WEDDINGS SINCE 1962 (Rev.) Edward "Bud" Andre Half Moon Bay, CA 94019 ph: 650.726.5684    fax: 650.726.5684             edwardandre@comcast.net     www.sandpiperceremonies.com

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Questions You Are Dying To Ask First: Who are you? I am a legally licensed, ordained, interfaith and civil wedding officiant with several years of experience Can you perform all  ceremonies? Yes, whether Civil, Spiritual, Poetic and Romantic, or Religious, large or intimate, formal or  informal. What are your fees? Wedding and all meetings: $450. Separate rehearsal: additional $150. Do you also perform small, less expensive weddings? Yes, with certain restrictions.  Wedding - $250. (See details under "Fee Schuedule"). Where do you perform your weddings? I specialize in the Half Moon Bay / Coastside area of the San Francisco Peninsula. Is it true what they say, that you are incredibly kind, patient, brilliant and humble? Yes. Without  any hesitation, therefore,

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Q. How do we get started? A. Here's how.. 1. Give me a call at: 650.726.5684, or email me at edwardandre@comcast.net 2. I can answer your immediate questions right then, and, if you wish, reserve your wedding date and time. 3. I will need your mailing address, so I can send you a packet of material regarding vows, readings, license, order of ceremony, etc. 4. When you receive the packet and have a chance to go over it together, I would like to meet with you, most likely at my home on the beach in Half Moon Bay (very easy-to-follow directions are in the packet) so we can get to know each other and go over all details and choices for the ceremony. Even then, you still have no obligation whatsoever to use me as your wedding officiant. 5. I will encourage you to stay in touch with me right up to the ceremony itself to answer questions, make recommendations, solve problems, or just chat for a while. 6. At this time, we will again confirm the date and time of rehearsal, ceremony, and future meetings.  THESE DATES ARE RESERVED FOR YOU UNLESS YOU TELL ME OTHERWISE.

