About
Illuminating Ceremonies is my company name: I am a professional wedding officiant based in New York City. I'd like to be the most accessible vendor for you to work with. For every wedding I'm lucky enough to officiate, I create more personal, enjoyable, funny, meaningful, and celebratory ceremonies than most guests have ever seen.
I'm a Certified Life-Cycle Celebrant. I can legalize marriages all around the country. I'm the author of Best. Ceremony. Ever (The Countryman Press/WW Norton). I'm a member of the NY chapter of the National Speakers Association. I have spoken at industry conferences, including Wedding MBA in Las Vegas, WedProCon in Cincinnati, and Midwest DJs Live in Milwaukee.
For four years in a row, I appeared on 'The Rachael Ray Show' on Valentine's Day, officiating ceremonies in front of a massive national audience. In April 2014, I appeared on Joan Rivers' reality show, Joan Knows Best, attending a memorial service for her dog Max. Not many people can say that and have it be true.
Please note: if you reach out to me (and I am asking this on behalf of ALL wedding vendors), PLEASE let me know where and at what time your wedding will take place; thank you!!!
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Frequently asked questions
What is the typical price for your wedding services?
What is the starting price for your wedding services?
Does starting price include the ceremony rehearsal?
What is the starting price for ceremony rehearsals?
What is the starting price for pre-marital counseling (per session)?
What types of weddings and events do you provide services for?
What services do you provide?
What religious affiliations do you serve?
On average, how long are wedding ceremonies you officiate?
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Reviews of Illuminating Ceremonies/Christopher Shelley
Review summary
Reviewer after reviewer had their wedding ceremonies transformed by officiant Chris Shelly, describing his services as exceptional, delightful, and highly recommended. Couples praised Chris for his personalized, engaging, and non-religious ceremonies that captured the essence of their relationships. His ability to craft touching, humorous, and perfectly tailored ceremonies left guests impressed, with many recalling his warmth and charisma long after the event. With an emphasis on storytelling and a seamless planning process, Chris's ceremonies were hailed as unforgettable, making him a standout choice for couples seeking a unique and meaningful wedding experience.
Professional Network & Endorsements
Christopher is an excellent officiant! He brings his charming, joyful personality to his work and it's evident he gives 100% to every client. There is no such thing as a boring or dry wedding when Christopher is the Officiant!
Christopher is a suburb choice as an officiant for your wedding. I guarantee that you will have a unique and fun wedding ceremony with his creative and lively touch.
Christopher really is illuminating! He is by far the funniest person I know and there won't be a face in the crowd without a smile on their face when Chris performs a ceremony. He is charming, polite and the best listener I know. He will deliver a ceremony that would surely put a smile on even "Aunty Betty that disapproves of this union" face.... Highly recommend.