A Central Coast Wedding

What 3 words describe your work? Personalized, inspiring, unique.

Why should someone hire you? I have been doing this for over 25 years. I not only have the experience, but also listen and have the heart to make a wedding ceremony a dream come true. Every ceremony is customized and unique because every couple is special.

What are the common misconceptions about your services? That we are wedding planners. I focus exclusively on the ceremony and making it perfect.

What drew you to this field/how did you get started? I was the senior minister of a church in Southern California for 20 years. I moved to the Central Coast to get away from the stress of the big city. After a year or so, I realized how much I missed being with people and supporting them in the momentous moments of their lives. Weddings seemed to be the perfect outlet for my talents and my desire to make a positive difference.

What are some sources of inspiration or influences on your work? People are my inspiration—I really love them and am inspired by the gifts, tangible and intangible, that everyone has to offer. My greatest desire is to create a ceremony that not only inspires and celebrates, but one which, in walking back down the aisle, the bride and groom look at one another and say "that was just what we dreamed of."

Tell us about a favorite, unusual or most interesting moment at a wedding: Oh so many. Loved the dog that sat on the bride's train throughout the wedding, and another pup that couldn't understand why he couldn't walk back down the aisle with mom and dad. My two most memorable weddings: marrying my daughter to the man she loves, and marrying my first husband to his second wife (who better?). They both agreed, prior to calling me to ask if I would do their weddings, that they'd never been to a better wedding than the one they saw me do—and they wanted that for themselves.

What makes a wedding memorable for you? Knowing that the bride and groom are moved, inspired and thrilled with the ceremony.

What have weddings taught you? Patience and flexibility.

What is the best advice you give to a couple when planning their wedding? Really ask for what you what. Nearly all things really are possible. Don't let other people talk you out of/into something if it isn't your dream.

If you could have any superpower on the job, what would it be? The ability to bi-locate. I just hate to turn anyone down because I'm already booked someplace else.

What are 3 words that describe your personality? Enthusiastic, optimistic, supportive… (can I also have "warm"?)

What's your favorite book/movie/work of art? Wow, hard question, I like so many. There's a little gem of a movie called The King of Hearts that I especially love.

What is your favorite quote? Oh too many words of wisdom from so many great minds. I love Einstein and Emerson and Bill Shakespeare—they've said a good thing or two.

What's your favorite marriage advice? First, remember your love. It will put all other issues into perspective.

Extracurricular activities: When I'm not doing weddings, I write books. I have published several.

If you weren't in your current profession, what would you do instead? I'd be in public speaking—it really is my greatest gift and first love.

What's your favorite way to wind down after a hard day? Feet up, glass of wine in hand, looking out over the amazing little forest that is my home.

Tell us about your pets, if you have any. Too many cats indoors. Outdoors there are deer and squirrels and all sorts of feathered friends.

What are some of your favorite places to eat—either everyday spots or special occasion splurges? I just love food. I'm pretty easy. Ragged Point on the road to Big Sur has a view to die for. Buono Tavola in Paso Robles is wonderful. I have favorites in LA too, but don't get there too often.