I recently officiated a wedding in Grand Junction that was so stressful to the bride that she began yelling at everyone who came near her before the ceremony began.   By the time she walked down the aisle she had pasted a smile on her face and perhaps no one, except those in the line of fire, knew what turmoil her insides were in. However the scowl on her bridesmaids faces were somewhat of a giveaway.   Why does this happen? Well of course this is in part, due to personality. At the rehearsal the bride and groom told me…

I just officiated a themed wedding based on the movie, Tombstone.  (That’s a western if you didn’t know.) What wild fun!  All the 10 bridesmaids were saloon girls, the guys were gunslingers – all wearing guns.  This is the wild west after all!  I was a cowgirl because I just couldn’t get behind being a school marm.  Most of the guests were in costume as well and it created such a delightful festive atmosphere.  There are so many theme ideas out there.  You might want to consider it if you are still in the early planning stages. One thing to…

Getting married this year? I know it can be stressful, and it is hopefully a fun memorable experience. As a wedding officiant I can tell you that I see a lot of stressed out brides! So here is the key. Include another woman in your plans; one who will be supportive and listen. Studies have shown that relating to another women is much more helpful than to a man. We love them, obviously, but don’t count on them for giving you the same kind of support a woman can. Men are from Mars…   Take the time in your planning…

As a wedding officiant on the Western Slope of Colorado, I must say, Winter is a beautiful season to get married. If you want to have a wedding when most people are settling in for less social time, this is a great opportunity to have a celebration! Winter in Colorado is absolutely stunning. There are many venues where you can have photos in front of big windows overlooking snowy scenes.  And since the sun shines here most of the time, the mountain beauty is highlighted. I recently officiated a wedding at the Colorado Hotel in Glenwood Springs and it was…

Tip #1 - Shaping the Wedding Party for Best Results As the officiant I like to have the bride and groom be able to look at me, at one another and at their guests. So stand with one foot slightly forward of the other so you are grounded, yet stable for turning a bit. Mostly you are facing one another, but slightly more facing toward your guests. If you have bridesmaids and groomsmen, have them stand the same way, fanning out into a wide V shape. This looks great for photos and allows your joyous faces to be seen by...