The ceremony is the reason everyone gathers.
Let’s make it unforgettable.
Your wedding day is right around the corner, and finding your officiant to create a beautiful ceremony is a pretty big deal. Together, we will create a wedding ceremony that reflects you, your culture, your values, and, most importantly, your love.
I bring professionalism, warmth, and genuine care to my work, and my couples rave about the impact of the ceremony during and after the big day.
Every step of the way, I’ll be with you, and I look forward to hearing your stories and working with you to deliver a ceremony that is as distinct and diverse as you are!
What It’s Like to Work Together
1. Schedule Your Consultation
Every ceremony begins with a conversation. We’ll get to know one another, talk about your wedding vision, and make sure we’re a great fit before moving forward.
2. Reserve Your Date
Once you’re ready, your date is officially reserved. You’ll receive access to your personalized client portal, where everything from questionnaires to ceremony planning is organized in one place.
3. Design Your Ceremony
Together, we’ll create a ceremony that reflects your relationship, your personalities, your values, and the experience you want your guests to remember.
Need help writing vows?
Want to include cultural traditions?
Looking for unity ceremony ideas?
We’ll walk through it together.
4. Relationship Hour (My Favorite Part)
This part is less about planning your wedding and more of a grounding moment for your wedding day.
During our Relationship Hour, we’ll intentionally step away from timelines and logistics to reconnect as a couple and talk about the relationship you’ve built and the marriage you’re looking forward to. Think of it as the prelude to the love letter to your future selves and your guests!
5. Wedding Day
I’ll arrive early, communicate with your vendor team, guide everyone through the ceremony (especially the photo ops!), and make sure you can simply enjoy getting married.
Then I’ll complete and file your marriage license after your ceremony.
Notice something?
This is an experience, not just a 30-minute to-do!
Every Ceremony Experience Includes
A personalized consultation
A custom-written ceremony
A private client portal
Ceremony planning guidance
Vow or Love Letter support (if desired)
Marriage license completion, filing, and guidance
Ongoing communication leading up to your wedding and beyond
Their Words, Not Mine
“She took the time to get to know us prior to the wedding, and every moment spent with her was valuable.”
-Flannery & Ryan
“We had a custom ceremony script that was tailored directly to our wedding. She took all the information that she learned about us over the past few months and created a magnificent script. What stood out for me the most was the fact that we had 5 dogs and they couldn't be in attendance, but she still made sure they were a part of our ceremony and vows.”
-Devan & Derrick
“Our families commented on how moving and beautifully delivered the ceremony was, which speaks volumes to Sharnise’s talent and dedication that pulled together families with different religious and cultural backgrounds. We feel incredibly lucky to have had her as part of our wedding and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a rockstar and unforgettable officiant.”
-Brittany and David
“Sharnise is indescribable. She captivated the entire room, and we received so many compliments on her ceremony. She was able to move the room by making us laugh, cry, and feel all of the love. She blended a traditional ceremony with Hindu values, and it was done so perfectly. We felt as though one of our oldest friends was marrying us. It was truly the most personal and touching ceremony, I wish we could relive it over and over again.” - Whitney & Dylan
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you create custom wedding ceremonies?
Yes. Your ceremony is created to reflect your relationship, personalities, values, culture, and the experience you want your guests to have. I do not simply read the same ceremony for every couple; that’s no fun!
Do you perform religious and non-religious ceremonies?
Yes. I officiate religious, spiritual, secular, interfaith, and culturally inclusive ceremonies. We will discuss what feels authentic to you and what you would prefer not to include.
Can we include cultural traditions or family members?
Absolutely. Cultural traditions, unity rituals, meaningful readings, and family participation can all be thoughtfully incorporated into your ceremony. Adding friends, family members, or special guests to your ceremony is a beautiful way to make your day all the more memorable.
Will you help us write our vows?
Yes, and your love letters (first look) too! You may write personal vows, use traditional vows, or combine the two. I provide guidance and support so your vows sound like you without using AI (no shade).
Is a rehearsal included?
Some say officiants aren't necessary at the rehearsal, but I beg to differ! Rehearsal availability depends on the ceremony experience you select and the rehearsal date/time. When a rehearsal is included, I guide the ceremony participants through the processional, positioning, transitions, and recessional so everyone feels prepared.
What happens after we book?
Once your date is reserved, you will receive access to your private client portal. It will contain your questionnaires, planning information, meeting details, resources, and next steps leading up to the wedding.
How far in advance should we book?
Most couples reserve their date several months to more than a year in advance. Popular dates fill quickly, so it is best to inquire as soon as you know your wedding date and location.
Do you travel outside of Cleveland?
Yes. I serve couples throughout Northeast Ohio and am available for travel and destination weddings. Travel fees may apply depending on the location and schedule.
Do you handle the marriage license?
You are responsible for obtaining the marriage license from the appropriate probate court, and I will walk you through the details specific to your county and its guidelines. After the ceremony, I will complete the officiant portion, return it in accordance with the county’s requirements, and follow up with the marriage certificate and any questions you may have.
Do we have to complete premarital education?
Premarital education is not required to hire me as your officiant, but it is available for couples who want to prepare more intentionally for marriage. You may choose private virtual sessions or a group marriage education experience.
What if we are nervous about speaking in front of everyone?
That is completely normal. I will guide you through the ceremony, explain what to expect, and help you feel comfortable before the wedding day. You will not be left wondering what to say or do; at the very least, you will say “I do,” so start practicing now!
How do we get started?
Begin by submitting the inquiry form with your wedding date, venue, and a few details about your celebration. We will then schedule a consultation to discuss your vision and determine whether we are a good fit.