. Somehow, these suits were made for these charming and exhuberant men!

Ceremony Tip: Don't forget to schedule time for the signing of your marriage license on your wedding day. It only takes a couple minutes - but it is a significant part of the ceremonial things you do that day. Determine who your witnesses will be ahead of time and formally ask them..it is an honor you bestow on them. Decide if you want to have photographs of this moment. Be sure to give your parents the opportunity to be present. Another option is to sign the documents during the ceremony.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Loves Makes it REAL

2010-09-22T12:27:00.000-07:00

Andrea and Phil arrived on foot for their wedding ceremony in the Ladies Pavilion in the Hernshead area of Central Park. This lacy ironwork structure is just the right size for an intimate ceremony...just the bride and groom...and me.

Phil was quite dapper...decked out in his formal wear. And Andrea's lovely silk dress with the hemline ringed with flowers was a knock-out. I'm not a fasion maven, but they were delightfully gorgeous on their wedding day. As the Brits would say..."Simply loverly."

But they were rather quiet, reflective, and a bit tearful during the ceremony. Glad I had some tissue...and pleased that their ceremony was so meaningful to them.

I wish them the best as they go back home to London for a couple parties with family and friends, and then off to Croatia for their honeymoon.

Now I can't wait to see the photographs their photographer,Brian Friedman,took. I keep checking his blog everyday...let's see them soon, Brian, because I know they will be stunning.

Ceremony idea: Consider picking a reading from chidren's literature...something that has had meaning from when you first read it. Phil and Andrea picked a passage from The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams...a passage about becoming REAL when you are loved.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Podcast about Tina and Paul's Wedding Vendors

2010-09-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

Photo by TimothyGlenn Photographers

As part of a project by the NJ Chapter of the American Bridal Consultants organization, I volunteered my services, along with other wedding vendors, to a bride and groom last June. The bride has Stage IV breast cancer, so their wedding was a wonderful day in their lives which are so deeply impacted by her illness.

You can hear my voice on a podcast by Wedding Podcast Network. This program was a recap of what this wedding was like for us who provided products and services. My part of the podcast is in the second half of the program.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

An Auspicious Day to Get Married

2010-09-09T14:24:00.000-07:00

After doing many wedding ceremonies in Central Park, finally...finally a couple took my suggestion of having their ceremony by Bethesda Fountain. It is such an iconic location...there's covering if it rains...you can see the beauty of the park as well as the skyline of the city...it's just lovely.

Mark and Linda, along with family and friends from Australia, Germany, and the US, celebrated their wonderful love story in their wedding ceremony. They met on Melbourne Cup Day 2008, got engaged on Melbourne Cup Day in 2009...and then decided to get married in NYC on...well, no it wasn't Melbourne Cup Day 2010. But it was the first day of school, Fashion Week, the eve of Rosh Hashanah, and the U.S Open was into the finals. So their wedding date was a big day here.

We did the ceremony on a grassy hill somewhat away from the fountain area because there was a persistent saxaphone player whose music we thought wasn't exactly the music the bride and groom wanted. But the observant musician won our hearts when he played "Here Comes The Bride" as the bride and groom kissed. Only in New York!

Thank you, Georgie and Paul, for recommending me to Mark and Linda. It's good to know I have friends in Brisbane.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

A Wedding Journey - West Coast to East Coast

2010-09-02T12:41:00.001-07:00

Until we have marriage equality in this country, same-sex couples find they have to be creative about how to get married, and Deirdre and Claire were very creative. They had a wedding ceremony at the foot of Mt. Baker, WA, with their West Coast friends and family in July. Then the journey came to the East Coast last Sunday with a gathering of East Coast family and friends.

It was my honor to lead a ceremony at The Lake Club on Staten Island. In the ceremony, Claire and Deirdre removed their wedding rings and passed them among all the guests for their blessings. They put the rings in a handmade box (by Claire for Deirdre for their first Christmas), and they took the box to Connecticut the next day for their legal marriage.

Deirdre's brother gave an equally emotional and rational toast in support of marriage rights, which was followed by words I read from a Massachusetts court decision. From Justice Marshall:

... Civil marriage is at once a deeply personal commitment to another human being and a highly public celebration of the ideals of mutuality, companionship, intimacy, fidelity, and family.... The decision whether and whom to marry is among life's momentous acts of self-definition.

It is undoubtedly for these concrete reasons, as well as for its intimately personal significance, that civil marriage has been long termed a ‘civil right.’ Without the right to choose to marry, one is excluded from the full range of human experience.

I congratulate Deirdre and Claire for their "momentous act of self-definition" by marrying each other. May there come a time soon when all American can marry the person they choose.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Wedding in the Gazebo

2010-09-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

Bevin and Eric enjoyed the presence of their closest family and friends at their wedding ceremony in the dramatic gazebo at Nicotra's Ballroom at The Hilton Garden Inn.

Eric proposed to Bevin on a moonlit night in a sandy beach in St. Lucia. To link their wedding ceremony with their engagement night...they included a ritual with sand in their wedding ceremony. In this ritual, they poured two colors of sand into a glass vase. The colors of the sand matched the colors of their wedding, blue and green. As the two colored sands mingled, so too do the lives of this bride and groom. The photo below shows the sand after the ceremony at the reception.

Ceremony Tip: For a summer day, consider having your ceremony in the late morning. Bevin and Eric were rather comfortable in the late morning shade inside the gazebo. We all had "cool heads" during this ceremony.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Tenth Anniversary - Vows Renewed

2010-08-31T12:30:00.000-07:00

Wendy and Darren were married ten years ago by a castle in England where they live. They graced NYC with their presence here to celebrate their 10th Anniversary and renew their marriage vows in Central Park.

They held their wedding rings over their hearts as they pledged their undying love anew. With sweetness in their voices, some tears of joy in their eyes, and with clear love and devotion to each other, they now enter the second decade of their marriage.

Ceremony Idea: For a vow renewal ceremony, remove your wedding rings to you can re-present them to your spouse again...with renewed words of love and commitment. Hold your rings over your heart when you declare your new vows.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Morning Wedding in the Rose Garden

2010-08-29T07:58:00.001-07:00

It was early morning - the time when the Brooklyn Botanical Garden opens just for wedding ceremonies. We gathered at one entrance and walked together to the rose garden. There under a wonderfully shady pergola, Meghan and John said their vows.

Over Meghan's shoulder I saw another couple I'd married about four years ago...with their two beautiful young daughters. It's not often I get to see how my couples develop into families.

Of course, the other distinguishing aspect of this gathering is that John is a tattoo artist -so body art was everywhere. Each tattoo seemed to fit the person. The designs were intricate and full of care and symbolism. You can see John's work under his artist name - Mohawk John.

When John proposed to Meghan, he tattoed "will you marry me" on his knee. Meghan's tattoed her response just below that tattoo. I like that his fingers have tattoos that read "Stay True." That's a marriage formula that I hope works for them.

Ceremony Tip: Early morning (after 9 a.m.) ceremonies in the Brooklyn Botanical Garden are quiet and private. There are several options for dramatic settings, the garden is not open to the public yet, and the permit is not outrageously expensive.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Equal Partners in Life

2010-08-09T10:09:00.000-07:00

When I arrived for Carlos and Deborah's wedding, I saw a couple I had married four yers ago installing and decorating the chupah for this wedding. We barely had time to greet each other as they hustled to complete this labor of love for her friend, the bride. I enjoyed watching them work as a team...a good marriage, I'd say!

