The bride and groom may have as much or as little to do with the planning of their wedding ceremony as they like. My commitment to them is that I will meet with them and listen to the story of their hearts as they come to me with their decision to marry. I will listen to their story from my heart so as to create a ceremony for them that reflects who they are. They may tell me as much or as little as they like and I will work with them accordingly.
My wedding ceremonies are personally and spiritually developed. I am an ordained Interfaith/Metaphysical Minister, however, the wedding ceremony does not need to be religious. If the couple does not find religion to be a part of their life I offer alternative names for God (Creator or Love, Love, Light, Spirit of Love, Spirit of Truth and Peace, Mother/Father/Creator…) that speak to the sacredness of marriage within life’s and love’s evolution. I lead the reflection/prayer/meditation according to the couple’s style and wish. We can offer traditional or spontaneous prayer/prose as guides for the ceremony, with music that solicits insight into their wedding journey if desired. I create an interactive ceremony that is not rigid, but rather more relaxed and friendly…while at the same time a beautiful and dignified ritual that will resonate within the guests’ hearts and minds. We can include; scripture, literature, poetry or personal writing if there is something the couple feels pertinent. We can be short and sweet or longer - we can linger awhile and create a meaningful, holy event. The wedding can take as long as an hour and as little as 30 minutes…and anything in between.
I invite you to sit with me at least once to go over your needs and wishes before your wedding. My husband, Doug, and I offer an additional premarital counseling session where we will offer you some thoughts, insights, and guidance toward your happiness in marriage. This session gives you the experience of counseling together that you might draw on in the years ahead. Also, it is a chance for me to get to know you better for your wedding day…that I won’t be a stranger at such an important time. I will be with you for your rehearsal to be sure things are prepared and that they go according to your wishes.
I have officiated at large formal weddings at the Biltmore in Santa Barbara for $1,500, and at intimate home weddings for $25, when the couple has not the means. Weddings at A Place of Peace Sanctuary vary as well, depending upon the couple’s requirements. My ministry is important to me and I ask my couples to consider a donation relative to the rest of their wedding expenses. I am absolutely open - please look at your individual story and let me know what works for you.
If the couple wishes to totally create their own ceremony, it is necessary for them to see that I have a copy of their plans a week prior to the wedding, or rehearsal day.
I have officiated at a Wiccan Handfasting Wedding Ceremony and found it to be just beautiful – filled with traditions and rituals that are quite lovely. I can work some of these into all ceremonies if desired.
Some couples participate by creating their own vows, with help from a few samples I provide. Sometimes couples choose to write poetry to express their love and commitment. Most choose from my samples, sometimes making slight adjustments. I will speak the vows and ask that the couple repeat the words I offer unless the couple feels their memory will not be affected by all the excitement and emotion of the wedding.
I am always open to new ideas, so please offer whatever thoughts you have.
Blessings on you as you walk this path of love. Blessings on your journey toward Love, Light, and Peace within marriage. If you wish to work with me, or meet with me for a consultation please feel free to call for an appointment. Your wedding ceremony can be as beautiful and memorable as your gowns, the meal offered, the cake, the music, and the reception – if you so choose. I wish you vision as you plan and prepare. Blessings on your love. Rev. Teri 805-794-9878
Memorials
Memorial/Funeral Services celebrate and integrate life and death.
Together with family and friends we grieve, remember, pray, and celebrate the life lost to us on this earth. Together we send the departed on to the Light of Love and Eternity.
What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the Master calls a butterfly - Richard Bach
For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun? And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered. – Kahlil Gibran
Indian Prose: Do not stand at my grave and weep. I am not there. I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow. I am the diamond glint on snow. I am the sunlight on ripened grain. I am the gentle autumn rain. When you wake in the morning hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circling flight. I am the soft starlight at night. So do not stand at my grave and cry. I am not there. I did not die. I am merely out of sight. - Author Unknown
