Wisdom from 1000 Weddings: An Interview with Wedding Officiant, Dean Merrill – Part 1
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...4 Mistakes Wedding Guest Make and What to Do When it Happens
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...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...Making a Good Choice: Marrying the Right Person Makes All the Difference in the World
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...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...
About Dean
Dean Merrill brings 22 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.