Dane Ray Coleman
Ordained Minister in Dayton, Ohio
Why did you originally become an ordained minister online?
I became ordained in 2012 when close friends of mine asked me to officiate their wedding. At the time, it felt like an honor, of course, but also something deeper. I’ve always believed strongly in love, in God, and in the importance of committing your life to another person in a meaningful way.
What started as helping friends quickly became something I genuinely connected with. Standing up and guiding two people through one of the most important moments of their lives just feels natural to me. I’m comfortable speaking in front of people, I don’t get nervous, and I care about making the ceremony feel real, not scripted or generic.
Since then, I’ve come to see officiating not just as a one-time favor, but as a way to be part of something bigger, helping couples start their marriage with intention, authenticity, and a ceremony that actually reflects who they are.
I don't drink alcohol (sober over 4 years), don't smoke, and am free most weekends! I’m ordained and licensed by the State of Ohio to legally perform marriages.
Where are you from?
Dayton, Ohio. I was born and raised in Kettering, and I live in Beavercreek now.
What do you hope to achieve with your online ordination?
I want to give couples a ceremony that actually feels like them. Too many weddings feel generic or rushed, and I want to create something intentional; something people remember.
I want to help couples start their marriage on the right note, with a ceremony that reflects their relationship, their values, and the commitment they’re making. Whether that’s faith-centered, lighthearted, deeply personal, or a mix of everything, my goal is to make it real and meaningful.
On a personal level, it’s also about being of service. I’ve built a life around clarity, purpose, and connection, and officiating weddings is a natural extension of that; bringing people together, speaking with confidence, and helping mark one of the most important moments in someone’s life.
Religious Affiliations
Universal Life Church
Additional Information
I believe in God, and I believe Jesus is the Christ and Son of God. That said, I don’t approach this role as a traditional pastor, nor am I employed as a pastor, and I don’t bring the baggage that can sometimes come with that. Like Jesus, I try to meet people where they are, with love, respect, and understanding.
I believe everyone is on their own path, and that God loves each and every one of us. Because of that, I’m comfortable working with couples of all backgrounds, beliefs, and levels of faith.
If you’re looking for a faith-based ceremony that isn’t rooted in heavy doctrine or weighed down by religious formalities, I aim to create something that feels genuine, approachable, and meaningful, grounded in faith, but centered on your relationship and your commitment to each other.
And if you don’t consider yourselves religious at all, that’s just as welcome. I’m just as comfortable creating a completely secular ceremony that focuses on your story, your values, and the life you’re building together, without anything that doesn’t feel true to you.
What do you think makes your ceremonies special as a Dayton, OH wedding officiant?
I’m naturally funny, direct, and comfortable in front of a crowd, so I know how to keep people engaged and make the moment feel alive, not stiff or overly scripted. I’m a people person, and I can read a room well, which helps me connect with both the couple and their guests.
That said, I’m very intentional about tone. I’m not there to turn the ceremony into a comedy show. I aim for the right kind of humor: a few respectable chuckles, some genuine smiles, and moments that feel light without taking away from the significance of what’s happening.
At the core, I focus on creating something meaningful. I know when to pull things back, let a moment breathe, and allow the weight of the commitment to come through. The goal is a ceremony that feels natural, personal, and memorable, for the couple first, but also for everyone there to witness it.
Types of Service Offered
Marriages, Same-Sex Marriages, Renewal of Vows
Additional Information
I show up fully present and reliable. I’m focused on delivering a ceremony you can trust and feel confident in. I offer both faith-based ceremonies and secular ceremonies.
I also offer writing support for couples who want help shaping their ceremony, vows, or overall flow. Not everyone knows how to put their story into words, and I enjoy helping bring that out in a way that feels natural and authentic.
Above all, my goal is to make the moment memorable, in a real way. Not over-the-top or performative, but something that feels genuine, meaningful, and true to who you are as a couple. It’s your moment, and I take pride in helping make it one you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
I am ordained and licensed by the State of Ohio to legally perform marriages.