Joseph H

I was asked by my brother to officiate his wedding as they didn't have any need for a denominational religious ceremony. As such, I became ordained with ULC.

I'm from Southeastern PA in the Philadelphia area. I've lived here for most of my life, although I did live slightly south in Delaware for a short stint in my childhood.

I think what makes a wedding ceremony special as an officiant is the personal connection and the ability to craft a meaningful experience that reflects the couple's unique journey together. I don't follow any one religious tradition, so I often take a more inclusive approach, focusing on the love, commitment, and bond between the partners, regardless of belief systems.

What’s important to me is to listen to the couple’s story, their values, and what kind of energy they want their ceremony to carry. Some couples want something deeply spiritual and heartfelt, while others might prefer something light-hearted and funny. Either way, the key is creating a ceremony that resonates with them and feels authentic to their relationship.

I love helping couples blend their backgrounds, beliefs, and traditions into something that feels like their ceremony. It’s all about making it as meaningful, personal, and intentional as possible. Would you want your ceremony to reflect a certain energy or tradition?

As an ordained minister in the Universal Life Church, the services I provide are all about creating meaningful, inclusive, and personalized ceremonies for couples. The focus is on love and commitment, regardless of background or belief system. I offer non-religious wedding services that honor the couple's wishes, and I’m open to making the ceremony as formal or relaxed as the couple prefers.

Here are some key points I like to highlight:

Personalized Ceremonies: I take time to get to know the couple, their story, and their values. From there, I craft a ceremony that reflects their personalities and relationship.

Inclusive & Open-Minded: I’m a firm believer in inclusivity. My services are open to all couples, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or faith. Every ceremony is about celebrating the love that binds two people together.

Flexibility: Whether it’s a small, intimate gathering or a large celebration, I can adapt the ceremony to the couple’s needs. I can also incorporate traditions, rituals, or symbolic acts (like a handfasting or a unity candle) if desired.

Non-Religious Approach: For couples who are not religious but still want a meaningful ceremony, I focus on the commitment they’re making to each other, with an emphasis on love, partnership, and mutual respect.

Support with Legalities: I can assist with the legal aspects of the ceremony, ensuring everything is filed properly and the couple is legally married in their state.

I see my role as not just officiating the ceremony, but also helping create an atmosphere where the couple feels supported and celebrated. For me, it’s about facilitating a ceremony that feels authentic to them.