The Sand Ceremony
Santa Barbara is known for its clean, beautiful beaches and majestic coastline. If you are planning a beach wedding, this is a simple yet elegant way to bring the elements of the sand, sea and sky into your sacred day. Just as the grains of sand can never be separated, it is hoped that your lives together would be longer than the time it would take to separate the individual grains of sand.

The White Dove Release
White doves have been a beautiful symbol for thousands of years. Beginning with the Egyptians they were seen as peace and quiet innocence. The Chinese believed them to be a symbol of long life. They represented love and devotion to the early Greeks and Romans and were the sacred animal of Aphrodite and Venus, the goddesses of love. The symbolism was continued in the Bible as a representation of the holy spirit and of love, peace and hope. White dove releases are symbolic of faith and fidelity and for weddings represent blessings for new beginnings. At a funeral or memorial they create a soothing moment of silence and are symbolic of eternal peace and the spiritual flight home for those who have lost a loved one.

The Butterfly Release
A butterfly release is a unique experience adding an extraordinary touch to any occasion. It is a new tradition that is fun and beautiful, while enhancing the environment. A butterfly release is an alternative to throwing rice, birdseed or confetti. Butterflies symbolize the spirit of freedom and happiness and are cultural symbols of hope, rebirth, transformation and transcendence. They are cherished for their beauty and renewal to celebrate the changes in life. According to Native American legends, if you have a secret wish, capture a butterfly and whisper your wish to it. Since butterflies cannot speak, your secret is safe in their keeping. Release the butterfly, and it will carry your wish to the Great Spirit, who alone knows the thoughts of butterflies. If you set the butterfly free, you are helping to restore the balance of nature, and your wish will come true.

The Gift Statement
A gift statement is an acknowledgment of the unique contribution we are to life and to each other. It is a formulation of words expressing the essence of our true selves. Rev. Susan is a trained gift ritual facilitator, writing gift statements for over 10 years. This is a perfect gift for the newly wed and a beautiful tribute to their ceremony. Rev. Susan meets with the couple as they answer simple questions, then transcribes them into a gift statement, printed on parchment paper and custom framed. The statements read at the ceremony, are later placed in the home as a reminder of their special day and the expression of love, peace and light that shines within them.