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Brief Bio: * Born and raised in San Francisco, CA (Sunset, Glen Park and Mission districts) * Catholic priest in San Francisco (Mission Dolores and St. Vincent de Paul) and Redwood City (St. Matthias) churches * Left active priesthood with permission (written in Latin, so I think it was permission) * Married Joan Egly in a wonderfully simple and romantic ceremony * Entered law enforcement in San Mateo County: Manager in Probation Department, (Adult Division); and Director, Victim of Violent Crime Unit, San Mateo County, presently a division of the Office of the District Attorney.  Still continued to perform weddings * Retired. Received several awards from Federal, State and local agencies for leadership and innovation in law enforcement and crime victim advocacy in California. * Lives on the beach in Half Moon Bay * Still married, still in love. Q: What are your credentials as a marriage officiant/celebrant? A. 1. Celebrating weddings since 1962 2. Have officiated at approximately 2,650 weddings thus far 3. Certified member of and recommended by, the following national and international organizations: * Long-time officiant of the American Fellowship Church and is registered and certified there as an Interfaith and Nondenominational minister * Certified by the International Council of Community Churches, a U.S. based ecclesiastical endorsing organization recognized by the U.S. government (Department of Defense / Military Chaplains) *City of Half Moon Bay Business License Certificate #08203 * Member of the Half Moon Bay Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau * Life member of the National Registry of Who's Who In America * Recommended by the National Organization of Wedding Officiants * Recommended by several local and statewide wedding officiants and clergy when, for whatever reason, they themselves are unable to officiate at certain weddings. *Twelve years of inside-the-walls, rigorous study and training for the priesthood. * Graduated with honors from St. Patrick's Seminary / University, 320 Middlefield Road, Menlo Park, CA * State of California accredited degrees: Bachelor of Arts: Philosophy and Communication;Masters in Divinity (M.Div) 4 years of post-graduate study in Theology, Canon Law and Counseling/Public Speaking (along with ancient Greek and Latin, not terribly in demand in today's job market!). * Eight years of inner city parish work in San Francisco (Mission Dolores Basilica and St. Vincent de Paul churches) and in Redwood City (St. Matthias church) including teaching, hospital chaplaincy, military liaison, public speaking, and many, many marriages. *Comes highly recommended by Joan Andre, his very discriminating wife, and by their son, Stephen. Because of them both, he now knows everything there is to know about marriage and wedded bliss. Q. And why is any of this important to us? A. Because I hope this does tell you....... that I love performing weddings, that I care deeply about you and your wedding, that I do know what I am doing, and that I will never disappoint you. That is a promise. Q. How many weddings have you performed? A. Thus far, I have officiated at 2,650+ weddings and look forward to making yours as special as those that went before. They have ranged from rigidly formal weddings to weddings with only the bride and groom present, with my wife or photographer or site manager acting as the required witness. Some awesome in size (over 1100 guests), weddings of royalty, society and military weddings, in cathedrals, basilicas, and churches, in every type of home and garden imaginable, on mountain tops and in heavy forest, in hospitals and Intensive Care Units, on floating docks, in art galleries, in classic hotels and inns; at lakes, beaches, and lighthouses in inner city tenements as well as well as country clubs, dressed in formal black or informal jeans, dressed in period and ethnic outfits or religious robes, Some weddings quiet and dignified, some hectic and frenzied. Q. Are you affiliated with other officiants that you could recommend in other parts of the State or country? A. Yes. Many throughout the state and across the U.S.A. Information upon request (no charge). Q. Do you perform several weddings in a day or a week? A. No, I do not perform "assembly-line" weddings. I care, and you care, far too much to use such an impersonal, cookie-cutter approach. Q. Do you sell packages that include cake, flowers, hotel, etc.? A. No, I will not  try to sell you cake or flowers or packages or time shares, just the finest wedding ceremony in this galaxy. But I can refer you to any one of several reputable vendors, many of whom are listed in the Coastside Guide, which I will give you. Q. Do you work with wedding coordinators, event planners, etc.? A. I always welcome the knowledge and expertise of wedding planners and have always worked successfully and comfortably with them. I have even worked with 20+ wedding coordinators on one (!) wedding, through the company that plans and produces the awards presentations for the entertainment industry.  However, I am equally comfortable helping plan your wedding directly with you, your mother, your friend, or even your father! Q. What happens if we have a change of plans or need to cancel? A. I do reserve your date and time and ask only that you let me know of any such changes to that date so I can free that day for other couples. But, please, do not feel badly on my account if you need to postpone or change the wedding or move the locale entirely, or even choose another officiant. You must feel comfortable with whatever officiant you choose, and I fully understand that. So, to make it easy, all I would ask you to do is email me or leave a phone message about any such cancellations, and it is done. I DO NOT WITHOLD YOUR DEPOSIT OR CHARGE ANY FEE FOR SUCH CHANGE.  You are already under enough pressure and do not need any further hassle from me! Q. What happens if you are unable to perform our wedding, due to illness or road closure or whatever? A. Good question! First, I do work with my own backup wedding officiants,  who share my own philosophy and whom I trust completely. With your approval, I would immediately provide them with all the details of the wedding plan that you requested. Of course, there are other professional and experienced wedding officiants here on the Coastside and in the San Mateo area, that I have also worked with for several years, and to whom I would confidently refer in an emergency. If, however, you would prefer to make some other arrangements, I can also help you with referrals to reliable officiants both in California and across the U.S.A.. Q. Where are your testimonials? A. Again, profound humility prevents me from putting so many letters of praise on this website as they may over-burden the total internet system. However, my pack rat wife, Joan, has been saving them and you are welcome to come and root through them any time you like. Q. Do you personally conduct your weddings? A. Yes, and I can also perform your ceremony together with your own minister, rabbi, or other officiant (I have conducted weddings with Church of England officiants from Westminster Abbey in London, another with three rabbis, etc., really memorable and enjoyable ceremonies).

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Q. In what areas do you specialize? A. I specialize in performing weddings on the extraordinarily beautiful and spectacular San Mateo County Coastside just south of San Francisco, following Coast Highway 1 from Devil's Slide south to Half Moon Bay and  San Gregorio, mostly centered in the Half Moon Bay area. Coastside: towns of Montara, El Granada, Moss Beach, Princeton-by-the-Sea, Miramar, Half Moon Bay, San Gregorio, Pescadero, and Loma Mar. Skyline (Highway 35 area) including La Honda and Skylonda, Woodside, Huddart Park, Purissima Creek Preserve (east end), Crystal Springs chain of lakes and Pulgas Water Temple (both under the jurisdiction of  the City and County of San Francisco) Beaches: Montara State Beach, McNee Ranch State Park, Pillar Point Harbor (Princeton) near Maverick's (of "Men Who Ride Mountains" surfing contest fame), Roosevelt/Naples Beach(where I live), Dunes Beach, Poplar Beach, San Gregorio SB.  Lighthouses: Montara Lighthouse and Pigeon Point Lighthouses, both on Hwy 1.

