While Michigan is suffering the coldest few days ever, think -42... yeah, that's cold. But it was warm and cozy inside Cupcakes and Kisses in Downtown Holly!
I had the pleasure of meeting a lovely couple inside this charming little café, where we grabbed a coffee and a sweet treat before proceeding with their Justice of the Peace Signing Ceremony. The intimate and personal nature of this setting perfectly encapsulates what makes these ceremonies so special.
As a Justice of the Peace wedding officiant, my role is to ensure that the legalities of the marriage are properly handled, but it’s so much more than that. I get to witness one of the most important moments in a couple’s life. In this case, the couple's young son stood by their side, and two close friends served as witnesses. The look of joy and love in their eyes as they said their vows was heartwarming and profound.
Justice of the Peace ceremonies are perfect for couples who prefer a simple, no-frills approach to their wedding. These ceremonies are legally binding and recognized, yet they can be as personalized and meaningful as any grand affair. Whether it’s a quick signing in a cozy café, a small gathering in a park, or a private moment at home, these ceremonies provide flexibility and intimacy that many couples cherish.
On that freezing Michigan day, the warmth inside Cupcakes and Kisses wasn’t just from the heaters or the coffee. It came from the genuine happiness of two people committing their lives to each other. The simple words, "I do," spoken in the presence of their son and friends, held a weight and significance that cut through the cold outside.
Being a Justice of the Peace officiant allows me to facilitate these beautiful moments. It's a reminder that love and commitment are what truly matter, no matter the setting. Whether it’s in a grand ballroom or a cozy café on a freezing day, the essence of a wedding lies in the love shared between two people.
For couples considering a Justice of the Peace ceremony, know that it can be whatever you want it to be. It's about making your day special in a way that resonates with you. And as your officiant, I am here to help make that happen, ensuring your marriage is not only legal but also memorable and heartfelt.
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Rachel and Jeremy were such kind and warm people, it was a joy to spend time with them. They chose to have an intimate wedding ceremony at the All Saints Chapel in Howell. 

First let me tell you a bit about this chapel. It is originally built in the 1800's and it is beautiful on the inside and out. The wonderful coordinator was great to work with. She assisted with streaming the music, getting the processional in order and sending people down the aisle. Not every wedding venue offers a coordinator, so this was a great service to have, it truly makes the day so much easier to enjoy. 

Jeremy and Rachel chose to keep the ceremony simple and sweet. They exchanged wedding vows and rings and I was able to intertwine their love story into the wedding ceremony. They have been together for 10 years and January 11th they made it legal, surrounded by loving family and friends their love was beautiful to see. 

You used to think an elopement meant traveling to a far off place in secret to marry your soul mate. However, today elopements can be done right near your home town and with you loving tribe standing right with you. The idea of an elopement is a simple sweet wedding ceremony. Simple and sweet...think around 10 guests, or less, the focus is on the two of you getting hitched and that's it. 

There are so many reasons couples chose an elopement ceremony and there is simply no wrong answer. I mean the entire reason I became an Ordained Officiant is so that every couple could have the marriage of their dreams so they could get married however they wanted. 

January 10, 2019 Karly and Derek got married! They chose to have an intimate wedding ceremony at the Gandy Dancer in Ann Arbor surrounded by their closest family and friends. 

The Gandy Dancer in Ann Arbor offers a few private rooms to choose from. Karly and Derek were upstairs in the loft area. The table was set perfectly and the staff was amazing. They saw to every detail, their service was impeccable.

It was time to begin the elopement ceremony. Karly and Derek chose to take the stairs to make a quiet and loving entrance, they stood at the head of the table where their family was seated. I stood off to the side to allow for pictures without me in them. 

We shared a sweet elopement ceremony that spoke words of love and the meaning of a wedding ceremony, how a wedding ceremony is a celebration of journey and a highlight of your love. They shared simple vows with each other and exchanged rings. And of course I was able to pronounce them husband and wife and they celebrated with a kiss. After the elopement ceremony they shared celebratory hugs with family and we ended my time with them by signing the marriage license (had to make it legal). 

Karly wore a beautiful flower crown and long burgundy dress, it was perfect for her. Derek wore a suit that fit him perfectly. Karly had a beautiful bouquet of flowers. 

Their intimate wedding ceremony and celebration was perfect for them. It was such a wonderful time and I am excited to have shared this moment with them. ​