Frequently Asked Questions

What locations do you serve?

Tampa, St. Petersburg, Bradenton, Anna Maria Island, Sarasota, Longboat Key, Lido Beach, Siesta Key, Venice Beach, and Englewood. I now also provide services in Boca Grande, Ft. Myers, Sanibel Island, and Naples.

How long does the ceremony take?

The actual wedding ceremony lasts about 15-20 minutes depending on how much the couple customize it by adding special vows, readings, poems, etc., and how simple or elaborate the processional and recessional is. Overall I spend no more than 1 hour with each couple from beginning to end, including the bigger packages.

What about Sunset Wedding requests?

The sunset is a very quick spectacle, only lasting about 5 -10 minutes, and once the sun sets, it gets dark very quickly and limits photography. The only way to have your ceremony right at sunset is one that doesn't include arches and/or after-ceremony photographs. Weddings are usually scheduled about one to one and a half hours before sunset. Even if you schedule a sunset ceremony, if there are clouds in the sky, you may not be able to see the sunset at all! Because of this, you should not give the "sunset time" too much importance when making a decision in terms of your ceremony time. A late afternoon or early evening ceremony about 1 hour before sunset should still give you a beautiful setting and colors for your wedding photos.

Will there be other people on the beach or do you have a secluded area or private beach for our wedding?

All beaches in the State of Florida are public beaches and I cannot reserve or separate any part of the beach. If the idea of strangers being around your wedding location makes your feel uncomfortable, then perhaps an outdoor or beach ceremony is not for you. There are certain times of the year when the beaches have more people than others and even during the warmer seasons, most people start leaving the beach a couple of hours before sunset. Also, if you choose a morning wedding, you will probably not encounter that many people around either.

What happens if it rains?

It is the couple's responsibility to arrange a back-up plan in case of inclement weather. You are contracting my services to go the beach and perform your wedding ceremony. No refunds will be given due to inclement weather; however, you will have the option of a one-time rescheduling of your ceremony. Inclement weather includes, but is not limited to rain, the threat of lightening, anticipated thunderstorms or dangerous weather condition. If you are planning a reception your ceremony can be moved to that location or I can postpone your ceremony until the next available day, subject to availability.

What happens if you get sick?

In the unlikely event that I am unable to perform the ceremony for whatever reason, I will make every effort to find a qualified substitute replacement. In the unlikely event that a replacement cannot be found, Weddings by Christina will make a full refund of any deposit paid by the Couple.

Is there a limit to the number of guests I can have?

Many beach locations require a costly event permit for gatherings of 50 people or more. I recommend that you contact the location and City Hall for more information.

Can I bring my own music CD?

You are welcome to bring special music to be played during the ceremony. This request must be coordinated with whoever is providing the sound system.

Do you provide a sound system?

Yes, I provide a sound system. This system accommodates groups up to 150 people very easily.

Do we have to memorize our vows?

No you can write your own vows but come wedding day, I 'feed them to you one word at a time'.

Does the Officiate stay for the reception/dinner?

While etiquette dictates that an Officiate should be an invited guest to your reception, I personally disagree. If, your Officiate is a family priest, or, a personal friend, that is a different story. You do not know me, nor do I know your guests, which would put all of us in an uncomfortable situation. Therefore, I disagree with proper etiquette in this case. I know only too well what the cost of weddings are, and I would not want you to spend money on a person that you do not know. I love officiating for all weddings, but I also do not want to see a couple who is struggling to pay for a wedding ceremony feel as if they need to invite me as a guest to their wedding reception. This is simply not necessary.

What time does the Officiate arrive on our "Big Day"?

I arrive 15-30 minutes or so before the ceremony. In every case you should give your Officiate an on site phone number.

Is a gratuity expected?

I am often asked the question if I should be tipped for my services. My answer to them is "that is up to you". There is no correct answer. This is basically based upon what you believe your Officiate is worth, as well as, what you believe, is the right thing to do. However, keeping in mind that your Officiate is the person who is providing you with a service for the most important part of your wedding day -- your wedding vows -- tips / gratuities are always appreciated. This lets your Officiate know what you thought about their services, only because your Officiate's fee which is minor and very small compared to what you are paying to your other wedding vendors.

Is a Rehearsal necessary?

Tradition, moms, and bridal books say have one. I say talk it over with me, your Officiate. You should always walk through the ceremony with your wedding party. You may or may not need your Officiate present. (Much depends on place and size of wedding). There is an additional fee for a rehearsal and the cost depends on how much time is involved for the Officiate. I do offer a Guide to Conducting Your Own Rehearsal, which is available for a small fee.

Can I customize my ceremony to include my children/parents, etc.?

If your package includes a customized ceremony, absolutely! After you have made your reservation request and paid your deposit, I will be delighted to work with you to customize your ceremony to fit your wishes.

Can I have a double ceremony for the same price?

I would be more than happy to offer a friend or relative a discounted rate to perform their wedding ceremony right after yours.

Do we meet prior to the wedding?

Probably not. Most couple choose this type of wedding arrangement to keep things simple, which is reflected in my prices. All arrangements and agreements are made via the Internet, U.S. Mail and telephone. We will not meet until the scheduled wedding date and time at the assigned wedding location. If you wish to meet me, you are welcome to schedule an appointment with me in Ruskin, at a time and place that is convenient to my schedule.

Is there any additional charge for getting married during a Holiday?

There is an additional charge of $100.00 for weddings performed during certain holidays; i.e. Thanksgiving, Dec. 24th, Dec. 25th, Jan. 1st etc.

Can I make changes to the packages listed?

Packages are sold as listed on this website, and there are no substitutions or discounts if you wish to not have or use a specific service or item. Packages are designed to include the same basis elements, and then additional elements are available to be able to offer a little bit of everything.

Can you send me a brochure via regular mail?

It is my goal to provide affordable prices while maintaining the highest standards of personal service so, my "brochure" is my website. A printed representation could not compare to the amount of information, photos and descriptions on my website. Once your reservation has been made and deposit received, I will send you sample ceremonies and vows via U.S. Mail or E-mail.

How soon in advance should I reserve my date?

I strongly suggest you reserve as soon as you have decided on a date to ensure my availability. If you need to change your date after submitting your reservation, you may reschedule your wedding date once within 9 months from the original date and any amounts already paid will be fully applied. New wedding date is subject to my availability.

I am ready to reserve my date. What's the next step?

Just go to my contact page and email me to find out my availability. Once that has been established, I will mail you a contract for you to sign and return with your payment/deposit - it's that simple! You may also contact me by phone, 813-746-1312 or 941-447-1777 (cell) if you have any specific questions or concerns.