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Q. What are your most frequent wedding sites? A. Aside from the many Coastside beaches and homes/gardens in my chosen areas, the majority of my recent weddings have been: Coastside: *Ritz-Carlton Wedding Locations, 1 Miramontes Point Road, Half Moon Bay; 650.712.7000  http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Events/Weddings/Default.htm Spectacular location on ocean bluffs with a wide choice of inside/outside wedding sites. It's the Ritz. What else is there to say? *Half Moon Bay Golf Links, 650-773-8895, on the ocean next to the Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay. World class links and clubhouse/restaurant right above the wild Pacific.  Dramatic setting for the perfect wedding. *Mill Rose Inn, 615 Mill Street, Half Moon Bay 650.726.8750 Classic European Elegance by the Sea. Peaceful courtyard surrounded by awesome plants and flowers. * San Benito House 356 Main Street, Half Moon Bay 650.726.3425 www.SanBenitoHouse.com Beautiful large garden setting, part of historic HMB hotel, with a large deck for receptions. * Hastings House, 347 Mirada Road, Half Moon Bay 650.726.2513 Peaceful, enchanted private garden setting on the edge of the Pacific *Harbor House, Princeton-by-the Sea, 346 Princeton Avenue 650.728.1572  Large, fully equipped reception area with deck for weddings right over the water of Princeton Harbor * Costanoa Lodge, 2001 Rossi Road, at Hwy. 1, Pescadero 650.877.1100 or 877.262.7848   www.Costanoa.com Huge forest setting near ocean. Lodge and lawn area for scenic weddings *Chateau La Joye, La Honda Road, San Gregorio, 650-747-0163.  Beautiful country setting, specifically designed and landscaped for outdoor weddings. *Mountain Terrace Inn, 17285 Skyline Blvd (at Skylonda) 650-851-1606. http://themountainterrace.com/ Huge grassy area amid the redwoods on the ridgetop of the Santa Cruz Mountains.  Lodge with great views.  Meadow area for glorious weddings. *Community United Methodist Church, Miramontes and Johnston Streets, Half Moon Bay 650.726.4621  Two beautiful facilities. Historic chapel (100 guests) and new sanctuary (200 guests) All weddings welcome, whether civil or religious. *Pacifica Beach Resort, 525 Crespi Drive, Pacifica , 650-355-9999  Beautiful hotel, restaurant and wedding venue, opposite Pacifica beach. *Long Branch Saloon and Farm, 321 Verde Road, Half Moon Bay, 650-726-3117.  Frontier "town" in south Half Moon Bay, with historical bar and western motif.  Perfect for a unique wedding and/or reception. * Cypress Meadows and Gardens, 333 Cypress Avenue, Moss Beach, 650-728-0728. Gorgeous setting and dramatic landscaping in the coastal hills close to the Pacific. *Pulgas Water Temple, Canada Road, Woodside, 650-652-3212.  Terminus of the San Francisco water system bringing fresh water to Crystal Springs reservoir from Yosemite.  Roman-style temple on lush grounds, ideal for outdoor weddings. *Crystal Springs Golf Club, 6650 Golf Course Drive, Burlingame, 650-342-6485.  Dramatic gazebo setting in Rolling Hills, next to Crystal Springs lakes. *Thomas Fogarty Winery, 19501 Skyline Blvd., Woodside 650.851.6777 or 800.313.4881 Beautiful views from patio and lawn overlooking extensive vineyards. Lighthouses: *Point Montara Lighthouse, 16th Street at Highway 1, Montara 650.728.7177 (Hostel). Just north of Half Moon Bay. *Pigeon Point Lighthouse, 210 Pigeon Point Road, Pescadero 650.879.2120 or 879.0633  Both, as you might guess, are extraordinarily dramatic settings at the very edge of the sea, though Montara is better equipped to handle weddings. 25 miles south of Half Moon Bay. Misc. Pillar Point Harbor, Princeton-by-the Sea, Harbormaster: 650.583.4400  A working harbor, with piers, hotels, and restaurants. Q: Do you perform weddings outside the Coastside/San Mateo area, for instance, Sacramento, Monterey, Castro Valley, San Francisco, San Jose, etc.? A: Generally, no, except in rare circumstances: Why leave paradise? I perform several weddings in this coastside area, leaving little time for travel. The additional cost to you of my travel time and distance would add a prohibitive amount to your already mounting costs. NOTE: TRY TO CHOOSE AN OFFIANT AT OR NEAR YOUR WEDDING SITE. Unless you strongly want a specific officiant, such as a relative or your own family minister to perform the ceremony, I believe that it is both risky and a mistake to book me as your wedding officiant if I live some distance from your wedding site. What happens if and when, for example, on the day of the wedding, a highway between you and me is blocked for whatever reason, and I cannot get through? You simply would not have a wedding. But an offciant who lives CLOSE to your wedding site and knows that area can easily reach you and arrive at the time agreed, which is why I am more than happy to help you in finding a wedding officiant at or near your wedding location.

