Rev. Jimmy Smith
New Jersey Wedding Officiant

Faith based and non-religious wedding ceremonies.

Phone: 201-805-5118 Email: tobemy@gmail.com

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Celebrant?
A Celebrant is a trained ceremony expert! The Celebrant's mission is to create a ceremony that reflects the needs, beliefs, cultural background, value, and tastes of those involved.

Are you a real minister?
Yes, I am an ordained non-denominational minister, and legal to perform marriages in the state of New Jersey.

What's the process like? How do you write our ceremony if you don't know us?
We'll meet for an informal interview, where I can share information with you, and learn about your needs and desires for your wedding. This will help me get to know you and understand exactly what you are looking for. I'll then write your ceremony for you, and send the draft to you for changes, additions, deletions and final approval. Throughout the process, I am available for unlimited phone and email consultations.

Do I get to read the ceremony beforehand?
Yes! I will take information from our discussions to create your ceremony. Drafts will be sent to you via email, and I offer unlimited consultations on these drafts. When it comes to the ceremony, there will be no surprises on your wedding day.

Should I write my own vows?
Writing your own vows can be a beautiful personal detail to your wedding ceremony. I can help you to create and write your vows. If you'd prefer not to, I can offer suggestions for vows.

Do you perform civil unions?
Yes! I would be honored to preside over your civil union. The process for civil unions is similar to the typical wedding processes.

How long do your ceremonies take?
It all depends on what it's in it! My wedding or civil union ceremonies usually last between 15-25 minutes.

Can we have a glass breaking/wine/unity candle/broom jumping/handfasting ritual in our ceremony?
I would love to integrate any rituals or traditions into your ceremony that you'd like. If I am not familiar with the ritual, I will research it for you. That's the beautiful thing about writing your own wedding ceremony - you can personalize it to your own taste and tradition, and include rituals to really make it your own.

Can you perform a Renewal of Vows?
A Renewal of Vows is a wonderful ceremony honoring your relationship and marriage, and celebrating your life together. I would be happy to work with you and create a unique ceremony for your vow renewal.

How do I change my name?
After the wedding ceremony, obtain an official copy of your wedding license from the town hall/registrar where your wedding was performed. Get more than one - you never know when a bureau may need to keep a copy, or if you need to mail it somewhere. You can use this document to change your name with Social Security, the DMV, and your bank account. Some credit cards may not require proof of the marriage - you simply need to call to have them change your name.

How do I get my license?
I'll go over the license details at our no-obligation interview/meeting. It's pretty easy! But the most up to date information is always available on New Jersey's website:
How to apply for your wedding license.
How to apply for a civil union license.

I Cater to Couples Who:

May not belong to a church, synagogue or other religious organization, or whose family minister is not available for their wedding date, or is unwilling to travel to their wedding location
Want a customized personal wedding ceremony that fits their beliefs
Are of different faiths and want to blend the wedding customs of their faiths or prefer a neutral spiritual wedding ceremony
Want a civil/secular wedding ceremony with no reference to religion
Are divorced or belong to a church that does not accept their lifestyle
Want to include their children and/or their parents in their wedding ceremony
Have a non-traditional wedding location
Would like to incorporate their personal stories into their wedding ceremony
May want to have a variety of customs in their wedding ceremony such as the sand ceremony, blessing of the hands, glass breaking, cup of wine ceremony, Celtic handfasting ceremony, unity candle, unity circle, blessing of the rings, Native American readings and traditions, or many more options that are available.

My goal is to create the perfect wedding ceremony for you!

All religions, backgrounds, traditions, & ideas are honored and respected.

Rev. Jimmy Smith
New Jersey Wedding Officiant
Faith based and non-religious wedding ceremonies.
Phone: 201-805-5118 Email: tobemy@gmail.com