Bride Days recently sat down with wedding officiant Dean Merrill and we asked him to share his experience and practical advice that comes from his 26 years of officiating weddings. What made you decide to become a wedding officiant? I think it was around 1996 and I...

Over the past 26 years, I’ve seen just about everything when it comes to guests not having a clear understanding of the etiquette of being an invited guest. If you are getting married at a wedding venue, it might be costing you $100 per head for every guest who...

Over 50% of the couples I marry have been together over 5 YEARS! Texting and video chat have allowed couples to stay together even when they are far apart. This is good news! I have observed that building a relationship with the foundation of a time-tested friendship...

About 10 years ago I wrote a book entitled, "The Ultimate Guide to Finding a Great Mate." It was filled with practical advice on making a good choice in a partner. I do not believe in the whole notion of a "Soul Mate" - that there is one person in the entire world who...

In recent years, I have encouraged couples to write their own vows. Anytime there are words written about you or there are words spoken by you and your partner during your ceremony, those are the moments when your guests are totally locked in and engaged.  If you are...

So you’re planning a wedding! Excitement is in the air;  a once in a lifetime celebration where your friends and family will celebrate like never before! Let the planning begin - the countdown is on! When it comes to a wedding, it seems as if there are thousand of...

Hey! It’s Dean! I really appreciate you coming to my blog posts. I have had the pleasure of performing weddings since 1996. Over the years I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting and marrying couples from every walk of life. I have been present at simple weddings that cost...

If you are planning a wedding at a venue that does not provide a wedding coordinator, one of the most important issues to consider (Besides hiring a professional wedding officiant) is whether you bring aboard a personable, experienced, organizationally sound,...

You CAN Have an Incredible Wedding Ceremony! If a survey was taken asking the question, “What are the words that come to mind when you think of a wedding ceremony?” Chances are the responses would not be positive. A majority of couples these days have preconceived...