Frequently Asked Questions

ARE YOU A NOTARY OR A JUSTICE OF THE PEACE?

I am a Licensed Minister and Notary Public for the State of Florida.  Florida, Maine and S. Carolina are the only states that give Notaries the authority to perform marriage ceremonies.  This means that I can perform a legal marriage ceremony anywhere within Florida, and these marriages are valid world-wide.  Florida does not have Justices of the Peace. 

WHAT ARE NON-DEMONINATIONAL CEREMONIES?  DO YOU PERFORM RELIGIOUS CEREMONIES?

As a Licensed Minister and Notary Public, I perform all types of ceremonies, from civil to non-denominational religious ceremonies.  I can include some religious elements if you would like.  For example, we can include the phrase “in the presence of God” in the greeting, or you can have a family member or friend say a prayer or recite a passage from the Bible.  We can also incorporate some religious activities, such as the lighting of the Unity Candle or Breaking of the Glass. 

CAN WE MEET WITH YOU BEFORE WE BOOK YOUR SERVICES?

We can discuss the same things by phone or email as we can in person, but my number one rule is, you must feel comfortable with me as your Officiant, so some couples prefer a face-to-face meeting.  If you would like to meet with me, just let me know and we will set a date for a no charge, “get acquainted” consultation.  I request that you come to my home/office in the Arlington area of Jacksonville. 

CAN YOU SEND US SOME REFERENCES?

If requested, I will put you in touch with 2-3 of my most recent couples.  You may also view some testimonials provided about me by recent couples on my website at www.avowtwokeep.com. 

HOW FAR DO YOU TRAVEL FOR REHEARSALS AND WEDDINGS?

Package prices are based on travel within a 30 mile (round-trip) radius of my hone office location.  Additional mileage over the first 30 (round-trip) will be calculated using Map Quest, at a rate of $1.00 (one dollar) per mile. 

HOW DO WE GET OUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?

To be married in Florida, you can get your license at any Florida marriage license bureau.  If you will be arriving from out of town and do not have time to visit an office, you can always get your license in advance by mail and I can assist you with those details. 

DO YOU PERFORM VOW RENEWAL CEREMONIES?

Yes, I perform vow renewal ceremonies or re-commitment ceremonies but I perform them in an unofficial capacity as there is no legal document involved. 

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DO WE NEED A REHEARSAL?

As a guideline, if you have more than four people in your processional, it makes good sense to have a rehearsal.  It is very easy for attendants to be confused about when & how to walk and where to stand.  If you have children in the bridal party or are having parents seated, a rehearsal is even more important. 

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE REHEARSAL?

Generally, you get everyone who will be a participant in the ceremony to the site where the wedding will take place, and then I walk everyone through the processional, ceremony, and recessional 2 – 3 times.  I give many tips and ideas about how to make sure it all flows smoothly for the real event.  The rehearsal takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the size of the bridal party.

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 CEREMONY FAQ 

I HAVE NO CLUE ABOUT CEREMONY TRADITIONS AND ACTIVITIES, CAN YOU HELP?

I can advise you on all of the aspects of the ceremony.  Once you have secured my services, you can feel free to call or email me as often as needed with questions or concerns. 

WHAT IS THE USUAL LENGTH FOR A WEDDING CEREMONY?

If you select one of my pre-scripted ceremonies, the ceremony will last about 15 – 20 minutes.  If you wish to make the ceremony a bit longer, you can create your own ceremony by using the Ceremony Planner I can provide and include additional readings or a Specialty Ceremony of your choice. 

WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR MARRIAGE LICENSE AFTER THE CEREMONY?

I have 2 witnesses sign (optional) the license and then I complete the marriage certificate portion.  On the next business day, I mail it to the county clerk’s office where it was issued.  I also keep a copy for my records.  After it is processed, the clerk’s office will send you a certified copy in the mail.  This usually takes about 2 weeks. 

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DO YOU PROVIDE A CONTRACT?

Yes.  Several couples have expressed an interest in having a contract.  Although my inclination is to be less formal, it does make sense to ensure that all parties feel secure and have some fine print to refer to in the unlikely case of disagreement.  Therefore, I am now asking all couples to read and sign the Terms of Agreement when sending their deposit. 

HOW DO I BOOK YOU TO PERFORM MY CEREMONY?

Please contact me by email (Cheryl@avowtwokeep.com) or phone (904-226-4658 or 904-220-4139) and I will let you know whether I am available for your date and then I will mail you my brochure, Terms of Agreement form and business card.  This brochure gives my mailing address for sending the 50% deposit.  Once I receive the deposit, I place your wedding date on my calendar. 

WHAT TYPES OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT AND WHEN?

The 50% deposit can be made by check, cashier’s check or money order, or in cash, if I meet with you in person.  The balance is due on or before the wedding date.  Checks will be accepted up to 2 weeks (14 days) prior to the wedding date and Cash, Cashiers Check or Money Orders will be accepted if paying on the day of the ceremony.