Reverend Jill Dillner

Same-Sex Civil Union Ceremony Officiant

Specializes in the Old Customs of Handfasting

Universalist Minister

I am a Universalist Minister available throughout NJ to perform your wedding, civil union or destination wedding. All situations are accepted and respected.

I am happy to perform ceremonies of all faiths, as well as no-faith, and specialize in the old custom of Handfasting.

Together we will create a spiritual, personal ceremony, that focuses on the commitment you are making to each other and your future together.

And we will have a lot of fun!

Officiant Services Included:

• An introductory meeting prior to booking ( to make sure you like me:)
• Custom ceremony creation based on your input
• All related travel and expenses
• Unlimited e-mail and phone consultations
• Same day rehearsal
• Ceremony coordination with venue and vendors
• Ceremony performance
• Filing of completed civil union license

Handfasting - The Old Word for Weddings

Handfasting is the old word for weddings. The term is originally a loan from the Norse word hand-festa meaning, "to strike a bargain by joining hands".

Before the church took over Europe, and required weddings to be done by priests, couples who wanted to marry would have their hands wrapped together, while speaking their vows. The symbolism of the handshake still translates into "you have my word".