Ritz-Carlton Hotel

HMB Golf Links

Mill Rose Inn

San Benito House

Hastings House Garden

Harbor House

Community United Methodist Church

Pulgas Water Temple

																Q. What kind of ceremonies do you perform? A. I am licensed to perform all weddings in the State of California. Civil:   (most common) Such as a judge or Justice of the Peace or Commissioner of Marriages would perform Religious: References to God, blessings of you and of rings, prayers. Interfaith or specific ritual. Spiritual: More poetic / romantic / creative (quickly growing in popularity). .....or any combination of the above. All tailor-made to your wishes. Q. How long is your AVERAGE wedding ceremony? A: Roughly 20 to 30 minutes, depending on what you would like to add. Remember these are PERSONALIZED weddings, so the actual length of the ceremony is entirely up to you. As an example, you might add a Unity Candle ceremony, or the Sand Ceremony; or one or more readings/talks by family or friends; you might choose music or singing during the ceremony or add ethnic traditions; or spoken translation of the ceremony, or poems, song lyrics, or other additions. Or, you may want a short, simple ceremony, without additions, both of which would obviously affect the length of the wedding Q. What do you try to do in your ceremonies? A: I try to provide you with a ceremony that is yours, to make you feel comfortable both before and during the wedding itself and let you enjoy your own wedding and each other. Whether your ceremony is small and intimate or large and formal, frenzied or sedate, you will be getting the finest wedding in this solar system. In short, I want you to have that ceremony that lets you best say to each other, "I want to be with you for the rest of my life. Because that's how much I love you" We need to determine your comfort level and ensure the most stress-free and enjoyable wedding possible. Q. What do you wear during your ceremonies? 1. Usually, a black suit, white shirt, and gray tie. And because it is your big day, I would even wear shoes! For outdoor weddings, I often wear a black beret, your choice (see photos). However, I can also wear the following: 2. Black suit with clerical collar 3. Black suit, clerical collar and stole, the decorated wide strip of woven white cloth worn around the neck and down the front (of me). 4. Black robe, much like a judge's or university professor's robe, with grey tie or clerical collar. 5. An alb (long white garment) with optional blue stole 6. Ethnic or historical clothing ( Hawaiian, Old English, Renaissance, etc.). 7. I can wear anything from formal black to jeans, or whatever you feel would fit best with your ceremony. Q. What about young children in the bridal party? A. Ring bearers, flower girls, etc. are always a delight in weddings. But, be careful. If a child is too young and would likely be overwhelmed by a crowd of people suddenly turning and looking at them when they process in, I do not think it's fair to them to force them to do something frightening. To make it less intimidating, they can walk up the aisle holding hands, or aim for Mommy or Grandma who is already seated somewhere obvious in the front rows and has a seat saved for them. One tiny boy in a miniature tuxedo, the ring bearer at a huge wedding, panicked and ran back down the aisle and out of the building. And he had the real rings! (As you may know, many couples put fake rings on the pillow, just in case, while the best man/maid of honor hold the real rings). Another very young, very frightened little boy began leaning his whole weight against me, finally grabbing a hold of my leg in a sort of death grip throughout the whole ceremony. I'm still trying to get the circulation back. In any case, I really do try to make children comfortable, both at the rehearsal and during the wedding itself. Q. What do you suggest about vows? A. Since this is the heart of your wedding ceremony, I recommend that your words say exactly what you want to say to each other. So, before choosing the words themselves, think about this: how brave are you? What kind of vows would you prefer? Following are some choices: a. I say everything and even give you the answer "I do" to repeat after me. For example, #1 on the sheet I will send you). b. You write your own individual vows (not necessarily the same for each other). As this can be intimidating (you might worry about not remembering what you wrote), I would take your vows and put them in my wedding book and turn the book toward you during the exchange of vows. In other words, you would have your very own "cheat sheet" (for example, #2 on the sheet) You might also print out your vows on rolled parchment paper (available at most stationery stores) and ceremoniously unroll them and recite them to each other. c. And then, the middle ground: you repeat after me in short phrases, such as the vows we are most familiar with: "I, John Jones; (repeat), take you, Suzie Q. Smith" (repeat), etc. (for example, #3 through #6). These may be traditional vows or you may take words from one vows and insert them in your own, or combine vows or, as above, stir up your creative juices and write your own. I will gladly help you with any and all of this. Q. What are your