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How Long Should We Date Before the Wedding?

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...

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A How to Guide to Writing Your Wedding Vows

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...

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What Happens When The Details Don’t Go As Planned?

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...

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101 Things You Need to Know About Weddings

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...

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Should I Hire a Wedding Coordinator?

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,...

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About Dean

Dean Merrill brings 26 years of experience as a wedding officiant in Southern California. His creative and professional approach to performing weddings comes from a unique blending of talents he utilizes in every ceremony in which he officiates. He is currently the preferred wedding officiant for Southern California’s #1 rated wedding coordinator, Bella Vita Events.

(805) 300-4955