Valhalla Viking

Statement of Ministry

I became ordained as a minister to serve others in one of life’s most meaningful moments — the joining of two souls in commitment, honor, and sacred promise.

Marriage is not just a legal contract; it is a vow of loyalty, respect, courage, and devotion. I felt called to stand as a witness and guide in that moment — to ensure the ceremony reflects the true identity, beliefs, and spirit of the couple.

My ministry is rooted in honoring tradition, personal freedom, and authentic expression. I specialize in:

Traditional and modern wedding ceremonies Hand fasting ceremonies (a symbolic binding of hands representing unity and lifelong commitment) Norse / Viking-inspired weddings that honor ancestral traditions, sacred vows, and warrior-strength devotion

Handfasting and Norse ceremonies are deeply symbolic. They reflect loyalty, strength, equality, and shared destiny — values that have stood the test of time. My goal is to create ceremonies that are powerful, meaningful, and uniquely tailored to each couple’s path.

I believe love should be honored with dignity, intention, and authenticity. My role as a minister is to hold space for that sacred union and ensure the vows spoken are remembered for a lifetime.

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Purpose and Intent of My Ordination

By becoming an ordained minister, I seek to serve others during one of the most sacred and transformative moments of their lives — the joining of two individuals in commitment and covenant.

My hope is to create ceremonies that go beyond paperwork and tradition, and instead reflect depth, meaning, and personal truth. I aim to help couples begin their marriage grounded in intentional vows, mutual respect, and unwavering loyalty.

I hope to achieve the following through my ministry: To honor love in a way that is authentic to each couple’s beliefs and heritage To preserve and revive meaningful traditions such as handfasting and Norse-inspired ceremonies To ensure that every union I officiate carries dignity, strength, and spiritual intention To serve as a steady and respectful guide during a milestone that shapes families and futures

Marriage is not merely a celebration — it is a declaration of unity, resilience, and shared destiny. Through ordination, I hope to provide ceremonies that embody those values and leave couples feeling empowered, connected, and truly seen.

I am ordained through the Universal Life Church and serve in a non-denominational capacity. My approach respects freedom of belief and personal spiritual expression.

While I honor ancient Norse traditions and symbolic rituals such as handfasting, I perform ceremonies tailored to the couple’s wishes — whether spiritual, secular, traditional, or culturally inspired.

My role is to honor the couple’s path with integrity and respect.

What do you think makes your ceremonies special as a wedding officiant?

My ceremonies are built around authenticity, intention, and meaning. I take the time to understand each couple’s story so their vows reflect who they truly are — not a generic script.

I specialize in powerful, symbolic elements such as handfasting and Norse-inspired traditions, blending ancient symbolism with modern commitment. My approach focuses on loyalty, equality, strength, and shared destiny — ensuring the ceremony feels sacred, memorable, and deeply personal.

Every couple deserves a ceremony that reflects their identity, values, and spirit. I make sure their union is honored with dignity and purpose.

I have experience supporting and participating in weddings, funerals, and ceremonial gatherings, including both traditional and non-traditional services. I have a specialized focus in Norse-inspired and handfasting ceremonies, with a strong understanding of their symbolism, structure, and historical significance.

My background includes extensive public speaking experience. As a former candidate for Governor of Illinois, I regularly addressed audiences in formal and high-pressure settings, developing strong communication skills, presence, and composure. This experience allows me to confidently lead ceremonies of any size with clarity and professionalism.

In addition, I maintain a substantial public-facing presence through social media, where I consistently speak to and engage with large audiences. This has strengthened my ability to connect authentically, project confidently, and maintain steady leadership during meaningful life events.

My goal is to ensure each ceremony is structured, intentional, and deeply respectful of the couple’s values and vision.

Tier I – Simple Union

$200

Best for courthouse-style or intimate ceremonies.

Includes: 10–15 minute ceremony Pre-written professional script Signing and filing guidance for marriage license 30-mile travel included

Add-ons: Rehearsal attendance: +$100 Holiday / peak Saturday: +$75 Travel beyond 30 miles: $1 per mile

Tier II – Personalized Ceremony

$350

For couples wanting a meaningful, customized experience.

Includes: 20–30 minute ceremony Personalized script and vow consultation Phone/Zoom planning session Optional light symbolic elements 30-mile travel included

Add-ons: Rehearsal attendance: +$125 Hand-fasting ritual add-on: +$100 Holiday / sunset prime booking: +$100 Travel beyond 30 miles: $1 per mile

Tier III – Norse / Viking Immersive Ceremony

$550 – $750 (depending on customization)

For couples seeking a powerful ancestral-style ceremony.

Includes: Fully customized Norse/Viking script Handfasting ritual (included) Symbolic explanations woven into ceremony Ceremonial presence and themed delivery 30-mile travel included

Optional Enhancements: Traditional Viking ceremonial attire: +$150 Enhanced immersive presentation (extended ritual, rune blessings, additional elements): +$100–$200 Rehearsal attendance: +$150 Holiday / peak booking: +$125 Travel beyond 30 miles: $1 per mile

Travel Policy

30 miles included in all packages Travel beyond 30 miles charged at $1 per mile (round-trip) 60+ miles may require adjusted pricing or lodging accommodations

I offer customizable ceremonies ranging from traditional and non-denominational weddings to handfasting rituals and Norse/Viking-inspired unions.

I am committed to creating a respectful, inclusive environment where couples feel supported and seen. I work closely with each couple to craft personalized vows, symbolic rituals, and meaningful wording that reflects their beliefs and relationship journey.

My goal is to ensure the ceremony becomes one of the most powerful and unforgettable moments of their lives.