Carlos and Deborah began the ceremonial portion of their wedding celebration with a private signing ceremony...signing the Ketubah and the NYC marriage license. With only their parents and two witnesses present, Carlos and Deborah read the promises written on the Ketubah in unison to each other...promises made as "equal partners in life."

Then the public ceremony began with a traditional procession highlighted by the arrival of three angel-like flower girls. The ceremony included readings, vows, exchange of rings, lighting a unity candle, and the traditional breaking of the glass. Throughout, the towering Carlos was attentive and serious, and Deborah was smiling and delighted.

Check out their unique Staten Island venue...great for a medium sized wedding (50-70 guests)..Little Shop Studios.

Ceremony Tip:
Carlos and Deborah asked me to begin the ceremony with a moment of silence...a moment for guests and the wedding party to take a deep breath, leave the nerve-wracking pressure of wedding preparation behind, and become mentally "present" for the ceremony. I recommend this idea. I noticed that the silence served as a catalyst for focusing the wedding party and the guests on the here and now. The bride and groom seemed relaxed and ready to participate in their ceremony with clear heads.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Everything's Up to Date in New York City

2010-07-22T08:51:00.000-07:00

After a heartfelt serenade from one of their friends that told of "the long and broken road that lead me straight to you"...Tom and Lori spoke their vows and exchanged rings. It was a metaphorical long road that lead them from their Kansas City home to one of their favorite destinations - New York City - for their wedding day.

The ceremony took place on the rooftop of the Midtown Loft & Terrace...with views of the city in all four directions. It was warm (well, HOT) and breezy as their guests heard their love story, two appropriate readings, and the music from a string quartet.

This was the first time in one of my ceremonies that the bride got two rings...one for each side of her engagement ring. So I had the groom say some "I give you his ring" words twice.

It was my pleasure to work on this wedding with the wedding planners at Juliet Events. They kept me informed and they gave me lovely compliments on the first draft of the ceremony script. Thank you, Alida and Angela.

I'm always fascinated by wedding photographers...just when you think there isn't possibly another creative shot...you see them doing something unusual and cool. Check out the blog for this wedding by the talented team from NicoleMarie.

After the ceremony, it was cocktails on the roof as the sun set to the west and the lights of the Empire State building came on...the signal to start the celebration!

Ceremony Tip: Destination weddings are not easy to arrange. You may not know typical prices here, and you may be concerned about how to mesh NYC culture wity yours. Tom and Lori came to NYC a couple times to meet with their planner and vendors. My meeting with them was a huge benefit to me as it facilitated my getting to know what they wanted in their ceremony more clearly and deeply than we could have done just by email. I think their ceremony was greatly enhanced because we had some "face time" well before their wedding day.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Paul and Tina's Wedding

2010-07-14T13:08:00.001-07:00

It was my honor to officiate at the wedding of Paul and Tina at the Monmouth Battlefield State Park, and here's why. The NJ Chapter of the Association of Bridan Consultants recruited several of us wedding service providers to donate our products and services for this couple. While Tina had encountered some problems making arrangements for her wedding, the most compelling elements of her story is that she is courageously battling Stage IV breast cancer.

You might think it would be difficult to create a personal wedding ceremony for a couple in this situation, but Tina and Paul joyfully shared their hopes and dreams with us all as we prepared for their wedding. With their openness about their love story, they made it easy for me to create a wedding ceremony tailored just for them.

Their photographer Timothy Glenn captured the spirit of the day beautifully. I used his photographs for this blog...thank you! If you read his blog on this wedding, he did a wonderful job of acknowledging all the vendors who participated in this wedding.

There were flowers for the wedding party and to decorate the ceremony space in the park. There was relaxing music before the ceremony, and loud and joyful music for the reception. The printed materials were elegant and beautiful. And all throughout the day there was the caring support of wedding planners from The Finishing Touch. Everything seemed to come together as a gift from the heart from all of us for Tina and Paul.

Just as I was leaving the cocktail hour, I heard the D.J. announce what would have been the bride and groom's first dance...but this was different. Paul serenaded his bride...he had a stunning powerful singing voice, and his message to Tina was of his unconditional love for her and all that is to come in their life together. I was blown away, and of course in tears.

Click here for a write up of this wedding in the Asbury Park Press.

Ceremony Tip: Tina did not want to enter her wedding ceremony in a wheelchair. We spent time brainstorming options for Tina...and one was found. The solution to this problem was found at a store that rents "props" for international weddings, specifically Indian weddings. So the men in the wedding party carried Tina in a sedan-like chair. Don't think there is any unsolvable situation for your ceremony...engage your professionals, and we'll come up with a creative solution.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

First Wedding Ceremony at the NYPL

2010-07-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

Avery and Will consciously chose to be surrounded by books and immortal words for their wedding ceremony...as symbolic of the seriousness of declaring their marriage vows. So, appropriately, the setting was the third floor rotunda of the New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue and 42nd Street.

The music was devine...thank you, Steven and La Belle Musique, Inc. The florist created arrangements that were in scale for this grand venue...and with a subtle, elegant color palate. The entire design of the wedding celebration, it's execution with a very high degree of professionalism, and ultimate magic all around was husbanded (nice word for a wedding blog, no?) by Francesca, of Francesca Events.

The NYPL staff member who heads their special events department told me this was the first wedding ceremony at the main library. Note that a major requirement of weddings held at the NYPL is that the ceremony be exclusively a civil one...no religious references or rituals.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

It Translates to Love

2010-07-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

Bernd and Anna bring at least three languages to their marriage...American, German, and Russian. Then layer their cherished religious backgrounds, Jewish and Lutheran, and you have a wonderful cultural and spiritual melange.

At Grand Prospect Hall in Brooklyn, their parents witnessed a ritual-filled ceremony that gave a nod to their backgrounds...lighting a unity candle, blessing the challah bread, and breaking the glass. It was all joyful!

To engage the various family and guests, two translators worked side by side with me to speak portions of the ceremony in the language guests would understand...one in German and one in Russian.

This physician and university professor are blessed with good fortune and strong family ties...Mazeltov and Viel Gluck!

Ceremony Tip: Here are the bridesmaids after the ceremony...wilted. Don't forget to think about the ambiance of your ceremony location when you make your plans. If it could rain, or be hot or cold, or noisy...prepare for the worst case scenario and you will be glad you did. And yes, I wilted too!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

It was HOT HOT HOT at Chacala NY!

2010-06-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

For a very urban couple, it was a very sophisticaged urban wedding setting - Chacala NY, a trendy cool party space just south of Canal Street on Broadway. The ceremony began with the procession of their rather large wedding party...who formed a horseshoe shaped backdrop for the Devin and Natalie who stood with me in the center.

Afternoon sun beamed in on the couple...and it was hot...sweaty hot for us all. But their love story was told, vows were declared, and rings exchanged. The groom wrote to me, "Everyone thought you were a hit, and your ceremony was one of the brightest moments of our wedding."

I was intrigued by the pictures their photographer set up in the alley behind Chacala NY.

Ceremony Tip: Natalie and Devin's love story, a 2-3 minute portion of the ceremony, had humor and detail about their romance. For some couples, the thought of having their love story told is daunting. But the response to this ceremony from the family and other guests is one piece of proof that this is an aspect of a celebrant-officiated ceremony that really makes the day unique and memorable.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Resort Wedding

2010-06-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

For the family and the wedding party, it was like a destination wedding without the airplane ride. Garrett and Kimberly's wedding at Crystal Springs Resort near Vernon, NJ, was like going to another place...sunny skies, long mountain vistas, dramatic architecture.

