Obtaining a Marriage License in Florida

Here's a bit of information about securing a Marriage License in Florida Most of you may know this already, so it is a refresher. ALL of the Florida Resident couples that utilize the services of LovingUnity receive the Marriage Preparation Course which will enable them to receive a discount of $32.50 off the cost of the marriage license. Not only is the discount great, but it gives couples time - 4 hours in fact - to spend time going over important details of the important matters in a relationship. The course covers raising children or not, financial dealings, managing family and step family issues, general communication, religious views and practices,resolving conflicts, and the expectations of the couple in marriage.

Here's what you need to know about getting a Marriage License in Florida:

• You do not have to be a resident of Florida. The 3 day waiting period is waived for those who reside outside of Florida. Both Bride and Groom must present proof of residency from another state, such as your drivers license.





• Picture ID, and your Social Security Card or a valid passport number or I-94 card. You may be asked for a certified copy of your birth certificate.





• Regarding previous marriages, the date of your divorce, or date of spouse's death must be supplied. A certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate is required.





• Regarding the Waiting Period, there is no 3 day waiting period for those Florida couples who have taken the Marriage Prep Course within the last 12 months. There IS a 3 day waiting period for couples who have not taken the course.





• Fee: $93.50 Those couples who have completed the course are entitled to a discount - the fee would be $61.00.





• Under 18, if under 18 but older than 16, a marriage license can be obtained with parental consent. If a parent has sole custody or the other parent is deceased, the permission of one parent is sufficient. If a person is under age 16, the license must be issued by a county judge with or without parental permission.

Fantastic Association of Bridal Consultants Florida Conference

When I am not officiating weddings, commitment ceremonies, renewals, or memorial services, I try to keep current with the wedding industry. This weekend, I have had the opportunity to attend and participate in the Association of Bridal Consultants Southeast Regional Meeting in St. Augustine. The title of the conference was Exploring the Past, and Building the Future. This is a time where I get to hear fresh ideas, meet bridal consultants from the region, and learn from experts in a variety of fields.

The general session today was called "Destiny - What's yours?" presented by keynote speaker Linnytte Richardon Hall, the Wedding Diva, from Who's Wedding is it Anyway from the Style Network. She was fantastic!! The general session was "Shining Bright and Standing Out" presented by Ana Cruz. You may know Ana from AnaCruz.com She is known also from Who's Wedding is it Anyways?" Both beautiful women had presentations that taught us how to value our professions, how to manage our lives and businesses with elegance and integrity. I will post about these glorious woman at a later time, but wanted to just give you a glimpse into the quality of speakers I had the privilege to enjoy.

The workshops I attended in the afternoon on Saturday were "Branding Yourself to Stand Out in the Social Network Ocean" by David Hanscom. WOW, I have so much still to learn! That is why I will always continue going to conferences to keep sharp. Another session I attended was "Cashing In on Customer Service" presented by Elisa Delgardio of A Flair for Affairs. It is always a constant reminder to treat your clients as you would wish to be treated, from first contact to last. The third session today was "2010 Internet Strategy For Your Business" with Joe Lemire of Elyk Innovation, Inc and Chris Kennelly of Kinnetic Productions. I just need to make some YouTube videos for my website or blog!

The evening dinner was at the beautiful Casa Monica. The Swinging 40's offsite event! It was a beautiful hotel, very historic, reminded me of a Spanish Castle, old World, and the meal was wonderful. After the meal, we were treated to a Ghost Tour. The trolleys took us to St. Augustine lighthouse, and to the oldest jail in America. We were entertained by Charlie, one of the ghosts of the past at the jail. Such a busy day!

Tomorrow, we have our general session "Etiquette and Service Revival" presented by Sandra Monahan.Master Bridal Consultants.

I am so glad that I have the opportunity to attend and learn, and I have so many new, exciting ideas for my couples. It is also great to meet and greet other wedding professionals to share so many awesome ideas. I am proud that being a Wedding Officiant in this Industry has been my D.E.S.T.I.N.Y.

Antique Cars and Weddings? Of course!!

If you just love antique cars and weddings, then this is the mix for you!!!

Jennifer and Richard had selected the Crown Plaza for their wedding and just before the wedding, the location closed!! Without missing a beat, they and their wedding planner, Patricia White Davis, located the Four Points Sheraton in Leominster, Massachusetts. The hotel could not have been more accomodating. Kathy, the Banquet Manager, and Joanne the Wedding Hostess, did an incredible job with such short notice and made Jen and Rich so happy and relieved. It could not have been more beautiful! Jenn was so beautiful and Richard was smashing, and the smiles were beaming as they shared their vows. Rev. David Bishop of LovingUnity.com officiated the wedding. They had chosen a religious ceremonny and the bride entered after the reading of Genesis, Chapter 2. In addition to the wedding and reception, the highlight was having their photos taken next to an antique custom automobile. They had planned to ride off into the sunset but the downpour of rain prevented that, but you will see from the pictuers, it was a fabulous car. Enjoy! Congratulations Jen and Rich!

