BACKGROUND & PHILOSOPHY

I bring to you a professional background of journalism, public relations and community service and have conducted hundreds of wedding ceremonies throughout the state since 1989. I have also officiated at many civil unions and now conduct marriage ceremonies for gay couples as well.

My philosophy is that a marriage ceremony should reflect your personal wishes. As a Justice of the Peace, I perform civil ceremonies (as opposed to religious). However, I will be pleased to introduce ethnic or religious traditions into your celebration.

I will conduct your wedding anywhere in Connecticut at almost any location you choose, and will work with you to help create a meaningful, memorable and personal celebration.

A meeting with me in advance of your ceremony will ensure a comfort level for you. If requested, I can direct your wedding rehearsal. Also, I am pleased to conduct vow renewal ceremonies for couples.

CONNECTICUT REQUIREMENTS

Couples must apply together for a Marriage License at the town clerk's office in the town or city in which the wedding will take place. The license is issued when the application has been completed. It will be valid for about 60 days from the date of issue.

Couples must surrender the license to the officiant prior to the ceremony; she/he will complete and return it to the city or town registrar of vital statistics in which the wedding takes place, where it will be recorded and kept on file. Connecticut does not require blood tests or witnesses to marriage ceremonies.

PERSONALIZING YOUR CEREMONY

I Can Help You Say “I Do” by providing:

• a selection of vows
• a selection of ring exchange pledges
• a selection of verses, poems, readings

Procession and Procedure

• a place for everyone
• order and pace of the procession
• what everyone does with their hands

Dressing Up or Down?

• Tuxedos?
• Gown or Dress?
• Jeans?
• Shorts?

Cultural or Contemporary?

Fee for service varies, depending on time spent for conferences, rehearsal, and travel.

PHONE 860-304-6726	EMAIL coffeyjp@aol.com