FAQs
Question
Didn't you already get married?
Answer
Yes! We were concerned about some things going on politically regarding the standing of Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court case that federally protects same-sex marriage. We went to the courthouse and got legally married on November 12th, 2025. This wedding will be a vow renewal, and the ceremony will be the spiritual expression of our bond. We also want to celebrate with all the people we love!
Question
What happens at a Pagan Wedding?
Answer
Don't worry! Most of the ceremony will be familiar to anyone who has attended a wedding. The major differences are found in the reading given by our officiant, the vows, and the handfasting ceremony. The recitations will be pulled from the writings of ancient Greek and Roman scholars, recounting stories from mythology. The vows have been selected from traditional Celtic, Viking, and Wiccan wedding vows. A handfasting ceremony involves a decorative chord being draped and tied around the hands of the betrothed, at once literally and symbolically binding them to one another. This tradition has been practiced by cultures around the world for millennia and is the origin of the term "Tying the knot." The names of old gods may be called upon to bestow blessings on the union. These gods may include Aphrodite, the goddess of love and fertility; Eros, the god of desire and romantic love between two men; and Hecate, the witch-mother and goddess of the moon, transitions, and transformation. Incense, holy water, and anointing oil may also be used in the ceremony. These things are used to purify the air, center the mind, and cleanse the body in preparation for the ritual. Similar materials are used in practice by pagans as well as Catholics and Muslims. If you are sensitive to the smell of incense (or just don't like it), we recommend you sit near the back of the ceremony. We will not ask you to participate in any rituals. All ceremonies and rituals will be performed solely by the officiant, grooms, and wedding party. We will only ask you to send blessings or positive energy towards the betrothed, and these blessings can come from whichever god or power you believe in.
Question
What if I don't want to attend the ceremony?
Answer
If your own religious or personal beliefs conflict with attending our ceremony, not to worry! We completely understand. We encourage you to attend the reception so we can spend the evening with everyone we love. We ask that you communicate this with us when you RSVP. If you still have questions regarding the ceremony, please reach out to Gabe.
Question
What should I wear?
Answer
Our wedding has a Greek mythology/high fantasy theme. The major points of inspiration for our theme come from Dungeons & Dragons, Lord of the Rings, and ancient myths of Pan, the dryads, and heroes such as Achilles and Jason. If you choose, you may dress with these inspirations in mind, but it isn't required. If you will not be dressing in theme, we ask that you dress in formal wear. Two- and three-piece suits, dresses, pantsuits, formal footwear, and tasteful sweaters and overcoats are all acceptable options. We also encourage you to wear dark jewel tones or fall appropriate colors. The ceremony will take place outside, and the venue features an outdoor patio, so dress appropriately for the weather.
Question
Can I bring my whole family?
Answer
Due to capacity restrictions imposed by the venue, only those whose names appear on your invitation are invited to attend the wedding and reception. If you were given a plus-one, this will be reflected on your invitation. Take the opportunity to have a fun night without the kids!
Question
I don't drink alcohol. What are my options?
Answer
There will be a separate alcohol-free mocktail bar at the reception. The bartender will have NO alcohol behind their bar, so you won't have to worry about any mix-ups. And you won't have to sip soda the whole night- our signature mocktails feature Seedlip alcohol-free spirits, so you can enjoy a fancy drink without breaking your abstinence! We will also have 0% beers if that's more your speed.