Reiki Infused Custom Wedding for Jaclyn and Greg

I was thrilled when I was contacted by Jaclyn who wnted to have a Reiki inspired wedding. Jaclyn is a Reiki practitioner, as I am, so it was fantastic to work with her to create this unique and beautiful ritual. The weather was not cooperative at the beginning of the ceremony, while we were staking out the four directions, and smudging the area for the couple. The clouds were dark and threatening, but Jaclyn and Greg were determined to be married at Crescent Beach in Maine. Gondiva brought the couple into the area with the blowing of the Conch shell to the four directions. Everyone donned their umbrellas, and the beautiful bride, and handsome groom arrived all smiles. After smudging the area, a group meditation and energy share took place, and an explanation of the elements was provided to the guests. As the couple exchanged the vows they had written for each other, the rain stopped, and a magnificent rainbow appeared. It was if it was on command! The rainbow yet again reminds us that even if there are storms in life, there are always rainbows that can follow. It was so beautiful and was a great backdrop for their wedding photos. After the wedding, the couple was gifted with a Conch Shell from Gondiva, and Greg was successful in being able to blow the shell after only a few attempts! Such a beautiful couple, such a unique ceremony, and I was so very honored to be asked to work with them and create the ceremony of their dreams. Congratulations Jaclyn and Greg, may you be blessed forever.

Celtic Wedding at the Bilmar Beach Resort, Florida

It was such a pleasure and honor to officiate the Celtic Wedding of Laurie and Frank this weekend!  It all began with beautiful celtic music being played to greet the guests. The vows that they spoke were the traditional celtic vows, and then followed up with their own personal words to each other. As they stated their vows, they each held an oathing stone. One of the stones was an actual piece of the Blarney Stone, and another round stone from the brides family farm in Ireland. Oathing stones are very sacred in the ritual, as the ancients took their vows on sacred stones where spiritual devotions and ancient rituals took place. Stones are part of the earth, and hold the memories of Irish ancestors. To make a binding oath on or near a sacred stone, is to make a powerful and lasting vow, as if your vows are "cast in stone".  Laurie and Frank exchanged wedding rings with the celtic knots circling them.

The handfasting ritual is a celtic ritual that began in the middle ages, demonstrating that the couple is now bound together and are tying the knot.  Laurie and Frank chose a fabric that is the Muirhead Plaid representing his Scottish heritage.

The Loving Cup, called a Quaich, was ordered special for this occasion.  By the 15th century it was common for the Celtic couple to toast each other with a ceremonial cup. This cup is called the Quaich and is a two handled bowl often with an inlaid celtic design.  As with this quaich, it is inlaid with Celtic knotwork that is unending represnting the permanence of the marriage. As a circl symbolises Eternity, so does the celtic knotwork. and the interlacing patterns flowing endlessly on as the sea, with no beginning, no end.  These intricate patterns reached their peak in the 11th century illuminated manuscripts of the Lindifarne Gospels and the Book of Kells. Laurie and Frank toasted to their love of the past, present and future and their happiness at finding their Anam Cara - soul friend.  The cup is then passed down from generation to generation, ensuring happiness and good fortune for all who drink from it.

Frank and Laurie also blended their families together with a sand ritual, using sand from Sand Key, their favorite beach.

After the wedding the wedding party was introducted in to an irish jig, which they all enjoyed.  Congratulations Laurie and Frank!  I was very honored to celebrate your heritage and mine as well!  Laurie and Frank.... Slante'

Association of Bridal Consultants Workshop

WOW! Today I experienced a great workshop! The workshops are put on by the Association of Bridal Consultants and we were at the Spruce Creek Country Club in Port Orange. One of the things that really impresses me is how the association provides such great education topics. Even tho I am an officiant, running my own business, it helps to have guidance and insight, and I can really appreciate how hard the Wedding and Event Planners and Consultants with ABC work. I am proud to be a member. Oh.....so many new ideas to implement!!!!!!!!! I will keep you posted!!! Great job facilitators Tammy Waterman and Lisa Burnett!! So proud of you! Elise Enloe our State Coordinator is always working hard to provide us with these great opportunities to broaden our education. Have you joined ABC yet? Have you gone to an ABC Network Meeting Yet?? If not, why not???????

ABC Tallahassee Local Networking Group

I love the opportunity to work and speak to Local Networking Groups. This evening, I had the opportunity to speak before the Tallahassee Local Networking group about Blogging for Sole Proprietors. What fun!!! I had the opportunity to work with three professionals to create their very own blogs. Have a look!

http://TallahasseeMobileWeddings.blogspot.com
http://SMEzekielEvents.blogspot.com
http://GoldenGatherings.blogspot.com

For those of you who didn't get a chance to make it, I am sorry I missed you! I had so much information to share! For those of you that attended, Thank You! I am honored that I was able to work with you and help you grow in your businesses. I wish you the best in all of your ventures, and happy blogging!!!!!!!