Ceremony Tip: Kimberly and Garrett incorporated a wine ritual in their ceremony to compliment the wine theme of their reception. Each of them picked out a bottle of wine they thought the other would like. I prepared a keepsake copy of their marriage vows. The wine and the vows were placed in a wooden box during the ceremony. The box will be sealed and then opened on their Firth Anniversary. This ritual tied the ceremony to their reception theme, and it provides a link from this day to a special day in their future. "The Wine in the Box" is something for them to look forward to, a reminder of their beautiful wedding day out in the hills of New Jersey.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

At the Bow Bridge with Her Beau

2010-06-21T09:54:00.000-07:00

Daranee and Mark came with a small group of family and friends from South Australia for their destination wedding celebration in New York City.

The day was perfect...after we changed the day and time of the ceremony to dodge some pesky rain showers. Daranee and Mark wanted the Bow Bridge to be the backdrop for their ceremony, and they found just the right spot.

At the outset of the ceremony, their wedding rings were passed among those present. The rings were held by the guests and imbued with good wishes before the bride and groom exchanged them during the ceremony.

The love story I wrote for them alluded to the role of fate or chance in their meeting which took place at the Union Hotel in Adelaide. Two groups of friends gathered for an evening out...and Mark and Daranee's eyes met as the two groups mingled. You can almost hear the music!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Marriage and the Baby Carriage

2010-06-21T09:44:00.001-07:00

They had not actually thought about getting married, but when they found out there was a baby on the way, Tina and Paul decided to go to "city hall" to take care of that formality. But Paul's brother intervened and suggested the two families and some close friends join them for a small informal wedding just before their baby shower.

And so it happened at a small private outdoor spot at The Hilton Garden Inn a couple Saturdays ago. They spoke their vows and exchanged rings. Good wishes were spread around. Their parents got to be with them for the moment they "tied the knot." I think the moment was certainly more memorable and meaningful than the trip to "city hall."

Let me know when Baby arrives!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Somewhere Over The Rainbow

2010-06-08T11:16:00.000-07:00

It has been my delight to be the wedding celebrant for two weddings in a family...a sister and a cousin. Last Sunday it was the second sister's wedding. Three weddings in one family...it doesn't get better!

Megan and Sal's family and friends gathered at Pantagis Renaissance in Scotch Plains, NJ for their ceremony and reception. Sal and I were experienceing the warm temperature in the ceremony room...but Megan was totally cool and beautiful.

Sal's godfather did a reading, the vows were traditional and heartfelt, and a lilting version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow signaled the ceremony was over.

I was thinking...there's another sister. And there's Katie, the junior bridesmaid, who is in the next generation. I hope they keep asking me back.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Imagine...Getting Married in NYC

2010-05-31T09:41:00.000-07:00

The perfect day in Central Park, and just the day Rebecca and Steve wanted. We gathered on the shore of the lake at Hernshead, with the skyline of 59th Street in the background. A couple "love ducks" joined the guests on the rocks...to remind us of our connection to the larger world of nature in the park.

This idyllic ceremony included marriage vows, rings, readings by friends, and signing the marriage license...all with the magic of the park and the city around us. Rebecca and Steve met in London, became engaged in Australia, and got married in New York City...for their "round the world" love story.

They walked to Strawberry Fields to take pictures, and they took a pedicyle ride to the Plaza hotel for champagne and cake. The cake was prepared by Steve's step-mother in her home in the Outer Hebrides and brought especially for this celebration.

Ceremony Tip: For a Central Park ceremony, A Central Park permit for Hernshead is different from a permit for the Ladies Pavillion in Hernshead. If you want the pavillion, you need to be specifically indicate the pavillion.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

From Western Australia, High School Sweethearts United

2010-05-26T08:57:00.000-07:00

Their high school romance ended as so many young romances do, but they never forgot each other. Reunited years later, they decided to come to NYC for a destination wedding.

With two children in tow, Toni and Paul declared their vows along side a lake in Central Park, near the Bow Bridge. They also declared "vows" to the children, as Paul's parents and uncle looked on.

Toni received a Trinity ring from Paul, and Paul's ring is a tattoo of Toni's name...to forever remind him of her love for him and his vows to her.

It was a pleasure for me to reunite with photographer, Missy, from Missy Photography. She photographed a wedding I did last year at the Chart House. I've seen some of her shots from this wedding already...lovely! I really like her shot of the four sets of hands joined together which was taken as the couple made their vows to the kids.

When I was processing Toni and Paul's marriage license in my office, I had to look up on Mapquest where they live - Dunsborough, Western Australia. Wow, it is really far from here...of course! I'm so glad they made the trip so I could meet them and be part of their long awaited wedding day.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

At the Last Minute

2010-05-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

A request for a last minute wedding ceremony is usually turned down by me. I am cautious about potential problems - problems that may only be in my imagination. But Jeff's conversation about his ceremony that was scheduled to occur in two days and they didn't have an officiant...well, his story was enticing. I heard myself say "OK."

The ceremony was held in the intimate back patio of iCi Restaurant in the Fort Greene section of Brooklyn. Their regular dining menu looked enticing...organic and locally grown food...modest prices. Their herb garden greeted all of us as we assembled in their patio. But enough about the food....

With only their closest of family and friends surrounding them, Jeff and Christa declared their marriage vows, exchanged rings, and signed the marriage documents. Both sets of parents participated...the fathers doing the readings and the mothers presenting the wedding rings. And Jeff and Christa each had a "Best Person" for their wedding party.

I'll be looking for their wedding pictures on their photographer Kelly's blog. I was watching her take pictures, and it was fun to watch her work. And she's a Pulitizer Prize winner!

Wedding Tip: If you are arranging a wedding on a short timeline, be sure to explain why you want the services of someone in the wedding industry. We are all booked many months in advance...but we all have holes in our schedules. Just let us know you are serious, why you'd like our services, and that you are not going to waste our time. We'll be glad to serve you!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Welcome New Celebrants!

2010-04-23T08:32:00.000-07:00

Last evening it was my honor to ordain this year's group of NY/NJ-based Celebrants who have completed the wedding course at Celebrant Foundation and Institute. This group of four was ordained into the long-standing humanist organization, Universal Brotherhood Movement, Inc.

Because this ceremony coincided with Earth Day, I included several references to the day in my remarks. You can see that each candidate for ordination lighted a candle to set the stage for the ceremony, and there were four representations of the earth on the ceremonial table...one globe for each candidate. Each one was given a smooth river stone upon ordination, and each one placed an object symbolic of the gifts she brings to her celebrant practice.

I wish you all the best as you begin your ministry and service to couples as a new Celebrant...Ivy, Sacha, Kim, and Marion.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Bridal Expo at Nicotra' s Ballroom

2010-04-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Nicotra's Ballroom, a multi-faceted venue for an entire wedding event, provides prospective brides and their bridesmaids a wonderful expo of all the vendors they may use for their upcoming weddings. It is my priviledge to showcase my services several times a year - just like last Tuesday.

During the evening, I spoke to several couples who are looking for a civil wedding celebrant. Several others looked at my display which included my portfolio, pictures, and ideas for customized wedding ceremony rituals. Who know...they may mention my name to friends!

I loved the opportunity to cross market with fellow exhibitors.

I wore Lauren Kane Jewelry...selected to match my skin tone, the neckline of my outfit, and the lighting in the room. It was difficult to give back the necklace and earrings at the end of the evening. Check out all the pictures of her jewelry for brides, bridesmaids, and mothers of the bride in the most recent issue of Manhattan Bride magazine.