recommendations about rehearsals? A: I strongly recommend rehearsals both for your own peace of mind and to avoid unnecessary problems during the ceremony. However, if the bridal party is comparatively small, you may wish to have only a verbal walk through with me, at no charge. Or, if the members of the bridal party will not arrive in time for a separate rehearsal, (for example, flying into SFO the night before), you might choose a brief rehearsal just prior to the actual ceremony, again at no charge, since I am already there. If, however, the wedding party consists of two or more groomsmen, bridesmaids, attendants, flower girls, ring bearers, etc., I strongly recommend a formal rehearsal on a day or night separate from the ceremony. I believe this greatly adds to your own comfort level and to the least stressful enjoyment of your wedding. The more people in your wedding party, the more we need to have them all on the same page. Q. Can I add ceremonies of my own? A. Certainly. I have several suggestions, but, if you would like to add something that you have seen or read about elsewhere, we can certainly make it a part of your own ceremony.
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						Q. What about getting our license? A. This easy and fun minor ritual has today become an integral and memorable part of your wedding experience. I will send you my License Information Sheet (included in my wedding packet) which I update regularly with the San Mateo County Court Clerk. In counties OTHER than San Mateo County, look in the front of your local phonebook, in the GOVERNMENT pages (usually edged in blue) under COUNTY GOVERNMENT OFFICES, then MARRIAGE LICENSES or COUNTY CLERK for the number to call in your own county. They will provide you with all necessary information and requirements for that county . A complete list of other California counties'Court Clerks (for weddings) can be found here. There is no blood test. For now, here's what you need to know: a. You can obtain your license at any County Court Clerk/Recorder's Office in the State of California. b. You may then take that license to any county in the State where you plan to marry. c. Following the wedding, I am required by law to complete your license and return it for filing to the county where you originally got it. d. You must obtain your license within 90 days prior to the ceremony. Put another way, once you have your license, you must get married within the next 90 days. You may, in fact, get married on the very day you get your license. I would be happy to assist you with any questions regarding this. In many counties, you may go online to complete much of the required information. In San Mateo County, for example, you can go to www.smcare.org. and follow the simple directions found there, thus saving much time when you finally go to the County Clerk to obtain your license. Q. Where do I get my marriage license in San Mateo County? A. At 555 County Center, Redwood City, 1st floor 650.363.4712 Directions: going south on Hwy. 101 (Bayshore Hwy.), pass the Belmont and San Carlos off ramps and take the next off ramp for Redwood City / Whipple Avenue. At the signal, go straight ahead onto Veterans Blvd. (while Whipple Ave. turns right) and stay in the right lane for three long blocks to Middlefield Road. Turn right onto Middlefield Rd., and immediately right again into the driveway of the five story County employees parking structure. Park on the first floor only and exit to the rear. Turn left (follow the crowd) and the first building you will come to on your left  will be 555 County Center on your left in the plaza area. Upon entering the building, go in a straight line on the first floor all the way to the opposite end of the building, where wonderful people are waiting to help you at the Court Clerk's Marriage License desk. Again, remember- you can go online at www.smcare.org to fill in most of the required license information before you get there. We are getting our wedding license in Redwood City, San Mateo County. What fees are required?  And are these fees the same in all counties in the State? No, all counties do not charge exactly the same fees, though they are quite similar.  In San Mateo County, the current fees (payable to the Court Clerk) are as follows Marriage License:    $78.           Q. How can I reach Court Clerks' offices(for weddings) in other counties in California? A. Click here for contact phone numbers for each county in California.
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Q. How do I change my name following the wedding? A. A filed and certified copy of your license is considered legal proof of marriage as well as change of name, if such proof is ever required. To change your name on your Social Security records following the wedding, call Social Security at 1.800.772.1213, any business day between 7 AM and 7 PM. You will be required to fill out a Form SS-5 (Application for Social Security Card) and provide an original, certified copy of your marriage license, which the County Clerk will provide you, and one other form of identification to verify your old and new names. For complete online information and a copy of the form, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber/

