Christina and Brian - Sometimes a little late is perfect timing!

Christina's family were coming all the way from the Phillipines to celebrate with her and her fiance, Brian, at their wedding.  They loved the idea of a White Dove Release to add a special element of delight to the ceremony.

The historic Mountain Magnolia Inn in Hot Springs, NC provided the setting of their dreams.

However, just before it was time for the ceremony to begin there was a 10 minute delay in Christina's preparations that created a bit of anxiety for her.

As it turned out that delay was perfect timing!  Right at the  moment that all the guests were gathered, we heard the loud whistle of the train and the sound of steel wheels on the rails.  So we paused and waited until the train had passed which took a good 5 minutes or so.

The Mountain Magnolia Inn, which was built in 1868, is situated near the train tracks.  Trains make a wonderful sound that brings of feelings of nostalgia and the urge to roam in many people, including me.  But most of us would prefer not to have that sound arrive in the middle of a wedding ceremony!

If not for that unforeseen delay, the train would have arrived during the ceremony causing us to stop everything and wait for it pass.  It did pass, of course, and we proceeded to have a beautiful ceremony in shade of the Inn's ancient trees.

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As a Celebrant, I try to be ready to remain present no matter what surprises may unfold.  With all the preparations and decorations and planning, the Main Thing is still the Main Thing -- an important transition is being honored, intentions are being declared, deep connections are being forged.  I believe the Universe supports us when we undertake to give our lives this kind of sincere attention.  So I remember to breath, trust, ask for help if needed and, above all, relax!

My very best wishes to Christina and Brian for a lifetime of joy, love and good-timing!

From my heart,

Alyson and Jack move across the country only to find their hearts were back home all the time.

How's this for a brilliant display of the the Universe's synchronicity?

Alyson and Jack both had to move across the country to the Bay Area of California to meet their perfect match.  It turns out they grew up 30 minutes from one another in Georgia!

Because they both live so far away, I didn't actually meet Alyson and Jack in person until just before their wedding.  I've known Alyson's mom, Connie, for a number of years and she called me first.


After we talked the couple felt that they could trust me to honor their wishes completely.  I assured them that we would be able to create the ceremony they envisioned via email and phone calls.

Alyson and Jack were very clear that they wanted a secular ceremony but one that was filled with love and meaning.  In a trend I'm seeing more and more, this groom was actively involved in planning the wedding and  wanted every word and gesture to be an authentic reflection of his and his bride's values, beliefs and personality.

Though the wedding was held in Lilburn, GA in June, we were graced with a gorgeous clear day in the 70's. The garden in back of Music On Main Street was a perfect shady setting for Alyson's vintage-eclectic style and this heart-felt gathering of people from the West Coast and the South.



My very best wishes for a life together that allows them to live their values and grow in love every day!

From my heart,