Q: What experience from other jobs or projects will be an asset in this work?

Over the past 35 years, I have usually been the first person to raise my hand when a volunteer opportunity arises. In doing so I have found myself in many circles of amazing events and have met some of the most incredible people filling roles that many others would shy away from. I have had some of my most rewarding experiences as a volunteer and have been able to take from these roles and share with others their passions, goals, and life experiences.

I never set out to be an ordained minister, rather the role found me, and it’s been nothing but amazing and rewarding ever since 2016 when my Godson first approached me about residing over his nuptials. It was truly an honor and by the grace of God and word of mouth, I am lucky enough to be fulfilling a role that I absolutely respect, love, and cherish.

Q: What strengths and skills do you bring to this work?

My ability to lead, follow and listen is a strength that I pride myself in. I listen and observe every role I partake in and take from it what I feel could help me grow as an individual both personally and professionally. I am not afraid to ask questions, yet I really know how to listen.

In addition, I have been married for 39 years so I know what loyalty, commitment, sacrifice, and devotion entails. Marriage is a work of art, bringing two different people together to create a life that is beneficial and fruitful to both individuals is like creating a symphony and both must work in harmony to make it work.

As a mom of 4, I like to raise the bar and challenge them to help them acquire the skills they need to be independent and successful in all that they endeavor.

Q: What do you enjoy most about this work?

My love for love and sharing such an intimate moment with couples and their family and friends is so profound. I love to listen to their love story so that I can weave it into my ceremony and create a ceremony that reflects their love and what their relationship is about. Leaving guests to feel that I really know the couple and resided over their
ceremony as a personal acquaintance. My motto is…”No two love stories are the same…and therefore no two of my ceremonies are the same.”

Q: What characteristics do you see in couples that encourage you?

New and fresh love! A new beginning!! Whether they have been together for 1 month or 10-plus years, a wedding ceremony or vow renewal is the epitome of love and commitment. I love when they look into each other’s eyes as they recite their vows and give their whole self to one another.

Q: What personal experiences do you draw on when working with couples?

I reflect on my life and how I got to where I am. Be it disappointments or rewards. The journey that I have traveled is very detailed with many uphill climbs, bumps in the road, sudden curves, and dead ends. But through it all, I prevailed and learned from it. I am still learning from it. But I know if I keep an open mind and not get too disappointed when the paths don’t lead me to where I want to go then I know the journey ahead will be what was meant to be and it’s sure to be a rewarding ride.
This is what I like to share with my couples, especially those who are just at the beginning stages of their relationship.