Thank you Danette for inviting me. It was wonderful!

Marriage Prep Course for Florida Couples of Tampa Bay Area

It's time to sign up to take the Pre-Marital Marriage Prep Course that I will be offering!  Couples get the chance to take the course to learn about each other and how to manage their lives together along with the opportunity to get a discount on their marriage license!!!
Date: Sunday, March 28th
Time:  2:30 - 5:00 pm
Location:  Pinellas Park, FL
Cost:  If registered by March 14th the fee is $20 per couple, if registering at the door $25.00 per couple.
I am planning for this course to be FUN as well as informative!

Additionally,  If I am secured as your wedding officiant, there is NO FEE for this course, it is my gift to you! 

Email me at  LovingUnity@gmail.com  to register

Second Tv Appearance for Loving Unity

An unusual call of duty for a Wedding minister, but the cause is so worth it, that how could I refuse the request for my help. Once again, Loving Unity's own, Rev. Virginia Bishop is modeling gowns for a cause. What cause you ask, Brides Against Breast Cancer.. Making Memories Foundation is bringing the annual sale of Gowns called Brides Against Breast Cancer to Tampa this weekend...

Check out the link below of the Tv segment that aired today and see if you catch me in a fabulous gown for the cause.

http://www.studio10.tv/day/monday/segment.aspx/126042/Brides_Against_Breast_Cancer

For more details abour Brides Against Breast Cancer visit: http://www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org/

Brides Against Breast Cancer- What can you do?

Davis Island Garden Club Bridal Showcase

Don't forget to mark your calendar for the Third Annual Davis Islands Garden Club Bridal Showcase!  This is your opportunity to come and meet some of Tampa Bay's Greatest Wedding Vendors - Yes, I am one of them!  There will be a great bridal show, live music, signature cocktails and capanes plus your chance to win great prizes!  Yes, I will have a booth there, to showcase my bamboo arch for rent as well as the services of Loving Unity Officiants, and I will also be there taking photos for the blog. So if you are there, make sure to stop me to say hi!!! 

The date is Sunday, February 28th from Noon to 4pm and the cost is $5.00  The location is the Davis Island Garden Club on 81 Columbia Drive, in Tampa.  Looking forward to seeing you there!

Wedding Stress? Reiki relaxes you!

I want to chat with you about stress management and how to cope with your marriage stress. In particular, your wedding day stress. Stress is really the state of mind most likely to ruin your special day, and your event. As a Reiki practitioner, I want to tell you how Reiki is the ultimate "Stress Management Tool" amd how I can channel Reiki Healing Energy to quiet your mind, and body, and relax you. I can relax your body to have a clear mind, being held with stillness and silence, and help you with the healing energy that will give your whole "Self" the opportunity for being restored and refreshed.

On the months leading up to the Wedding Day, if you would like, you can arrange for your guests, and your wedding party, and in particular the Bride and Groom, to have a Reiki Treatment before the big day. You will truy be amazed at hw stress free everyone can be. You will be able to cope with the stress that the big day creates, and you will be happy with the results! This reduction in stress will help you to cope with whatever curves life throws you!

Stress is actually a rising cause of sickness from work, which replaces bad backs as the main cause for people's illness and loss of time from work.

I believe that anything that reduces stress is worth the trial. It would be recommended that Brides and Grooms have a Reiki session approximately two weeks prior to the wedding and then have the Reiki Practicioner come to your home the morning of the wedding and provide Reiki to the Bride and Mother of the Bride. In addition, the bridesmaids could benefit as well. It will definitely make a big difference in the way that the day will go. The stress is relieved to a great extent to everyone's relief.

Physicians are fully aware of the presence of stress - they are vulnerable to it themselves! Stress is how you perceive the demands and pressures that life presents, and how you are able to draw on your inner resources to cope. What you find unable to cope with today, you will take everying in stride with Reiki.

Reiki is NOT a religion, although it does have some guiding priciples.

1. Just for today, do not worry.

2. Just for today, do not anger.

3. Honor your parents, teachers and elders.

4. Earn your living honestly.

5. Show gratitude for every living thing.

The point of these principles is that the life force relies on the views and judgements that we practice and make known. In other words, if we think positively, and try to feel only good feelings, such as caring and closeness, and dedicate our lives to disipline and preserverance (to the best of our ability) the life energy is profuse and the stress diminishes to that which we can copy with.

As a Reiki practitioner, I would be honored to work with my couples and their families to produce for them the most stress free and enjoyable environment for their wedding as possible. Appointments are available. Please phone me to discuss your options.

Namaste'