Specialties
I create and officiate at custom memorable personalized ceremonies marking lifecycle milestones, most commonly weddings and funerals, specializing in interfaith, non-religious, non-denominational, Jewish, and same-sex ceremonies. Custom ceremonies reflect the personalities of the couples or of the deceased. Chicagoland area, Wisconsin, Indiana.
History
Established in 2010.
"Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can." John Wesley, founder of Methodism.
This philosophy embodies the Jewish concept of 'tikkun olam' - to leave the world better than we found it, certainly a noble humanistic approach, whatever one's religion (or lack thereof). Upon hearing this quote, I experienced an "Aha!" moment as I realized that all my life, this quote has guided me, as I sought to integrate these core values into my personal and professional lives.
I was especially motivated to create interfaith wedding ceremonies that acknowledge, honor, and respect different religions (or none), cultures, customs, and traditions. Wedding ceremonies should be as unique as the couple's relationship.
I have also been privileged to officiate at many civil unon ceremonies since they became legal in Illinois in June of 2011.
Meet the Business Owner: Michele R.
In March of 2009, my corporate job allowed me the opportunity to follow my passion - so here I am - a Certified Wedding Celebrant!
My previous jobs, all of which have offered me the opportunity to impact people's lives in various ways (often as a pioneer in the field), allowed me to develop and hone the skills I now use as a Wedding Celebrant. Among others, these jobs included: Vegetarian Cooking Instructor, Personal Computer Instructor, Human Resources Specialist, Corporate Trainer, Technical Writer.
My educational background consists of Wedding Celebrant Certification, Celebrant Foundation & Institute, M.S. in Human Resources, B.S in Sociology and Psychology.
On a personal note, the first wedding ceremony I ever created was my own wedding, combining traditional and contemporary elements!