Being positioned right next to the Love Doves at the expo, I got to help their prospective couples get an idea on how a dove release could be incorporated into an outdoor ceremony.

It is always my delight to recommend Piano Stylist, John Rotante. In addition to the wonderful cocktail hour music he plays, his processional music sets the tone for the ceremony and it adds elegance for the entrance of the bride.

And thank you always, Portraits by Joanne, for giving me photographs from weddings I have done. Her pictures tell the story of the wedding ceremony so beautifully.

What a collaborative group...here's to a great wedding season for all of us.

Thought for the day: When you are selecting your wedding venue, ask about their preferred vendors. These people are experienced working together to make all the aspects of your wedding day go smoothly. The preferred vendors also know how to make your venue work for them. For example, I rely on the sound system at Nicotra's Ballroom. It's always there; it always works. So you get the best from me because Nicotra's Ballroom knows what I need and they support me.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Wedding Planner Class Made the News

2010-04-15T08:36:00.000-07:00

The Staten Island Advance carried an article yesterday about the wedding and event planning course at Wagner College.

Thank you, Marissa Mortimer, for mentioning my name among your guest presenters. I look forward to speaking with Wagner College's summer wedding planning class.

Thought for the day: Pursue your dreams if you want to work in any aspect of the the wedding industry. It's a field that hasn't slowed down much in this tight economy. But do know that is is hard work - long hours, detailed arrangements, and lots of emotions. However, the people you get to work with...clients and fellow professionals...make it worthwhile and fulfilling.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

First Ceremony in the Tuscan Garden

2010-04-11T08:17:00.001-07:00

It was the first wedding ceremony in the new Tuscan Garden at Snug Harbor on Staten Island. A beautifully restored Italinate building serves as the grand entrance to the garden, and the formal design of the garden lends itself well to a wedding procession and ceremony. This ceremony space will only get better as the plantings mature.

The bride Dima was a vision of wispy beauty, her veil swirling in the gentle breeze, as she walked down the long aisle. It was my honor to share that moment with the groom Peter, standing in adoration of his bride as she walked toward him.

Dima and Peter met and subsequently became engaged in a yoga class. Deeply engaged in the spiritual aspects of yoga, they coached me on how to talk about their vision of marriage. With beautiful readings, delightful remarks from their yoga teacher, and a serenade from Peter's nephew, it was an emotional and meaningful ceremony for Peter and Dima.

I wish all the best to the folks at "Neptunes at Snug Harbor," the catering and event space group who manages this venue. They certainly were welcoming and supportive of the part I played in this ground-breaking ceremony for them.

Ceremony Idea: This bride and groom wanted to be seated, facing their guests, during the initial part of the ceremony. Two chairs were placed off to one side of the ceremony space for them. (Their Best Man and Maid of Honor had seats in the front row.) After my introduction, remarks from their teacher, the readings and a musical piece, The wedding party stood and took their places for the vows and ring exchange. If for some reason you are concerned about standing for the entire ceremony, consider being seated for part of it.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

A Time to Refresh

2010-04-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

Even though weddings occur throughout the year, there are definitely times when fewer weddings are scheduled. As winter ends, so ends some cyclical "down time" for me. In addition to cleaning out my files, updating my advertising materials, and editing my web site, I have used this time to do some fun marketing activities.

The sales staff at Nicotra's Ballroom invited me to talk to them about what a civil wedding officiant does, what is unique about my services, and how I can partner with them to better serve their clients. They really treat their couples well and provide first rate service. It's a bonus that they also make my work so easy when I officiate at a wedding there.

A week ago I gave a presentation to Wagner College's Extension Program for wedding and event planners. Marissa Mortimer is the instructor; she is also the owner of Lavish Occasions. The class was energetic about the discussion of wedding ceremonies in general and civil ceremonies in detail. We also talked a bit about what you have to do when you are a "start up" company. Marissa sent me this picture of my presentation to her class.

Tomorrow I am going to jewelry designer Lauren Kane's studio. We are going to explore ways of "cross marketing" what we do. More later...

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Put Your Best Foot Forward

2010-03-21T08:08:00.001-07:00

Anthony and Barbara both put their best foot forward as they made their way down the aisle to get married in gazebo at Nicotra's Ballroom at The Hilton Garden Inn on Staten Island, NY.

Who would have thought an outdoor wedding on March 19th would have been comfortably warm! It must have been a gift for all the Italians present on St. Joseph's Day.

This couple wanted a short and simple ceremony. While I wanted to add elements to enrich their ceremony, I kept hearing a small voice saying, "Short and simple..." So I createed just what they wanted...and they loved it. You don't have to have an elaborate ceremony to touch the heart and say what you want said.

Anthony wore his "shades." Barbara wore her "over the top" boots. Both true to themselves...and now true to each other.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

After 25 Years...Renewed Vows

2010-03-14T08:58:00.001-07:00

I just realized that I missed "blogging" about a ceremony I did in December 2009...a charming and warm vow renewal ceremony. It was such a lovely ceremony that I have to include it in this record.

Michele and Michael came from the UK with their two children to celebrate their 25th anniversary in New York City. Ice skating in Central Park, the opera, and shopping were some of the things they did as a family.

But on December 1, the exact date of their wedding twenty-five years ago, the two of them renewed their vows. I retold their love story, they exchanged new rings, and all present read little sayings of marriage wisdom. Among the humorous sayings was one by Phyllis Diller; "Never go to bed angry. Stay up and fight."

Michele and her daughter had dresses made for the day. The hotel room was decorated with balloons and flowers. And we shared a champagne toast when the ceremony was completed. The family left for a luncheon at a special restaurant.

Michele wrote this to me after they were home from their memorable New York trip:
"Can I firstly say to you, Julie: Thank you very very much for our vow renewal service. The service was pitched at exactly the right level of informality mixed with formality and we were all delighted. Can we next thank Joe for his skills behind the camera lens. We now have live moving images of that day and those memories can now be shared family and friends who could not be there with us. It was such a very special day and we will be forever grateful for the ceremony that you put together."

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Cupid's Arrow Hit the Mark

2010-02-15T07:37:00.000-08:00

The wedding ceremony of Jake and Alyse was in the dramatic foyer of The Palace in Somerset, NJ. The procession was stunning as the wedding party came down the split staircase. In the picture above, you see that they had their parents stand with them during the ceremony...and the parents loved it.

The ceremony began with my telling their wonderful love story. In nearly all the wedding ceremonies I create, the love story is a focal point. This was especially true for Alyse and Jake's wedding ceremony. Their story of long distance romance that survived obstaces because of their deep love for one another was compelling. Vowing to love one another for life...the best Valentine ever!

Ceremony Tip: The flower girl in this wedding ceremony was very young, too young to walk down the aisle herself. Her father, the brother of the bride, carried her and helped her toss the flower petals. It was cute, it was stressfree for the little girl, and she had her dad there to help. So, one way to include very young children in your wedding ceremony is to have them complete their role with a trusted adult with them throughout the ceremony.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

It's the Words

2010-01-08T06:41:00.000-08:00

Greg and Eileen, professor and physician, were married in a wedding ceremony in the presence of a large gathering at the Women's Club of Glen Ridge, NJ. From near and far, representing all facets of their lives, friends and family came to witness and share in this emotional wedding.

At one point in the ceremony, tissues were coming from all directions to support this bride and groom. It almost became a slap-stick routine. But it was a wonderful way to keep the bride and groom from dissolving in tears of joy.