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Q. Any books you can recommend? A. As you no doubt have already discovered, there are numerous wedding books, guides, and directories, many of which can be rather pricey. My suggestion? Go to your local library which has several shelves of wedding books, including readings, religious and non-religious ceremonies, guides to wedding sites, etc. Even if you do not want or need any of these, you will undoubtedly pick up a few ideas. Here are a few I would recommend (clicking on the titles below will link you to the Amazon website for further details on each book):

*Bride's Book Of Etiquette, by the editors of Bride Magazine.   Everything you have ever wanted to know about weddings. Well organized and very readable. Perigree Books. * For So Long As We Both Shall Live, by Thomas R. Fritts.   Specific suggestions for a variety of ceremonies. Avon Books * Weddings From The Heart, by Daphne Rose Kingma. Suggestions for warm, romantic weddings. Conari Press, Berkeley, CA *With These Words I Thee Wed, by Barbara Ekloff.   A large selection of contemporary vows. A little intimidating but a great source of creative vows. Adams Media Corp. *Anti-Bride Guide, by Carolyn Gerin and Stephanie Rosenbaum.  Current, practical and fun guide. Chronicle Books, San Francisco * Half Moon Bay Coastside Visitors Guide. Free. A regularly updated publication of the Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau. Free. Listings of Coastside services, www.halfmoonbaychamber.org * The Coastside Guide, the bi-annual publication of the Half Moon Bay Review (the Coastside's weekly newspaper). Lists all services available on the coastside.  Free. Call 650.726.4424. There are far too many excellent restaurants, sites and services on the Coastside for me to list here individually. However, this is an excellent resource guide for maps, restaurants, lodging, galleries, merchants, growers, events, entertainment, real estate, schools, sights to see, etc. Note: These last two are so essential that I will provide them to you immediately.

Q. I would like to get married on one of the Coastside beaches. Any problem? A. Good for you! The beaches on the Coastside are spectacular. No problems, but certain requirements. We must submit an application to the State Beaches District office to obtain a Small Wedding Permit (less than 50 guests / no reception on beach) costing, at present, $75. For beach weddings, we must contact The HMB District Office at 650.726-8819. You can download a copy of the Small Beach Application permit to print out, which you would then submit to the Half Moon Bay District office. Download the application here for the .xls (Microsoft Excel) version, or here for the pdf (Adobe Reader) document format. Note: State Beach regulations and fees are subject to change without notice. As of November, 2009, the following are in effect (but do call for updates): Small Weddings: (less than 50): contact:  The HMB State Beach Office:650.726-8819 Large Weddings (50 on up): contact: Events Co-ordinator The Santa Cruz District Office: 831.335.3455 Weddings are prohibited on all bluffs and dunes and on: Francis State Beach Venice SB Pebble Beach (near Bean Hollow SB) However, weddings are permissible on: Montara SB (limited parking) Mc Nee Ranch (limited parking) Roosevelt/Naples SB Dunes SB San Gregorio SB Pomponio SB Bean Hollow SB Note: Due to the sighting and/or nesting of Snowy Plovers (an endangered shore bird) anywhere on these beaches, barriers may be erected at any time to protect their habitat, thus preventing weddings in that particular area. Always check with the State Beach staff beforehand. Fees and regulations: Small Weddings: Less than 50 people: $75. * No alcohol * Minimal venue impact: no set -up (only walk-on, walk-off) * No decorations, chairs, or structures * No balloons, rice, birdseed, confetti, or plants going to seed * One hour or less * Ceremony and pictures only - no reception * Usual use fees charged for all vehicles entering the parks/beaches. Q. Any suggestions about beach weddings? A. While outdoor weddings are incredibly beautiful in such dramatic and natural surroundings, do take into account the following: Coastside weather can change quickly .  You may want to arrange an indoors backup site just in case, if the weather decides not to cooperate. Do consider the advantages of a back-up, inside (or protected) wedding site if the weather does change: no bees, no noise from planes, no traffic or sirens; no rain or wind to blow out candles or tear off veils or hats or blow over flower stands; controllable temperature, good sound and lighting, etc. In short, know your comfort level, plan accordingly, and be flexible! If your wedding is on the beach, we will check the local tide tables (which I have) and the times for sunrise and sunset for your best views and photos. Note: If you have your heart set on one particular spot on one of the beaches for your wedding, remember: the low tide mark you see while planning may be under water on the day of the wedding. Set your spot well above the high water mark and we'll both stay dry. You might not want to be too close to the waves, for another reason: the ocean can be loud and drown out the words or music of the ceremony.

