In February 2012, I was asked by two friends if I would officiate their upcoming wedding. It was an interesting request, but one that this couple had put some considerable thought into. I, of course, immediately said yes. As soon as I said those words my mind started to race…

What did I just get myself into?

What if I can’t do this?

I don’t want to ruin this couple’s special day.

I have been to many weddings before. I have been in many weddings before; be it as Groom, Best Man, Groomsman, Usher, Ring Bearer, but never as Officiant. What kind of ceremony should I perform? If I were to get married all over again, what would I want? I would want something personal something special. So that’s exactly what I did.

I had known this couple for many years but I still took the time and spoke to each of them both together and separately and then I just wrote from my heart.

The results spoke for themselves. Not only was the couple impressed, but I cannot tell you how many people, friends and strangers alike, pulled me aside throughout the evening to tell me how much they enjoyed the ceremony. It was a great feeling knowing that I had played such a significant role in the joining of these two people together in matrimony.

My wife, whose opinion I value over everything, was so impressed that she thought I should look into doing this professionally. So, what started as a favor to a friend has blossomed into ceremonies for family members, friends of friends and to the site you are on today.

Thank you,

Steven J. Shaw
The NY Wedding Officiant