The words...their carefully crafted love story; poetry selected thoughtfully by their matchmaker; their vows - written by them...and even memorized by the groom;..the words made the ceremony into a celebration of what Eileen and Greg are all about as individuals and as a couple.

I met them through a referral from a former colleague whose daughter was the matchmaker. You never know....

Ceremony Idea: Do consider writing your own vows. Your own words, whether lofty or down-to-earth, represent you and the feelings from your heart. You don't have to memorize them...you can read them or do the "repeat after me" thing. It's the content that counts. And it's the inevitable ring of truth when the words come from you that have impact in the wedding ceremony...and lasting meaning between the two of you.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

The Gifts of Marriage

2009-12-29T11:06:00.000-08:00

Using the theme of gifts and giving in their wedding ceremony, I talked about what Lewis and Christina have given and will continue to give to each other...trust, commitment, and love. To illustrate my remarks, I had their grammar-school-age children open gifts. In each gift there was a card with one of the theme words written on it, for example, "TRUST."

The children were further involved in the wedding ceremony in the lighting of a family unity candle and the presentation of a family medallion to each child. There are several suppliers of these candles and medallions on the internet. Just search on "family medallion."

It was moving to see each member of this family show emotions and joy during this ceremony that was held in a suite at the Waldoft Astoria. Only the bride and groom and three children were present. Well, there was also me, two musicians, the florist, the food service men with the cake,and the photographer, but who noticed!

The couple engaged the wedding planners at The Finishing Touch to make the arrangements for them because they live in another state. Nicole and Julie pulled all the details together (hotel, photographer, florist, make-up and hair, musicians, wedding cake, and me) so the bride and groom could focus on the ceremony and each other.

Wedding Tip: You won't see pictures of the couple and the children in this blog because I agreed to alter my usual contract wording at this couple's request. I agreed not use snapshots that my husband took at the wedding in my marketing or blog. So know you can always ask for what you want from any of your wedding vendors...and most of the time we can do what you want and ask for.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

It's Christmas Time in the City

2009-12-26T12:41:00.000-08:00

Grant and Skye, arriving in New York City from summer in Australia, got here just in time to have their wedding ceremony the day after a huge snowfall. The severe weather quit, folks were all over the city, and, cold aside, we found a picturesque spot in Central Park for their ceremony.

They spoke their vows, and I read greetings from their parents back home. Skye's grandmother had sent two small hand-crafted butterflies with her for good luck, so she placed them on her bouquet.

The spirited holiday passersby cheered when the ceremony was over.

Kudos to Wolfgang Freithof, their photographer. He saved the day when the couple forgot their marriage license back at their hotel. Inspired by his idea, we all piled into the SUV they hired for the day...got the license signed...dropped us off at the Staten Island Ferry...and took the couple for photographs at the Brooklyn Bridge...just barely beating the setting sun.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Cold Hands, Warm Hearts

2009-12-18T13:04:00.000-08:00

The wedding ceremony of Susan and Stuart was in Central Park by the iconic Bethesda Fountain....on a cold, cold December afternoon. Several friends surrounded them with cheerful good will, and the low golden rays of the winter sun gave a luster to the happy couple.

They were quite involved in the ceremony's development...selecting their vows and writing a section about their love for one another. Their original plan for Susan to receive a "make-over" of her grandmother's ring from Stuart at the ceremony didn't happen. The refurbished ring with an additional diamond, a gift to Susan from Stuart, will be presented to her at a later date.

The groom invited all for a toast at the nearby restaurant,The Boathouse...and we were all so happy to be inside. Numb fingers and feet came back to life. The groom said it was the wedding he'd always wanted...and the bride smiled.

Ceremony Tip: If it is a really cold day, and your wedding is to take place outdoors, make sure someone keeps the pen warm. Have someone hold it next to some 98.6 degree skin. We could barely get the ink to flow for the signing of the license. That may seem like a small point, but I was concerned that the legal document be clear when is it filed. (Remember - no write-overs!)

My Three Sons

2009-11-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

The young boys were excited...unsual for them to be so interested in a wedding ceremony. Their father, Eric, married Janine...who knew marrying Eric would mean including his three sons who are an animated, charming, and inquisitive trio.

Eric and Janine included vows to the boys in their ceremony. They promised to laugh at their jokes, help them with their homework, comfort them when they are sick, and love them always...unconditionally.

I was told when I asked Eric if it was his intention to marry Janine, the boys asked their grandmother, "What if he doesn't say 'Yes'? Can we say it for him?"

The support I get from Island Chateau is always superb. And the elegant setting in their venue creates a grand atmosphere for any special event.

Ceremony Idea: Janine and Eric had a large candle "engraved" with Eric's father's name. Eric lighted the candle in memory of his father at the outset of the ceremony. I've had couple do something similar before...but this was the first time I've seen the candle so nicely done.

So all the best to Eric and Janine...and the boys!

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Trick or Treat? It's a Treat

2009-11-02T03:19:00.000-08:00

Rebecca and Rashan wanted a Wedding Halloween Party...and their guests obliged. All sorts of goblins, monsters, and weird spirits showed up for their wedding at St. Charles Seminary, Staten Island.

Rebecca's father escorted her down the dramatic central stairs of this former mansion turned event space. Rashan joined her as they exchanged vows and rings in a simple ceremony. And then the party began!

Evelyn Rogers of Taste of Honey used the Halloween theme for the cocktail hour's appropriately grisly appetizers..for example, scallops with a slice of olive on top were "eyeballs" and the wings were called "bat wings."

Ceremony Idea: If traditional readings from literature or religious sources are not what you want for your ceremony...why not use lyrics to a song that you like. For this Halloween ceremony, I suggested lyrics from a song in "Phantom of the Opera." The words resonated with this couple...and I could see a guest in a phantom costume out of the corner of my eye.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

They Eloped to the Big Apple

2009-10-29T05:06:00.000-07:00

Faced with family on widely distant continents, London residents Kerri and Thomas decided to keep their wedding plans simple by eloping to New York City. Yesterday, they exchanged vows and rings at 230 Fifth, a lively bar with a rooftop garden...and soon-to-be-completed event space for larger weddings.

Rain and wind forced the ceremony to be held inside...but as the couple kissed at the end of the ceremony, the sun came out. A heaven sent sign for the newlyweds and their photographer to go out on the rooftop and take pictures.

Jack Toomey, Director of Special Events at 230 Fifth, couldn't have been more accomodating, and the photographer, Corrine Botz seemed to be taking quite creative shots before and after the ceremony. I can't wait to see her work. I thank them both for being witnesses and signing the marriage license.

Ceremony Idea: For a destination wedding in New York City, I always invite the bride and groom to share my email with family and friends who can't be there. I read the greetings at the close of the ceremony and the couple usually tear up as they hear words from the people they love. It's a way to create a connection between the ceremony and home. Kerri and Thomas' each had a sibling write a greeting...in secret from the rest of their families. It was quite meaningful for them to hear words of affirmation about eloping and getting married.

Good luck, Kerri and Thomas! Come back to New York City, and keep in touch when you move to New Zealand.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Best of Time

2009-10-26T14:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, it was the "best of time" at Melissa and Radley's wedding at Battery Gardens last Sunday. The phrase, "best of time," was the title of the poem written for this wedding by the bride's aunt and read before the procession as a message to set the tone for their ceremony.

