Guides

Everything I wish couples and families knew sooner.

Plain-language answers to the questions I hear most, written from years of standing at the front of the room.

How to write wedding vows that sound like you

Wedding vows work best at 150–250 words, one to two minutes each. A four-part structure, what to promise, and how to get through it without fumbling.

September 8, 2026Read

Celebrations of Life 8 min

Planning a celebration of life in a week: a gentle checklist

When you are grieving, decisions pile up fast. This checklist walks through what needs to happen, in what order, and what you can hand to someone else.

September 8, 2026Read

Weddings 6 min

How much does a wedding officiant cost in Ontario?

Most Ontario officiants charge $350–$900 in 2026, or $450–$850 around Hamilton. What drives the price, what a complete quote includes, and how to compare.

September 8, 2026Read

Weddings 6 min

Renewing your vows: how it works and how to make it meaningful

Renewing your wedding vows in Ontario: what a vow renewal ceremony is, whether you need a licence (you do not), how to structure the day, and what to say.

September 8, 2026Read

Weddings 7 min

Eloping in Hamilton: the practical guide

Where to elope around Hamilton, what it costs (my elopement ceremonies are $450), how the licence and the two witnesses work, and a realistic timeline.

September 8, 2026Read

Celebrations of Life 8 min

Readings and words for a celebration of life

How to choose one or two readings that suit the person you are honouring, where they belong in the service, and public-domain poems you can use freely.

September 8, 2026Read

Weddings 6 min

How to get a marriage licence in Ontario (and what happens to it after the ceremony)

Ontario marriage licences cost about $150–$180, are issued same-day at any municipal office, and last 90 days. What to bring, and what happens after.

September 8, 2026Read

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