About Irene

A Little History

I became certified as a Life Cycle Celebrant after training with the renowned Celebrant Foundation and Institute. The program allowed me to clarify my own spiritual beliefs while exploring creative writing, ritual and ceremonial customs of diverse cultures. Since graduation and with years of experience, I’ve developed a ceremony style as a storyteller, adding poetry, prose and ritual to all my events.

Prior to my Celebrant training I was a wedding photographer, covering all the aspects of the wedding day. I always felt uplifted by the real purpose of the event: an honoring of the shared love of each couple. When I began considering career transitions and read about Marriage Commissioners at San Francisco City Hall, I scheduled a training with their staff. Even though we could preform six short ceremonies per hour, I loved each one. What a perfect way to bring my wedding familiarity and knowledge into a different creative expression. I participated at City Hall for seven years, before advancing my studies with the Celebrant Foundation.

How I Work

When I founded Ceremonies and Celebrations I embraced the gift of getting to know my clients over a longer time frame through a questionnaire, personal meetings, calls, video chats and emails. Their love stories excite me, provide the essence of the ceremony and reward each couple, their families and community with warmth, sincerity and humor.

Experience and Credentials

I’m legally certified as a minister to perform wedding ceremonies in California and work in a relaxed, yet professional manner. My credentials include a Master’s Degree from San Francisco State University, experience as a classroom teacher, photojournalist, proud parent and a volunteer in my community. It’s remarkable to be at this stage in my life where my career and personal paths have intersected and led me to this fulfilling role. I love the work I do and am grateful to all the wonderful people I meet on this journey!

Fees

My fee varies depending on the type of ceremony you choose and the preparation and travel involved.

The range for Elopements through Full Service out-of-town ceremonies is $400-1200.

For weddings, please email me with a few details-date, location, time, number of guests, bridesmaids/groomsmen, children participating and any ceremony preferences. Once I have a sense of your particulars, I’m happy to prepare a fee quote including travel. I always encourage a complimentary phone consult for clarity.