Before the ceremony, there was a flurry of activity to get all the final touches in place...cameras placed to get intimate shots, adjustment of curtains and floral bouquets, lighting tweaked to make certain the shadows were just right. This meticulous attention to detail was provided by the folks from Shiraz Events, the coordinators for this wedding. What an energetic team - with a real eye for the aesthetics of the ceremony setting. I'm sure they carried that spirit through all the other aspects of Melissa and Radley's wedding day.

During the ceremony, I knocked over one of the cameras...how embarrassing. But I had observed the careful set-up the photographers had done, so I just asked them to come forward and reset the camera so their work would not be lost because of me!

The best part of the day for me was to see the groom just smile and smile. Melissa is a lucky woman to have a man so obviously excited and happy.

Battery Gardens provides a dramatic setting for the ceremony and the reception. On Sunday, the weather was fine...so for the cocktail hour, guests could linger on the patio overlooking the NY harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

Ceremony Tip: Think of honoring your parents, grandparents, or someone who has been part of your life by wearing something of theirs during the ceremony. Melissa wore her mother's veil for the wedding ceremony. It was a perfect compliment to her modern-day dress...and the sentimental gesture of wearing this veil was lovely. Other ideas of "heritage" items you could add to your wedding day outfit: cuff-links, bracelet, religous medal, watch, or earrings.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Wed at Noon

2009-10-22T11:53:00.000-07:00

Nicole and Thomas had their wedding ceremony at Island Chateau on Staten Island last Sunday...at noon! That's an early start time for a ceremony, so I had to schedule some of my "prep" work for the previous day. I kind of liked it!

Sunday was a rainy day...but the set-up at Island Chateau is bright and cheery so no one's spirits were dampened. I always marvel at how the staff there manages the transition between the ceremony and the reception...all in the same room.

I wrote a few remarks for the ceremony on the keys to a successful marriage...respect, commitment and love. I gave the couple three keys tied together with ribbons that matched their wedding colors. They can use these keys as a Christmas tree ornament...or whatever they want.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Autumn Ceremony at Fiddler's Elbow

2009-10-13T08:42:00.000-07:00

The pastoral setting on the lawn of Fiddler's Elbow Country Club in Bedminster, NJ, was perfect for Pam and Paul. They wanted to exchange their vows surrounded by nature...and of course, their family and friends.

Several of Paul's family and friends arrived from the UK...many from Wales. His sister and her friend said they would wear the trendy sculptured hats worn in English and Welsh weddings these days. Paul told them not to...American women don't wear hats to weddings. But the charming women wore their hats anyway to spoof the groom...and they looked stunning in them!

It was fun to reunite with Shira Weinberger, their photographer. We did a wedding together last winter...and Shira remembered the names of that bride and groom in a nano second. Take a look at her engagement photos of Paul and Pam on Shira's web site...edgy urban shots taken in the meat packing district of Manhattan. Then check out her wedding pictures of them in a couple weeks. The contrast between urban and country should be eye-catching.

The staff at Fiddler's Elbow took comand of the ceremony staging made my pre-ceremony life so stress-free. Thank you, Kristine.

And finally, the young harpist, Violetta Norrie, performed the processional and recesisonal music beautifully. What a talent!

All the best to you, Pam and Paul!

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Links, blogs, disclaimers...

2009-10-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

The F.C.C. has announced that it will be revising rules about endorsements and testimonials in advertising...particularly as the rules relate to blogs and tweets.

So I hereby make it known that any links to other wedding vendors or venues on this blog, any comments I make about their services, or any pictures of their work...none is related to any payment from them to me. I don't ask for it, and I wouldn't accept it if offered.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I do hope the vendors I mention will create a link to my blog or web site on their blog, and sometimes I ask if they will do so. My experience is that a reciprocal link rarely happens.

Know that if I mention another wedding industry supplier on this blog, it is not connected to any direct financial or economic gain to me.

I'll be looking for the new F.C.C. rules that come out on Dec. 1...and see if this disclaimer is on target. Now I'm going to create a link to myself below, which I think is OK to do...and go make lunch!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

"...Caught Between the Moon and New York City"

2009-09-29T12:26:00.001-07:00

Crystal and Scott had their wedding ceremony and reception at the Chart House in Weehawken, NJ. With the skyline of Manhattan as the backdrop...from the golden colors of the late afternoon sun to the moonlight over the Hudson...it was just the right setting for these two urban professionals. I was humming Chris Cross' song all evening..."the best that you can do is fall in love."

I often invite couples to include their pets in their ceremony, and this bride and groom took me up on it. In fact, they suggested it before I did. So Ula, a magnificant and relaxed Staffordshire bulldog (I think) was the mascot of the ceremony...tooting her pleasure, if you know what I mean! Great fun!

Ceremony Tip: Check out the ceremony space your reception venue has to offer. Will it hold all your guests? Is there a lighting problem that will make your photographer's job difficult...like backlighting? Will you need a sound system for the ceremony? Will the venue staff help with the staging of the ceremony...welcoming your guests, managing the procession, and checking to see that your musicians and officiant's have everything ready to go.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

From Engagement to Wedding

2009-09-24T13:07:00.000-07:00

It is always a dream come true to have wonderful weather for your outside wedding. Tarrah and Jim got married in the dramatic gazebo at Nicotra's Ballroom at The Hilton Garden Inn, Staten Island, NY. I think it was just the wedding ceremony they envisioned having.

Their engagement story is unique. Jim took a book of poems he'd purchased for Tarrah, and cut a heart-shaped niche out of several pages...just enough space for the book to conseal the engagement ring. He wrote his own poem which he positioned in the front of the book...a poem that ended with "Will you marry me?" And then he suggested she look at page 196...where she found the ring.

For one of the readings in their ceremony, the included a reading from that book of poems.

Ceremony Idea: Think of ways to link your engagement story into some part of the ceremony. It could be a ritual with your engagement ring. It could be incorporating some of the words you shared that on your engagement day into your personal vows. It is fitting to acknowledge the end of your engagement in the ceremony...because a new phase of your relationship begins on your wedding day.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Wedding Ceremony Venue Change

2009-09-20T11:12:00.001-07:00

What a nail-biter! Chris and Karen had to change the venue for their wedding ceremony and reception just 5 days before their big day. It was not a problem for me...but you can only imagine all the work they had to do to get flowers, food, guests, etc. to come together at a new location...in just a few days.

They ended up having their wedding at The Vanderbilt, a beautiful wedding venue overlooking south beach on Staten Island. This new venue made it easier for me to talk about the unity ritual using sand that Karen and Chris wanted in their ceremony.

Ceremony Idea: If you are having your wedding on or near the water and a beach...or if the beach has been a major part of your life...consider doing a sand ritual in your ceremony. Typically there are three vessels...usually glass...two on the side and one in the middle. The side vessels symbolize the individual lives of the bride and groom; the center vessel symbolizes their new blended life as a married couple.

You can use sand from a familiar beach...or from a craft store. Parents or significant people in your life can pour sand into the side vessels. The bride and groom alternately pour the sand from the side vessels into the center vessel.

The center vessel becomes a keepsake of the wedding ceremony. And as sand on a beach shifts, the sand in your keepsake vessel wills shift and change over the years.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Wedding Ceremony Options

2009-09-14T14:52:00.000-07:00

I was invited to be a guest blogger for The Finishing Touch, a wonderful wedding and event planner company. Candice Benson and her staff are terrific...and they have linked me with delightful clients...like Alan and Jilian seen above.

So click here to check out my blog on wedding ceremony options.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

After 31 years...it's legal!

2009-09-13T10:09:00.001-07:00

Eileen and Rose have been together for 31 years. This year, recognizing they weren't getting any younger, they got married in New Haven CT, one of the states what recognizes same-sex marriage.

