We're so lucky to get to work with amazing wedding industry pros to make wedding magic happen! In this new series, we'll be introducing you to some of our favorite people in the industry.
Today, we're chatting with officiant/coach/counselor/yoga teacher extraordinaire, Hope Mirlis of A More Perfect Union. We've had the pleasure of working with Hope on some amazingly beautiful weddings over the years. Her ceremonies are one of a kind - just like you!
Photo by Kamila Harris
How did you end up in the wedding industry?
A close friend of mine asked me to officiate her wedding. After saying no, she finally wore me down! And needless to say, creating and performing the ceremony was a magical experience. Within 2 years I completely changed careers and created my pre-marital counseling program.
Describe your business, elevator pitch style. What makes you/your business awesome?
I have a Zen wedding business. I’ve created a practice to join the body, mind and soul through officiating wedding ceremonies, pre-marital counseling and a special yoga practice for weddings! I provide a nurturing and safe space in which to prepare for marriage and celebrate the union.
What's your favorite thing about weddings?
Oh gosh, there are so many favorite things! The attention and care of the bridesmaids in the ritual I do with brides at the end of yoga on the morning of the big day, the nervous laughter just as we're about to being the ceremony and the joy before the long awaited kiss! I get the best view.
Photo by Les Loups
What kind of couples do you click with?
For counseling, I love couples who understand that doing the work with me does not mean there are problems with their relationship. Taking time to discuss the issues that typically challenge marriages can only strengthen the relationship you have. In terms of wedding ceremonies, I love couples that embrace the importance of ritual and community and are excited to tell their story.
I'm sure you have a lot of amazing memories from past weddings - what is one of your favorite wedding stories?
A few years ago I did a Hindu-Methodist fusion wedding. It was a lovely mix of the two traditions and really honored the couple and their families. One of the guests was a Priest and he approached me after the ceremony. He said that he performed hundreds of ceremonies over the years, but could never have done what I did. Truly offer a personal, welcoming and intimate experience. I was beyond humbled.
What is your best piece of advice for couples planning a wedding? *Serious advice - mistakes to avoid/logistical pitfalls/etc.
Don't forget to keep dating! The planning process can be overwhelming and stressful. It's important to remember why you're doing it! So I encourage couples to keep courting. Write love letters to each other and offer little things the other might love or appreciate on a regular basis.
Photo by Casey Fatchett
What are your non-wedding related hobbies?
I'm a foodie, so I love cooking and trying new restaurants.
What song is guaranteed to make you dance? "Groove Is In the Heart" - Deee-Lite
Where is your favorite place to travel?
I've been all over Europe the last few years. I am super excited to go to Belize and Reykjavik next year.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
It has long been a trend for couples to ask friends to officiate their weddings. Heck, I even became an officiant to marry a friend. While it’s an exciting challenge for a friend or a family member, it can be daunting. So I recently started consulting “friend officiants” to better prepare for the task of writing and performing a ceremony, along with handling all of the legal and logistical requirements. If you or any couple you know may be going that route, feel free to contact me!
Photo by Andrea Reese
So, if you're looking for a personal, welcoming & intimate experience (it's so true!) or have a friend officiating that might need a little bit of professional guidance, reach out to our friend Hope at A More Perfect Union & follow her on social media too - Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest.
*Please note, LVR Events is neither paid nor perk’d by any of the vendors featured on our blog. We just really like working with them & think you will too! xoxo
