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Jeanne Pounder
Justice of the Peace
Your "JP" in New Hampshire
Justice of the Peace
Your "JP" in New Hampshire
Frequently Asked Questions
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Neither one of us is religious. Can you do a non-religious wedding?
Yes. Most of my pre-written ceremonies are non-religious. Some have a more spiritual tone, and some simply speak to the significance of two people committing to sharing the rest of their lives together.
Can we have a religious ceremony, even if the wedding's not at a church?
Yes. There are many people who have a strong faith but are not active members of any church. For this reason I have a pre-written ceremony that has its roots in the Christian tradition. I also welcome the opportunity to work with couples of other faiths to develop and perform wedding ceremonies that celebrate their traditions as well.
Yes. Most of my pre-written ceremonies are non-religious. Some have a more spiritual tone, and some simply speak to the significance of two people committing to sharing the rest of their lives together.
Can we have a religious ceremony, even if the wedding's not at a church?
Yes. There are many people who have a strong faith but are not active members of any church. For this reason I have a pre-written ceremony that has its roots in the Christian tradition. I also welcome the opportunity to work with couples of other faiths to develop and perform wedding ceremonies that celebrate their traditions as well.
What does a typical ceremony include?
While ceremonies vary in length and can include readings or music or special traditions, there are three basic elements to a wedding: Statements of Intent (this is the "I do" part ), Vows (an exchange of promises to each other), and a Pronouncement (the part at the end that affirms your marriage). Whether simple or formal (or something in-between), these three elements are at the heart of all of the wedding ceremonies I've performed.
Do we have to say the same vow to each other?
No. While most couples prefer to exchange the same words, it is most acceptable (and often quite heartfelt) for one partner to select or write a vow that is different from the other partner's.
Do you perform same-sex marriages?
Yes. I perform wedding ceremonies for all couples who may be legally married in the State of New Hampshire, regardless of gender. To me, a committed relationship in which two people promise each other the love and support necessary for their mutual growth and development as persons is a relationship that I am happy to affirm in marriage.
Can my children be in the ceremony?
Of course. There are many ways to include family members and friends in a wedding. Everyone can be involved, not just children. A wedding is a celebration, and most people consider it a great honor to be asked to participate. Your loved ones can read poetry, sing, walk one or both of you down the aisle, carry the rings, or share in special things like cairn building, candle lighting, etc. The possibilities are unlimited.
While ceremonies vary in length and can include readings or music or special traditions, there are three basic elements to a wedding: Statements of Intent (this is the "I do" part ), Vows (an exchange of promises to each other), and a Pronouncement (the part at the end that affirms your marriage). Whether simple or formal (or something in-between), these three elements are at the heart of all of the wedding ceremonies I've performed.
Do we have to say the same vow to each other?
No. While most couples prefer to exchange the same words, it is most acceptable (and often quite heartfelt) for one partner to select or write a vow that is different from the other partner's.
Do you perform same-sex marriages?
Yes. I perform wedding ceremonies for all couples who may be legally married in the State of New Hampshire, regardless of gender. To me, a committed relationship in which two people promise each other the love and support necessary for their mutual growth and development as persons is a relationship that I am happy to affirm in marriage.
Can my children be in the ceremony?
Of course. There are many ways to include family members and friends in a wedding. Everyone can be involved, not just children. A wedding is a celebration, and most people consider it a great honor to be asked to participate. Your loved ones can read poetry, sing, walk one or both of you down the aisle, carry the rings, or share in special things like cairn building, candle lighting, etc. The possibilities are unlimited.
Since your husband takes pictures, can we hire him to be our photographer?
While many of Richard's photos are superb, and he's been flattered by the great response from my couples, he is not a professional, and he would decline. His photos are taken at my request, and I share the best shots with my couples at no charge. We can neither guarantee a certain number of images or particular poses.
Is a rehearsal necessary?
If you're planning a simple, informal ceremony, no rehearsal is necessary. I recommend a rehearsal if you are planning any kind of procession (walking down the aisle); or if your ceremony includes bridesmaids, ushers, parents, etc. Often, the wedding coordinator of a reception hall or hotel banquet room will provide this service, but if you wish, I am happy to attend and participate in a rehearsal for your wedding party. There is an additional fee of $60 for this service, plus mileage if the rehearsal is more than 20 miles from my home.
What do you wear when officiating?
I usually wear a black judicial robe, or business attire such as a black suit. I also have several options for more casual events, to include hiking gear for weddings on trails! In all cases, my attire is meant to quietly compliment the mood of the ceremony and provide the right background for my couples.
Do we need to invite you to the reception?
The day of your ceremony will be a special one for you and the friends and family members you've invited. While I always appreciate the courtesy and goodwill of couples who extend an invitation to share in their celebrations, I will almost always decline.
While many of Richard's photos are superb, and he's been flattered by the great response from my couples, he is not a professional, and he would decline. His photos are taken at my request, and I share the best shots with my couples at no charge. We can neither guarantee a certain number of images or particular poses.
Is a rehearsal necessary?
If you're planning a simple, informal ceremony, no rehearsal is necessary. I recommend a rehearsal if you are planning any kind of procession (walking down the aisle); or if your ceremony includes bridesmaids, ushers, parents, etc. Often, the wedding coordinator of a reception hall or hotel banquet room will provide this service, but if you wish, I am happy to attend and participate in a rehearsal for your wedding party. There is an additional fee of $60 for this service, plus mileage if the rehearsal is more than 20 miles from my home.
What do you wear when officiating?
I usually wear a black judicial robe, or business attire such as a black suit. I also have several options for more casual events, to include hiking gear for weddings on trails! In all cases, my attire is meant to quietly compliment the mood of the ceremony and provide the right background for my couples.
Do we need to invite you to the reception?
The day of your ceremony will be a special one for you and the friends and family members you've invited. While I always appreciate the courtesy and goodwill of couples who extend an invitation to share in their celebrations, I will almost always decline.
What happens with our marriage license after the wedding?
After the ceremony, I take your marriage license with me. I complete and sign it, and apply my seal. I then return the completed document to the city or town of origin where it will be recorded. You may contact the town for a certified copy, usually within a week. There is a small fee (normally $12). See my contact page for information on obtaining a license.
Do you perform renewal of vows?
Yes. I think renewal ceremonies can be just as significant and moving for a couple as a wedding. The fee schedule for renewal or reaffirmation ceremonies is the same as for a wedding.
What if??
Just ask. I'll be happy to help. One of my favorite "what ifs" was having a couple ask if they could have a cairn ceremony as part of their wedding. Together we crafted the words for something that had deep meaning for them, and it's now something that I happily share with many of my couples.
After the ceremony, I take your marriage license with me. I complete and sign it, and apply my seal. I then return the completed document to the city or town of origin where it will be recorded. You may contact the town for a certified copy, usually within a week. There is a small fee (normally $12). See my contact page for information on obtaining a license.
Do you perform renewal of vows?
Yes. I think renewal ceremonies can be just as significant and moving for a couple as a wedding. The fee schedule for renewal or reaffirmation ceremonies is the same as for a wedding.
What if??
Just ask. I'll be happy to help. One of my favorite "what ifs" was having a couple ask if they could have a cairn ceremony as part of their wedding. Together we crafted the words for something that had deep meaning for them, and it's now something that I happily share with many of my couples.
Copyright 2011 Willowyn
Jeanne Pounder - Justice of the Peace for New Hampshire
23 Westwood Circle, Dover, NH 03820
(603) 743-1602
Jeanne Pounder - Justice of the Peace for New Hampshire
23 Westwood Circle, Dover, NH 03820
(603) 743-1602