After making elaborate plans for months, they had their family and friends attend a reaffirmation ceremony and celebration last Saturday at Nicotra's Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn, Staten Island, NY.

Even though they didn't get to be outside in the hotel's beautiful gazebo, they did have a warm and intimate ceremony indoors that included a chupah, sharing wine, regifting of their wedding rings, and a "shower" of blessings from Christian, Jewish, Irish, and Native American traditions.

With Beethoven's Ode to Joy and lots of bubbles...Eileen and Rose walked hand in hand out of their ceremony to their reception...at last!

Ceremony Idea: When you are a couple from different faiths, use the most wonderful traditions from each religion in your ceremony. Ask your celebrant to adapt the traditions you love most, and infuse them with that which is meaningful to you. For example, these two women both did the breaking of the glass from Eileen's Jewish background. It was the perfect way to end their ceremony.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Their Crowning Moment

2009-09-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

Michael and Carrie's wedding ceremony included a wonderful ritual...the stefana ritual from Michael's Greek heritage. The ritual was lead by Michael's paternal grandfather, who has done this ritual at several of his grandchildren's weddings...using the traditional crowns that were from his own wedding sixty years ago. It was the highlight of the ceremony - made even more meaningful because it was Michael's grandfather doing it.

After the ceremony, I was talking with the photographer, Kella Macphee. We agreed to cross link each other on our blogs. So check out her photographs of this wedding.

The ceremony was held at sunset on the deck at the Molly Pitcher Inn in Red Bank. The harbor on the Navesink River was picturesque. The weather was pleasantly warm. And all the family and friends were in a celebratory state of mind. And best of all, Carrie and Michael really seemed to enjoy the wedding they'd carefully planned.

Ceremony Tip: If you have talent and traditions in your family, like this groom's grandfather and the crowning ritual, by all means, tap into that wonderful opportunity to make your ceremony really personal. The guests loved it...and I would guess that Michael and Carrie will not forget it.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

At Blue Hill at Stone Barns...

2009-08-31T16:00:00.000-07:00

Damon and Carolina wanted their wedding to take place in nature...and they wanted the food to be good. So they selected Blue Hill at Stone Barns as the site for their ceremony and reception. You've seen the place on the Food Network...and the food was indeed exceptional.

The weather threatened, so the ceremony was inside...but all present could see into the fields through a huge window. The abundance, sustainability, and nurturing aspects of the farm were just the right backdrop for this couple who shared personal vows they had written themselves.

I learned about a type of guitar music from their musician, Alex Simon,...django, named for the 1920s guitarist Django Reinhardt...makes you tap your toes and smile. Check out Alex' music!

Ceremony Tip: A small ceremony doesn't require amplified sound. Non-amplified voices make the ceremony seem intimate and warm - which I think was the case for this ceremony. I really like to do a ceremony without a mike. However, with a larger group of guests, you do need to plan on a sound system. Put that into your planning so the system allows flexibilty for the speakers in the ceremony and makes it possible for all your guests to hear what is being said. Your musicians or the venue will be your best resource for sound.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Our Journey to Cherish True Love

2009-08-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

Yiting and Wei-Chun made a journey from their home in California to get married near family and friends at The Ritz Carlton at Battery Park. Some of their family members journeyed from China to join their family for this wedding.

Wei-Chun and Yiting had a phrase on their wedding invitations and their wedding program that their journey to find love had ended...and their journey to cherish love was just beginning with their wedding.

It was a journey for me too to prepare for this ceremony. I'd never met the couple...we talked over the phone and exchanged email messages, but I didn't have a "feel" for their personalities. I was struggling with the pronunciation of the Chinese names and words in the ceremony script...wanting to pronounce names accurately out of respect for them...and also to not seem like I was an idiot!

But when I met them at the rehearsal and watched them interact with each other that day and also at the wedding, I came to appreciate how they compliment each other and truly love each other. I have never seen such an emotional response to saying wedding vows as I saw with Yiting and Wei-Chun. I'm so happy for them.

Ceremony Idea: Wei-Chun and Yiting made gifts to be presented to their parents during the ceremony...their first act as a married couple. The gifts were identical books of picture of them as children, growing up, and as an engage couple. This idea could be adapted for any type of wedding...a thoughtful way to acknowledge all your parents have done for you and how much you love them.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Delight in the Details

2009-08-19T07:04:00.000-07:00

All of Yiting and Wei-Chun's careful planning came together for their wedding last Sunday. Because they are both engineers, I expected they would have a penchant for detail and perfection, and I was not disappointed.

The various vendors who contributed to this beautiful wedding were all outstanding:

- Beautiful, complimentary, high design flowers - Flowers of the World

- Creative, nuanced, skilled photographer - Gulnara Studio (Take a look at her blog...stunning photos!)

- Calm, thorough, professional support staff (also great food at the cocktail hour...love those lamb chops!) - The Ritz Carlton - Battery Park

- Lovely harp/piano combo for the ceremony and cocktail hour music

Yiting and Wei-Chun made their ceremony programs and the gifts they presented to honor their parents during the ceremony. Beautiful, coordinated, creative!

They had their pictures taken in their wedding outfits ahead of the wedding day. The images of them as bride and groom were on the poster for guests to sign...and on the cover of the album for the polaroid pictures that guests took of themselves at the reception.

Yiting and Wei-Chun have many reasons to look back with satisfaction on all the arrangements they made for their memorable wedding day. Everyone they hired did their best! That includes me, their wedding officiant.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

A World Filled With Love

2009-08-17T08:20:00.000-07:00

With the warm golden sun of the late afternoon shing on their faces, Estelle and Anthony declared their vows last Saturday. The setting at the Water's Edge in Long Island City had magnificent views of the Manhattan skyline...appropriately, because theirs is a New York love story....with a delightful Radio City Music Hall connection...and a 26 year romance. (Their wedding invitation had the phrase: A world filled with love, ever old, ever new!)

As the procession came in...the audience cheered the groom, and then each member of the wedding party. I was slightly worried that this "crowd" might be unruly...but they were just so delighted that Estelle and Anthony finally were getting married.

Not many couples opt to have their ceremony videoed these days...and when they do, most of the time the videographer is just in the way for the ceremony. (Sorry...but it's true!) Not so for Alan Bloom...who was very professional - even adjusting and readjusting to get around the lighting problems caused by the setting sun shining directly into the ceremony space. I hope I get to see his work on this ceremony some day.

Ceremony Idea: Estelle and Anthony placed pictures of family and themselves around the reception area. It was interesting to see them as children, as a younger version of themselves, and to see their parents' wedding pictures.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Thank You To Life...

2009-08-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

The bride was beautiful, the groom so handsome...not unusual. But Gloria and George have such a genuinely beautiful spirit about them that they are an unusual couple.

They selected the lyrics of a Spanish song (which they later had played at their reception) to set the tone for their ceremony..."Thank You To Life..." The words of this song fit this couple who are indeed thankful for all they have been given in life, especially their love for one another.

To cap off their ceremony, they went outside to release doves. As the shimmering white birds took flight, they announced to all around that George and Gloria's marriage had begun. Thank you to life...the life they will now share.

As always, the staff at Nicotra's Ballroom at the Hilton Garden Inn, Staten Island, NY, was warm, efficient, and very professional. It's a joy to work with them.

