FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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Where can I have my ceremony?  Your ceremony can be held at a place of your choosing, indoors or outdoors: a backyard, park, garden, or your home/apartment are just a few possibilities. I can help you brainstorm other ideas to find the location that is “just right” for you!

 

How much will it cost?  My fee is $100 if held in Amherst, and $125-$150 if held in another Western Mass town.   These fees are standard for all Massachusetts JPs!

 

What does the fee include?   The fee includes an interview either by phone or in person to discuss how you and your fiance want your ceremony to be.  EVERY ceremony that I perform is personalized at no extra charge!

 

How long is a typical ceremony? Ceremonies range from 5-30 minutes. Some couples prefer it “short and sweet” while others like to include supplemental readings or additional customs.

 

Must there be witnesses?  No!  Your ceremony can be completely private with just the two of you and myself (though my husband often likes to join us!) 

 

What do we have to do ahead of time?  You must file your marriage intentions   together, in any Massachusetts Town Hall at least 3 days prior to the wedding ceremony.   The fee is $40. Once you pick up your license you are ready to be married!

 

 What do we need on the day of the ceremony?  You will need to bring your marriage license, the ceremony fee in cash and  your rings if you are doing a ring exchange!  

 

Will we need to write our own vows?  This is something we can discuss during our pre-wedding interview.  I encourage couples to write brief, meaningful vows. But I also have sample vows for you to choose from!