Rev. J. F. Hicks

I chose this path in order to perform the wedding of one of my dear friends. I'd spent many years in event planning, so being able to witness the intricacies of all types of events from the sidelines provides a lot of insight. Being there for couples on their special day is a delight.

Born in Cleveland, Ohio, raised in the north suburbs of Chicago; I lived in Indiana briefly after completing my undergrad degree, then moved to Chicago proper and stayed in the city for about 10 years. I've been in Evanston since 2005, but traveled throughout the country, and for a while owned a business in McHenry County.

This isn't a business to me; it's a service. I'm here if I'm needed. I'm usually referred by people I know, often when their officiant falls through or they just want someone they know who will write a personal service. It's a privilege to stand with those who choose to pledge themselves to one another.

I was raised as a Reform Jew, but also grew up singing Christian choral music, attended many churches, and am myself in a mixed marriage with a blended family. I cast absolutely no judgement on anybody else's personal choices, and will incorporate whatever elements are important to you in your ceremony -- religious, spiritual, or otherwise. As far as I'm concerned, marriage is about two consenting adults who love one another and choose to create a certain bond; my own affiliations (or lack thereof) will never be reflected (or inflicted!) upon anybody else. I'm there as a conduit for love and connection.

I personalize every ceremony based on what the couple truly wants, and take on the role they wish of me. I've been told that the ceremonies I've performed were wonderful because they were truly about the couple and not something generic. It's important to me to be there as a support for the couple and their families and friends, so I'm prepared for last-minute changes, special needs, and quick fixes, too.

I've performed weddings from Chicago to Berkeley, CA. Just ask.

That it would be my honor to assist you in your nuptuals, and I don't take it personally if I'm not the right person for you. I think it's important that you feel your officiant belongs there and is really there for you. I'm fortunate to be in the most joyous, loving marriage (second for both of us, together nine years in 2026), and I wish this love for all.