More about Wedding by Design
Your Ceremony — Your Way
Answers to Your Questions
Listed below are the most frequently asked wedding questions. You are welcome to contact me.
Who is Reverend Leslie Sann?
I am an ordained minister, inclusive of all denominations and conduct spiritual or non-religious ceremonies. I have been ordained since 1987. I am honored to perform marriage, commitment, and recommitment ceremonies. I work to serve your desired expression and creative intent.
How long does the ceremony take?
I suggest planning on thirty minutes. This includes the entrance, the ceremony, recessional, etc.
Do we have to memorize our vows?
No. You can write your own vows but come wedding day, I can ‘feed them to you one word at a time’.
Can we write our own vows and have friends read, sing, etc.?
YES! The wedding is designed for you and with you. I give you resources so that you can collaborate with me in writing the exact ceremony that speaks your hearts.
Can our children take part in the ceremony?
YES! It’s a great idea to include your children. Ask me for a list of ideas to do just that!
Can photos be taken?
Whatever you want, it’s your wedding.
Is a rehearsal necessary?
Tradition, moms, and bridal books say have one. It is a good idea to walk through the ceremony with your wedding party. These days the wedding coordinator at the site is the one who manages the ceremony proceedings. It is rare I am asked to attend a rehearsal. There is an additional fee for a rehearsal and the cost depends on how much time is involved.
What do you wear to the ceremony?
Appropriate attire that matches the occasion. If it’s black tie, I dress up.
Does the officiant stay for dinner etc?
I usually do not. I often have other plans and leave once the license is signed.
What time do you arrive on our wedding day?
I arrive a minimum of 15 minutes before the ceremony. I will find both of you so you know I am there.
Is a gratuity expected?
No. Some couples are moved to do so. Some couples send a thank you card with a picture. Referring a friend is a service to me. Some couples do all or none of the above. It’s up to you. I do appreciate receiving photos. I love seeing my couples again and remembering the ceremony we shared.
Do we get to meet you?
Yes. I would like that. When we meet I can get a sense about you as a couple so I can personalize the ceremony. With video conferencing it is very easy to meet if you are not located near me
How do we book you to conduct our wedding ceremony?
Contact me either via e-mail or by phone. We will set up a time to meet. leslie@lesliesann.com or 312.409.0686.
How long before the wedding should we book a wedding officiant?
I suggest you book as soon as you have your reception venue reserved. Please call and check my availability. Availability and fee depend on time of ceremony, place, date and how much travel is involved.
Where and when do I get my license?
For information on obtaining a license visit: Marriage License Information for the 8 counties in the greater Chicago area: Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Will, and DeKalb.
It was wonderful to work with Leslie throughout our wedding ceremony planning process. Her warmth and positive energy were an asset that we greatly benefited from! She was extremely responsive with her editing and feedback on any questions or ideas we had for our ceremony. The day of our wedding she kept us calm and was very personable while being professional. Thank you, Leslie! We greatly valued her contribution to making our wedding special to us and our guests!
The ceremony was perfect and touched us deeply. We will always remember the ceremony as something truly beautiful and special…both Giulia and I are thrilled we had the privilege of having you officiate! Thanks again.
Thank you again for all of your help. We have been continually impressed by how attentive and responsive you are. We have loved seeing the ceremony come together and are so happy with the results.
Thank you so much for being a very important part of our special day. It was a pleasure working with you. I greatly appreciate how kind and flexible you were. We were bery happy with how intimate the cermemony was. It was perfect.
