Woody
Ordained Minister in Lithonia, Georgia
Why did you originally become an ordained minister online?
Honestly, becoming an ordained minister online started as something simple, but it grew into something deeply meaningful for me. As a wedding photographer, I’ve been blessed to witness so many beautiful moments—tears of joy, laughter, promises whispered between two souls who’ve found their forever. Over time, I realized that love isn’t just something I capture through my lens—it’s something I genuinely feel called to celebrate and help others step into.
So, becoming ordained was just another way to be a part of those stories on a deeper level. Whether I’m behind the camera or standing before a couple as they say “I do,” it’s still about the same thing—honoring love, commitment, and those once-in-a-lifetime moments that remind us all what we’re here for.
To me, it’s not just about taking pictures; it’s about preserving emotion and being present for love in all its forms. Being able to both capture and officiate those sacred moments is one of the greatest honors I could ever experience.
Where are you from?
I’m originally from Miami, but I’ve called Metro Atlanta home since 2000. Miami gave me my foundation—vibrant culture, rhythm, and energy—and Atlanta gave me purpose, family, and a space to grow creatively. Down in Miami, love was loud and expressive; in Atlanta, it’s soulful and intentional. I think that balance shows up in the way I approach weddings and photography in general. Every time I capture or officiate a ceremony, I’m reminded of how love looks different everywhere but feels the same at its core.
That’s what keeps me inspired—the ability to blend my Miami roots with my Atlanta spirit and create something genuine every time I’m behind the camera or standing beside a couple saying “I do.”
What do you hope to achieve with your online ordination?
What I truly hope to achieve with my online ordination is to deepen my connection to the love stories I already have the honor of capturing. Being a wedding photographer allows me to freeze emotions in time, but being ordained lets me help create those moments in real life.
My goal isn’t to just stand behind the camera — it’s to stand alongside couples as they begin one of the most meaningful chapters of their lives. I want to offer an experience where everything—from the vows to the visuals—feels intentional, heartfelt, and personal.
For me, it’s about serving love in all its forms. Whether I’m capturing a kiss through my lens or guiding two souls as they say “I do,” I want every couple to feel that same sense of care, authenticity, and joy. This isn’t just about photos or titles—it’s about purpose, presence, and helping people celebrate love in a way they’ll never forget.
Religious Affiliations
None
Additional Information
N/A
What do you think makes your ceremonies special as a Lithonia, GA wedding officiant?
What makes my ceremonies special is that they’re deeply personal and crafted with the same heart and intentionality I bring to my photography. I don’t believe in cookie-cutter vows or one-size-fits-all moments—every couple’s story is unique, and their ceremony should reflect that.
Because I’ve spent years behind the lens capturing emotion, I’ve learned how to feel the rhythm of love—the laughter, the nerves, the tears, the quiet glances that say everything words can’t. As an officiant, I bring that same sensitivity to every ceremony, making sure the moment feels authentic and meaningful for both the couple and everyone witnessing it.
My goal is to create an atmosphere where love feels alive, not just spoken about. Whether it’s a grand ballroom or a backyard gathering, I want couples to look back and remember that their ceremony wasn’t just beautiful—it was theirs.
Are there particular areas near you where you prefer to travel or have special experience?
I’m based in Lithonia, Georgia, just outside of Atlanta — right in the heart of where southern charm meets modern love stories. Over the years, I’ve been blessed to work with couples all throughout the state, from the busy energy of downtown Atlanta to the peaceful mountain views of North Georgia and the scenic coastal spots down south. I’m always open to traveling within reason because every location tells its own story. Whether it’s a rustic barn in Monroe, a luxury venue in Buckhead, a lakeside ceremony at Lake Lanier, or a hidden gem in Savannah, I love the chance to capture and celebrate love in all settings.
Being local to Metro Atlanta gives me plenty of experience with popular venues and tight timelines, but my favorite part of traveling around Georgia is seeing how each couple brings their own style and personality to their day. No matter where it is, my goal is to make every ceremony and every photo feel just as special as the love being shared.
Types of Service Offered
Marriages, Same-Sex Marriages, Renewal of Vows
Additional Information
Absolutely. What I want people to know is that my work as a minister goes hand-in-hand with my passion for capturing love. I don’t just show up to perform a ceremony—I show up to be a part of one of the most sacred, emotional, and joyful days of someone’s life. Every couple’s journey is different, and I take pride in honoring that. Whether you’re looking for a traditional ceremony, something faith-based, or a modern celebration filled with laughter and personality, I approach each one with care, respect, and genuine love for what it represents.
For me, it’s not about titles—it’s about connection. My goal is to create an experience that’s warm, meaningful, and memorable, while also ensuring it flows beautifully into the moments I capture behind the camera.
At the end of the day, I don’t just help couples say “I do.” I help them feel it—and make sure that feeling lives forever through my words and my lens.