Ceremony Tip: If you decide to release doves as part of your wedding ceremony, be certain that you check out the supplier of the birds. Make sure the birds are white homing pigeons (who will safely take wing and fly home)...not helpless doves who just are left to fend for themeselves. The folks at Love Doves are reliable, good to their birds, and they provide beautiful cages that are a lovely enhancement to your ceremony decorations.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

Field of Dreams Come True

2009-08-03T10:53:00.000-07:00

Because they are avid NY Yankee fans, Debbie and John planned a Yankee-themed wedding celebration - with the wedding ceremony to take place on the baseball field at Nansen Park in Staten Island.

But as luck would have it, the unrelenting rain last Friday meant the ceremony was in the shelter at the park. Even though the outfield ceremony was rained out, the indoor ceremony was just what John and Debbie wanted...warm, lighthearted, and an acknowledgment of their blended families.

And yes, I did use the famous Lou Gehrig quote about being "the luckiest man on the face of the earth"...truly the way this couple felt as they declared their vows.

With the help of the wonderful folks at A Taste Of Honey, the catering group at the park, the tables were numbered by famous Yankee players' numbers, there were pinstripes all about, and you can see that even one of the food stations had the Yankee logo in the ice.

Ceremony Tip: Don't hesitate to suggest a theme to your wedding officiant. Whether your ceremony is religious or civil, you may have a wedding officiant who will find a way to incorporate your theme into the ceremony. I used many baseball references in the love story I told about this couple...and it was a homerun!

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

It was a lovely day in the neighborhood...

2009-07-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

Liz and Chris looked forward to their backyard wedding...their home is such a symbol of their marriage. And the Mr. Roger's song, "It's a lovely day in the neighborhood..." could have been the theme song for their love story.

Arriving by trolley, the women in the wedding party processed to the ceremony. Liz' faithful dog, Ruby, escorted her down the aisle. Ruby had been the catalyst for Liz and Chris's meeting each other.

This wedding ceremony had many personalized touches...based on the input and interest of the bride and groom. The couple wrote their own vows, the groom's daughter read an original piece in honor of her dad's new marriage, and the bride wrote the reading I used. Liz and Chris lighted three candles to acknowledge their love and support for Chris' three children. (They didn't take my advice on avoiding candles for an outside ceremony... and it worked out just fine!)

Ceremony Idea: Liz and Chris's vows were placed in a keepsake book that they used during the ceremony...in this case, so they could read their vows to one another. The book also contained Chris' daughter's piece and the poem Liz wrote.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!

4th of July Weekend Wedding

2009-07-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

Designing a wedding ceremony that is on the 4th of July weekend...a ceremony at Liberty House which is in sight of the Statue of Liberty...poses a challenge.

Themes of liberty and independence seem a bit counter to the central message of a marriage ceremony. So I decided to tell this couple's love story using the theme of "gifts." The Statue of Liberty, being a gift from the people of France, was the inspiration.

The gifts Amy and John share are friendship, trust, commitment, and respect. May the Lady of the NY Harbor shine with delight on their marriage!

Ceremony Tip: Amy and John had a table set up in the ceremony area...filled with pictures of their deceased grandparents. As each mother and father of the couple came in, they placed a rose in a vase on this table...in memory of their parent, Amy and John's grandparents.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

A Class with Class

2009-07-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

Last evening I had the privilege and delight to give a presentation to Wagner College's Wedding Planner Certificate Progam's students.

The topic was non-traditional weddings...and the discussion focused on all the options available to couples who select a wedding celebrant, like me, to officate at their wedding ceremony.

It is always encouraging to see the faces of learners who are about to make their mark in the wedding industry. And it is my goal to help as many wedding planners and coordinators know about the partner they can find in a celebrant.

The best part of the evening for me was to become acquainted with the instructor, also a wedding planner Marissa Mortimer. We shared our wedding stories...the good, the bad, and the unbelievable! I do look forward to working together with Marissa in the future on a wedding. And it would be fun to return to her class in 2010.

Enough Love for a Lifetime

2009-06-18T13:37:00.000-07:00

Phil and Grace...sounds like the name of a TV show, right?...got married at the Island Chateau on Staten Island last Saturday evening. The phrase from their wedding invitation..."enough love for a lifetime"...was used throughout the ceremony. And it truly fit this couple who had so many family and friends that the ceremony room seemed to be overflowing...like their love.

All of us were touched to watch Phil's family light a memorial candle in memory of his mother and sister. And it was heartwarming to hear Grace's son do a reading.

Later in the ceremony, Grace and Phil presented her son with a medal that he can have as a reminder of the day. The medallion depicted three intertwined circles...that of Phil and Grace - and her son. If you do an internet search on "wedding family medallion," you can find several options to buy such a keepsake.

Wedding Ceremony Tip: Check with your photographer and videographer about how they will get the shots you want during the ceremony. Also check with them on where they will be located during the ceremony and how much space they will need for equipment. I found it distracting to have the video equipment...well, just in the way. It think it also got to Grace at one point too. Talking through the ceremony staging with your photographer ahead of time can help you be undisturbed by what they do during the ceremony...which is as it should be.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

A Little Bit Country...for an Urban Couple

2009-06-08T14:33:00.001-07:00

Joanne and Nate are really urbanites...living in Brooklyn and loving all the city has to offer. But they got married in one of the most beautiful county settings...the garden at Crossed Key Inn, Andover, NJ.

This bride and groom have always sealed their promises by locking pinky-fingers. It was probably only visible to me...but they locked their little fingers while they spoke their vows. I was the delighted witness.

I didn't stay through the reception, but I can only assume this vehicle, situated right by the exit, was the "get-away" ride for the couple.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Yes, it was a bit about crows!

2009-06-08T14:21:00.000-07:00

The entrance to the ceremony space at Astra, on 57th and Third, was through this high style hallway.

Two artists, Chris and Sandra, pledged their love as they held their rings over their hearts.
Their love story, a focal part of the ceremony, was a riff on the graphic image Sandra deigned for their wedding invitation...a branch with magenta flowers and two magical crows.

The location for this wedding had an outdoor balcony overlooking the 59th Street Bridge. It was an unusual view - even on a stormy night.

Julie Laudicina.Celebrant!

A Magical Wedding

2009-06-05T07:23:00.000-07:00

It's our goal as wedding celebrants to create a magical wedding ceremony...when the setting, the couple, the family and friends all come together to create that transformational moment when the bride and groom become husband and wife. This wedding ceremony was just that! With the backdrop of the landmarks on Fifth Avenue visible from the garden terrace at Rockefeller Center, this couple spoke their emotional vows...the focus was totally on them! And the air was filled with joy.

At the end of the ceremony, the air was filled with helicopter noise directly overhead...reminding us all that we were in the middle of Manhattan.

Ceremony Tip: Capitalize on your love story in your ceremony. This bride and groom's story was compelling, and the telling of their story at the outset of their ceremony immediately engaged their guests. Everyone present knew this ceremony was not going to be something prefunctory or boring.

Julie Laudicina, Celebrant!

Room with a View

2009-06-03T17:19:00.001-07:00

Julian and Debbie came to New York City from London to get married in the Mandarin Oriental, right on Columbus Circle...in a room filled with blossons, candles, a great view of Central Park...and lots of excited family and friends.

As the wedding officiant, I began the ceremony by introducing the bride's father who gave a blessing to his daughter...meaningful, from the heart, and filled with tradition.

Ceremony Tip: Many members of the family were included in the formal procession. It required organization and some time at the outset of the ceremony...but the visual impact of the procession made such a warm and inclusive impression. Family is important to this couple - so this was just the right thing to do.

Julie Laudicina,Celebrant!