Name: Jan Smillie Business Name: Simply Say "I Do"
Website: SimplySayIDo@yahoo.com Facebook: N/A
How would you describe your business?
I am a non-denominational wedding Officiant who believes your wedding is YOUR day.
What should a bride know about your expertise and experience?
A bride should know that I believe a wedding day belongs to the bride and groom. I will meet with them in person to talk about their wishes and desires for the ceremony. I learn about them, then I get busy writing a customized ceremony which is emailed to them. I will work to edit it until approved by the bride and groom.
How did you get to where you are today?
I got to where I am today by listening and by going beyond what is expected of me.
What is your range of services?
I offer a number of packages depending on your needs.
Basic Service:
· Meet with bride and groom to discuss their plans and vision for the ceremony
· Write ceremony
· Unlimited emails, texts, and phone calls to edit ceremony
· Arrive at venue 30 minutes before ceremony
· Officiate at the wedding
· File marriage certificate with county
Rehearsal:
· Attend rehearsal, up to one and one half hours
· Coordinate rehearsal
o Work with bride and groom in advance to create processional
o Work with bride and groom in advance to create plan for escorting family and VIP guests
o Practice processional and recessional with wedding party, family, etc
· Take charge of rehearsal, alleviating the bride and groom from dealing with ‘well meaning input and suggestions’ from others in attendance
Ceremony Coordinator:
· Coordinate and stage wedding party prior to ceremony
· Meet with DJ before ceremony to discuss Officiant microphone and ceremony music
Day of Coordinator:
· Basic Service, see above
· Ceremony Coordinator, see above
· Arrive at venue up to two hours before ceremony at request of couple
· Coordinate with DJ, photographer, and caterer
· Work with bride and groom in advance to create timeline for pre and post ceremony
· Keep bride and groom on schedule i.e.
o starting buffet line
o toasts
o cake cutting
o first dance, father daughter dance, mother son dance
o garter and bouquet toss
What has been your sweetest success story?
I performed a ceremony for a couple who had been together for several years and have 7 young children between them. Their children wanted them to get married - to become a family. When they finally chose to wed they didn't tell anyone. When I arrived at their home I was introduced as a friend simply joining them for a BBQ. At the appropriate moment, I told the kids why I was there. The ceremony focused not only on uniting the bride and groom as husband and wife, but uniting them as a family. We included a sand ceremony, with each of them participating. The love in that family was so evident, it was a privilege to be included in their day.
