Hello! My name is Karen and I am a non-denominational Ordained Minister ordained online through Christian Harvest Church. I will not make you attend any churches or any pre-marriage counseling before I will perform your ceremony. I would love to be a part of your special day, even on a last minute basis (if you decide to elope or if your minister backs out) if I am available! I live in Mountain Home, ID. I work in Twin Falls, Mountain Home, Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell and the surrounding areas. I prefer not to drive more than 90 minutes away, however I might be able to work something out with you.
What do I do?
1. Weddings - You must get your license. I will do your ceremony how you want it done. Do you want me to just say "I now pronounce you man and wife" (or wife and wife or husband and husband) - fine! That is all that is required by law besides me filling out and mailing in your certificate, so whatever I do or say before that is up to you! Do you want prayers and scriptures? OK and if not, that is OK too! This is your special day not mine. I'm just happy to be a part of it. I do have a wedding packet that I use to help you build the ceremony you desire - or you can bring something you have fallen in love with and I will use it. I can do sand, candle or knot tying ceremonies as well. I have several different options available for these.
2. Renewal of Marriage Ceremony (or renewal of vows). Were you married by a JP and want to have a nice ceremony now? Do you want to recommit? Great! It is a wonderful way to refresh and rejuvenate your marriage. I will do everything I do for a legal ceremony (minus the legal paperwork).
3. Affirmation of Love Ceremony (COMMITMENT CEREMONY). This is not a legal ceremony, however it is one that is recognized by you, your partner, and your God. I recognize that people have different needs. There are many reasons why two people may be unable to marry legally; sometimes for financial or social reasons beyond your control. This is a way for a couple to commit to each other and to bond together in a way only those in love can do, to share their dreams and cares and journey through life together as partners in life. I will do everything I do for a legal ceremony (minus the legal paperwork).
Most commonly asked questions
Why did I get ordained and how do I know if my ordination is legal if I did it online?
My son was getting married and we weren't sure if we were going to have someone available to perform the wedding. Just in case I went online and got ordained. If you are wondering if my ordination is legal in Idaho - so was I...I went into the Vital Statistics office to find out exactly what is required to legally perform a wedding. Because my ordination allows me to do weddings, funerals, and baptisms it is legal in the state of Idaho. FYI, it is also legal in Oregon.
How many weddings have you performed?
I have performed well over 400 weddings in the years I've been doing this.
How much do I charge?
I work on a base fee then donations after that. Like the courthouse, I only accept cash payments (and recently, Venmo). If you require a receipt please let me know in advance. My fees START at $75 for a basic signing. If I am meeting with you more than one time figure a minimum of $75 each time we meet. After that I work on donations, beyond my base fee, I tell my couples to pay me what they can HONESTLY afford. Payment for the first visit is expected same day we meet, the remaining balance is due on the day of the wedding.
What do you wear for the wedding?
I usually wear dress suits. I try to look my most professional at the actual wedding, unless you tell me otherwise or you call me very last minute. I don't usually dress up for the rehearsal or when I meet with you to discuss your ceremony.
What do you do at the rehearsal?
This depends on if you have a wedding planner or not. If you do not have a wedding planner I will help you organize who goes where and when. Do you want the groom to start out with me or walk his mom and the bride's mom down the isle first? Do you want the groomsmen to stand down with the groom or walk the bridesmaids down? Etc...
How do I feel about pictures being taken at the wedding?
First, I feel like the photographer is one of the most important people at your wedding. When you are old and have lost all your memories, your pictures will be all that you have. I tell the photographers to stand wherever they can to get the best pictures! I don't even care if they are standing behind me with a lens on my shoulder.
Do you mind wearing or holding a microphone?
Not at all. Mike me up! I do tend to have a voice that carries. I'm a stage actress, therefore my voice carries! However, I also understand that a mike can and will help.
Do you offer any other services?
Yes! Aside from being a wedding officiant, I'm also a professional Mrs. Claus. I've been a Claus longer than I've been an officiant, starting out on the Thunder Mountain Railroad. I'm currently associated with the Idaho Real Bearded Santas. Feel free to check out my Mrs. Claus blog HERE.
Call, text, or email me today to schedule your special day with me! I still have Several dates available.
Karen Christensen
Ordained Minister/Wedding Officiant
208-371-8198