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Snowy Plover Charadrius alexandrinus

WITNESSES: In California, only one witness is required to sign your license, though two is customary. Witnesses do not have to be part of the bridal party, but should be 18 years of age or older and present at the wedding. Therefore, your photographer, for example, could sign as your witness, perhaps in a small, intimate wedding.

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UNITY CANDLE CEREMONY: One candle representing Bride, one for Groom, together with the larger, more highly decorated Unity Candle, lit during the ceremony.  You buy the candles yourself, as keepsakes of your wedding, to light on each anniversary. If the wedding is out-of-doors, do provide hurricane-style glass globes around each of the candles. Available in stationary stores and Michael's stores. The same goes for the more recently popular Sand Ceremony, similar to the Unity Candle Ceremony, in which various colored sands are poured and mixed from small vases into the one large vase during the ceremony. VOWS: It would be wonderful if your audience could HEAR your vows. When saying or repeating your vows after me, try to project your voice a little, loudly enough for your friends and family to hear this most essential part of your ceremony. We will practice this ahead of time. PHOTOGRAPHERS, VIDEOGRAPHERS: Most officiants certainly do not mind photographs during the ceremony, as most wedding photographers are professionals, and know precisely what they are doing.  As for family or friends taking photographs, obviously they should not intrude themselves into the ceremony by dashing around and blocking the audience's view. No flashes in the officiant's face. If the officiant is to wear a remote mike (for video or to magnify sound to run through outside speakers), do test the system for loudness and lack of squawk.   If a relative or friend is in charge of playing your tapes or CDs during the ceremony, do go over the mechanics of the player and the timing of the music several times prior to the wedding itself. I know it sounds like it should be easy, but, under the stress of the day, mistakes can be devastating. As you know, your license must be signed by the witnesses immediately after the ceremony. Do ask your photographer to photograph this signing as part of your future memories. OFFICIANT/PARKING: Following the ceremony, I usually leave sometime before your guests. Let me know where to park so I will not get sealed in. If you wish to have my smiling face in any of your photos, we will ask that the photographer take these shots soon after the ceremony. MUSIC: Do let me know me ahead what music you have decided to have played, and when. I will arrive at your wedding site about 30 minutes before the ceremony, precisely to go over all cues with musicians, DJs, photographer, straggling members of the bridal party, etc., and to check with you on any last minute details. PROCESSION: If your procession in to the ceremony involves coming down stairs, do hold on to the railing or banister provided. If your dress is long or has some type of train, consider having someone hold your flowers for you at the bottom of the stairs (whoever will walk up the aisle with you) so you can hold onto the railing with one hand and hold onto your dress with the other. During your main procession in, remember to walk SLOWLY! This, I believe, is the secret to making your wedding smooth and seamless. We will practice this until everyone in the bridal party is in sync. WEDDING GIFTS/GUEST BOOK: Depending on local or other circumstances, you might consider asking someone to stand near a separate table set aside for weddings gifts that your guests may bring. Have some scotch tape handy, so that your gift taker can tape the right wedding card to the right present, for obvious reasons. That person might also request that each guest sign your wedding book. USHERS: If you have or want them. Along with whatever duties you want the usher(s) to perform (walking family members up the aisle, giving directions for seating, etc.), I believe the main role of an usher is to make guests feel welcome and comfortable They should: * Let people know where when to be seated; * Direct guests to the gift table and/or Guest Book; * Give directions to restrooms, water, etc. LIAISON (For Bride): It is a great idea to ask someone (who is not in the immediate bridal party) to stay with you with you in the room where you are getting ready just prior to the wedding. This person would act as your "go-fer" in case you need something from your car trunk, like hairspray, CDs, or the license! Or you may need to get a message to the groom or the DJ or me, or whomever. SEATING: Use common sense in seating. Traditionally, the bride's family is seated on the left and the groom's family on the right side of the aisle. However, for the rest of your guests, it is customary today to invite guests to be seated on either side of the aisle and thus fill in each side evenly. Obviously, be careful and diplomatic when assigning seats for family members who may be divorced and remarried or dating, especially if they bring their new partner.  Domestic violence really should not be a part of the ceremony. RINGS: It is also a great idea to bring the rings to the ceremony! If you have a ring bearer, attach the rings to the pillow with a pin or simple knot that even I can undo. If the rings are held by the best man or maid of honor, they can hold them on the little finger of one hand, not in the pocket with the hole! When exchanging rings, do not try to force the ring over the other's knuckle (this is not a blood sacrifice), but let each one make their own ring adjustment. OUTDOOR WEDDING SITE Chairs: When setting up chairs, leave plenty of room for an aisle. Allow for at least two and probably three people to walk up the aisle together (for example: the bride with her mother and father). On a golf course or grassy field or beaches, be careful of high heels, for obvious reasons. Tell your guests beforehand. Runners: Think twice about a runner (you simply may not need or want one) if it is likely that it could be blown or picked up by the wind, or not laid out in a straight line, particularly if laid out on grass or soft ground. Readings: To avoid stress on your readers (if you have them), I will announce their names just before they read so they need not worry about when to read. Be sure that your chosen reader CAN read, and can read slowly and clearly. We will practice this at the rehearsal.

