FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions:

1.  After you receive my contact information, what is next?

I will schedule a mutually agreed upon time and place where I can discuss how Ceremonies on Solid Ground may serve you. There is no fee for this initial consultation as I seek to be helpful in answering any questions.

2.  How do we confirm that you will conduct our ceremony as the officiant?

You will be asked to sign and return a contract to us along with a non-refundable retainer fee of 50% of the agreed upon price. The signed contract and retainer fee confirms our services for the date.

3.  Once a contract is in place, what is next in preparing for our ceremony?

I will commence the planning of your ceremony through discussions with you. I will identify the details you wish to have as part of your ceremony.  Our discussions will include, but not be limited to, the venue, theme, number of guests, and the possible participation by family and friends. I will offer suggestions and advice for your ceremony based on your expressed desires.

4.  What are your payment options?

I will accept cash, credit/debit card, PayPal, and check.

5.  How far in advance of the ceremony should we book your services?

For large ceremonies, at least one month notice is needed.  For small ceremonies I need a minimum of two weeks.  Many couples book six to 12 months in advance so we encourage you to sign your contract and pay your retainer, sooner than later, because these actions guarantee your date and our services.

6.  Do you perform elopements or short-notice ceremonies?

If you have already obtained a marriage license, I can often perform your ceremony the same day. 

7.  What if our wedding does not start at the scheduled time?

It is quite common for wedding ceremonies to not start on time. Fifteen or twenty minutes delay is not a problem.  However, if there are significant delays before the ceremony begins — additional fees will be applied for our services or other arrangements may have to be made by you.

8.  What if our wedding is canceled, postponed or rescheduled?

I We will happily work with you to reschedule our services for your new wedding date. If I am able to perform your wedding on the new date chosen, we will use the retainer fee, as your partial payment, for the new date. However, if the ceremony has to be canceled, or our services are not used, your retainer fee remains non-refundable. Additionally, all ceremonies canceled within 60 days of the scheduled date will be billed in full.

Feel free to contact me with any additional questions you may have about our services. I  can be reached at our email address [email protected] or by phone at 202-670-1080.