My desire to become a Celebrant
was fueled in part by my passion for helping people – especially those
facing obstacles based on culture, religion, or sexual orientation. I
feel it’s essential to stand up for what’s right, whether it be on a
global scale or in small, daily gestures. I
believe every couple has the right to be married and
deserves
to
have a personal, unique ceremony that celebrates their love.
I also believe that families come in many different forms, and that
each family should be able to celebrate their love as they choose. It
is, therefore, important to me that I am able to work closely with
people to give them the ceremony they want.Another reason I became a Celebrant is my interest in cultures. As a native Chicagoan, I’ve always been surrounded by vibrant diversity – music, food, culture – and I enjoy the amazing bounty around us. I’m also a first-generation American, and have an appreciation for the desire to honor cultural traditions. I understand the struggle of balancing two worlds – traditional customs vs. modern values, familial expectations vs. the desire for independence. My experience and background give me a unique connection with many of the couples I meet.
As a Celebrant, I am trained in the art and history of rituals and in creating ceremonies. While I am not affiliated with a specific denomination, I respect and honor the faith and religious traditions of the couples I marry. I also feel strongly that those who do not have religious beliefs should also be able to have a personal, meaningful, secular wedding. It is my desire to make each ceremony a reflection of the couple being married – their personalities, beliefs, ethnicity, culture – all the things that make them special.As for my own love story, I’ve been married to my witty and wonderful husband since 1993. We have two children – a Lego enthusiast son (who makes an amazing omelet) and a hula-dancing, future veterinarian/zookeeper daughter. I’m also active in volunteering with refugees and working on refugee issues; reading and participating in a book group; and teaching bead-and-wire jewelry classes.