					Q: What do you charge for your usual exceptionally beautiful weddings? A: A deposit is not required, though not refused(!), if you so desire. However, I do request that you submit payment within ten days prior to the ceremony. STANDARD PREMIUM WEDDING $450. (Download a doc.  file of the Larger Weddings  Sample Contract  HERE). Including all prior discussions, two in-house formal meetings, planning and assistance. On-site co-ordination with musicians, DJ, photographer, etc. Personalized ceremony: you decide (with my incredibly valuable assistance) each step of the ceremony what you do or do not want. I will provide you with several alternatives for each step of the ceremony, and incorporate your own ideas. Everything regarding your tailor-made ceremony is open for discussion. Verbal walk-through of ceremony (in place of separate, formal rehearsal) PLEASE NOTE: If necessary - for example, when members of the bridal party will not be arriving until the day of the wedding - the rehearsal can be scheduled just prior to the ceremony. WEDDING WITH SEPARATE  FORMAL REHEARSAL: additional $150. (For a total of $600.) Rehearsal with whole bridal party, on a day or evening prior to the wedding day. Unlimited walk-through of ceremony until all feel comfortable with cues and directions WEDDING, FORMAL REHEARSAL, AND SEPARATE CO-ORDINATOR MEETING: additional $100. In addition to the above, though rare, this usually involves a formal meeting with wedding planners & consultants, prior to and separate from both the rehearsal and the wedding. Q. Do you offer a "special value" for very small, simple weddings? We just want something short & sweet. A. Some are short, but all are sweet!  And, yes, I do offer a special price of $250.00 for more intimate, very small weddings.  BUT SOME RESTRICTIONS DO APPLY. Download a doc. file of the Small Weddings Sample Contract here. Size of wedding: Restricted to Bride and groom and one to three additional guests, one or two of whom could act as your witness(es), up to eight.. If it is just the two of you (Bride and Groom), we will need at least one witness, as required by law.  This could be your photographer, for example, or a stranger on the beach, anyone 18 yrs. of age or older, who will attend the whole ceremony and will sign your license. Rehearsal: No rehearsal, since none is needed. Ceremony: One set ceremony, my own favorite, simple and beautiful, which could still include some personal additions. Place of Wedding: Anywhere on the immediate Half Moon Bay Coastside, from Montara to the south end of the city of Half Moon Bay. Assuming that you are trying to cut costs as much as possible, you might want to have your wedding at one of the cost-free sites along the coast: a free beach, bluff top, home or garden - that you would choose (with my help, if you need it). Note: Keep in mind that the Calif. State Park system CHARGES FOR RESERVATION AND USE OF STATE BEACHES FOR WEDDINGS AND FOR PARKING OF EACH VEHICLE.  Please click on the "Beach Wedding" section to your left for further details. Q Do you require a deposit, and when do we pay you? A. A deposit is not required (though not refused), so you will not be charged if you change your plans. However, I do request that you submit payment within 10 days prior to the ceremony.
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Home Contact Me About Me Locations Ceremonies License Resources Beach Weddings Hints, Tips, & Advice Fee Schedule Print Out Pages Photos

(photos by Michael A Wong, of Spring Mountain Gallery)