love knots
faq
the ceremony
Q: What is the difference between a marriage ceremony, an affirmation of love or renewal of vows, and a commitment ceremony?
A: If you stumbled into any one of these ceremonies without knowing anyone in the room, it is very unlikely you’d be able to tell the difference right away! All of these types of ceremonies are similar in that they are used to express love and commitment to another.
A marriage ceremony is performed in concert with obtaining a marriage license, providing a legal component to the ceremony. It is done when participants seek to become legally wed.
Ceremonies to affirm love or renew vows are not legal ceremonies. They are typically done at special anniversaries or when a couple reunites after a separation, but we believe that any time is a good time to re-affirm your love and commitment. These services can be even more emotional and touching than the initial wedding, as there is more of a life and love story to tell with plenty of memories to share.
A commitment ceremony is the term most often used when same-gender couples wish to express their love and devotion in a public way. Sadly, in most areas of the United States, ceremonies joining same-gender couples are not legal ceremonies.
Q: We were married in a small civil ceremony at the County Courthouse and no one knows. Can we get married again in a ceremony with our friends and family?
A: Of course! The only thing that changes is the filing of any paperwork as you would have taken care of that the first time around. It would be up to you as to how to present the ceremony to your friends and family. We perform the ceremony as an officiate the same as we would any couple. Most call this a "re-commitment" ceremony but no one needs to know if you don't want them to.
Q: What will the ceremony be like?
A: We are pleased to perform the kind of ceremony you want, from non-denominational with traditional religious or spiritual references to no religious reference at all! Your ceremony is a reflection of you, so we are happy to include anything you can dream of from the usual (unity candles, romantic readings) to the unique (Jon dressed as the caterpillar from Alica in Wonderland and sat on a mushroom for one ceremony!). Just remember, it's your special day and the ceremony should reflect your personalities. We are happy to do theme weddings or unusual locations and outrageous requests. Click here to view the process of creating your custom ceremony or contact us today to receive a brochure with tips on choosing an officiant/celebrant.
Q: Can we write our own vows?
A: Yes and we encourage it. You may have as little or as much control as you’d like over the content of the entire ceremony, actually. We provide customized ceremony writing, but we still encourage couples to take the opportunity to compose and read personal vows to each other. Click here for more information on the typical process of crafting your custom ceremony.
Q: Do you participate in the rehearsal?
A: A rehearsal is wonderful idea, and ensures that everyone is prepared and ready for your big day. We include rehearsals in all ceremonies we contract to perform as part of our services.