New Year's Resolutions ... two lists

I found this in my inbox this morning. It's timely.

Let's DO it!

http://www.dailyom.com/articles/2008/16540.html

Many blessings,
Rev. Jeri

Happy Holidays!

And may we ALL be blessed with peace, prosperity, and LOVE!

I'm affirming a wonderful 2009!

Blessings,
Jeri

Reunion.com? No way!

One of my friends invited me to join "Reunion.com" and I did -- and it sent out an "invitation to join" to everyone in my address book.

I am SO SORRY! I immediately canceled my connection but, alas, not before many spam-like "invitations" were sent out to my friends, colleagues and business associates.

If YOU got an invitation to join, please forgive me.

Chagrined,
Rev. Jeri

A new photo!

I recently performed a ceremony for two delightful gentlemen, Leon and Carlos. The weather was COLD, but their guests were so excited and happy for this couple that we soon forgot the temperature!

We did have one small challenge, though -- Leon is a wedding photographer, and it was sometimes difficult for him to "give up the reins" of business and enjoy being a groom! He did, however, and he's promised me some photos of the wedding -- which I will post on my blog and include in my book.

As a special thank you, Leon offered to take formal portrait of me. I love it, and just couldn't wait to post it, so here it is!

(How did he inspire my best smiles? Rather than asking me to say "Cheese," he said, "Say 'I do!'" Hmmmm ... guess I'm in the right business!)

And if you want to see more of his work, follow this link: Fredette Photography.

Thank you, Leon! And ... congratulations, Leon and Carlos!

Big smiles!
Rev. Jeri

Another type of "celebration"

Not only do I perform weddings, but occasionally I am asked to officiate at a "celebration of life" or memorial service. I had the opportunity to perform such a service at Sierra View Funeral Chapel on Friday evening.

While this is always a humbling experience, Friday's celebration of life included a beautiful "extra touch."

One of my wedding colleagues, David Van Enger of Music in Motion, prepared a DVD of photos of the deceased, matched with the "perfect" music as background. What a blessing for everyone in attendance, to see the photos of this beautiful lady. I hope to see more photo DVDs in the future.

After the service, the family and friends spent some time at Sierra View, eating and visiting. This family was from out-of-town, and I am not sure where they got the food.

However, I know that Hannibal's Catering has wonderful food and offers special all-inclusive packages for memorials and funerals. My friend, Jennifer Baker, recently joined the Hannibal's team as an Event Coordinator. She treated me to lunch and, as a vegan, I was delightfully surprised at the choices I had. Yummy Food!! Give it a try! And if you visit the Rancho Cordova location, please tell Jennifer I sent you!

Blessings,
Rev. Jeri

Making Your Ceremony Your Own

I just picked up the Winter/Spring 2009 issue of Real Weddings magazine and ... I'm published!

Editor Wendy Sipple invited me to write a brief article about "making your ceremony your own." (Who knew it would be such a challenge to keep it to 500 words or less!!)

Anyhow, you can find the article on page 34 of the magazine, with some ideas gleaned from brides with whom I've worked recently.

(I could share the ideas here, but would rather you get your hands on a copy of the magazine. Lots of great ideas therein!)

The photo, showing me performing the wedding ceremony of Katherine "Ryn" and Daniel Gumpert, was taken by Sarah Maren Photography. She's a delight to work with! And do you recognize the bride? Ryn and Daniel were mentioned previously in my blog, when I commended them for donating to the Make a Wish Foundation.

So, now that I've written the article, I'd like feedback. What did you think of the ideas presented? And, do you have other suggestions that weren't mentioned? I'm always looking for ways to improve, making the ceremony extra special for the couple.

I'll be watching for your good advice!

Blessings,
Rev. Jeri