I have been ordained and officiating weddings since 2010. Over the last decade plus of officiating weddings, I have listened, learned and developed how to make each and every ceremony unique. 

My style focuses on the majors like Love, Equality, Patience, Commitment and Unity, and is very supportive of each couple’s belief system. I’m a strong advocate and believer in marriage equality. The most important thing to me is that the couple feels welcome, accepted, and comfortable. Every couple brings with them unique desires and expectations that need to be heard and validated.

Meeting engaged couples, hearing their stories, and guiding them through the biggest commitment of their lives is deeply rewarding for me. I approach every wedding ceremony with grace, practicality, and joy, and would be delighted to be a part of your wedding day.


michael

I go by the nickname “Jay” and would say that I’m a creative soul that has a healthy obsession with painting anything and everything with a rainbow of color. If our paths cross, you’re welcome to ask me what’s the oddest thing I’ve ever painted, as I know the answer will probably surprise you!

Growing up, I’ve been raised in a military family and have lived in memorable places all across the United States…Florida, Maryland, & California to name a few. I’ve settled with my family in Western North Carolina over two decades ago, and I comfortably call Asheville home.

I am deeply devoted to my family and I believe in love at first sight –sometimes you just KNOW. I’ve hardly met anyone who I can’t make smile and I love building lasting friendships with folks from all walks of life.

One other thing I’ll share is that we have an instant commonality - I, myself, have eloped! It was a perfect fit for us and I will always remember how special our day was for me and my Beloved.

I’ll close with trying to convey what kind of Officiant I strive to reach for. I liken it to having you take a moment and envision your favorite song or movie. There’s something that just draws you to it because it has a rhythm or beat you can’t escape, or maybe it’s a heart-pounding scene that has an unforgettable phrase…that exchange of words truly impacted you and your life. Well, that’s exactly what I hope to capture when I support my couples in their elopement ceremony. I strive to listen and understand you and your partner’s unique love story and work to meaningfully express that with my wordcraft and expression. I love being involved in watching my couple’s elopement adventure unfold. I promise and commit to do my best to find your “love song”.

JENNIFER “JAY”

Hi! I am an open-minded and eloquent Officiant, who feels blessed to be doing what I love. It brings me great joy to be a part of people’s happiest day, and I seek to bring enthusiasm, style, creativity, and personality to your wedding ceremony.

I am originally from Nashville, Tennessee, where I grew up in the Baptist church. After living all over the States, I finally settled in Asheville in 2015. I love the outdoor activities, the cooler weather and the breath-taking scenery, not to mention the vibrant restaurant and brewery scene! A lifetime music lover, I spent quarantine time learning to properly play the guitar. I have a passion for travel and exploring other countries and cultures.

I was married in a castle in Scotland, so I knows the challenges of arranging a destination wedding and how special and rewarding it can be. My relaxed, yet dignified style will keep you confident and cheerful through the process. I particularly love to include family and cultural traditions with those who would like to honor their heritage during their ceremonies. Whether you choose a short and sweet ceremony or elaborate and grand, I would be honored to be a part of your special day.



RODNEY

Hey! I’m Jess, a nature lover and adventure seeker who has always been drawn to the spiritual and sacred moments of life. 

I graduated with a degree in Religious studies over 20 years ago and went on to become a yoga teacher and licensed massage and bodywork therapist. Holding space for people and honoring ceremonial traditional and practices has been a passion of mine. That’s what led me to becoming ordained and officiating elopements - it’s been such a gift!  

I love creating a meaningful ceremony that captures you as individuals and as the power couple that you are. I mean you chose Elope Outdoors, so you’re clearly awesome. 

My favorite part is having nature as our church and witnessing such a powerful promise between two people. Having been married for over 14 years, and seeing marriage as a spiritual practice, I love inspiring others towards a life of unconditional love. 

I welcome all religions, non-traditional-secular approaches/perspectives, and all genders. My motto is always “if there’s ever an answer, it’s more love.” 

When I’m not working, I am hiking or mountain biking, traveling overseas and exploring new wonders of the world, playing ukulele with my daughter, or doing yoga on my porch. 

I look forward to working with you and being a part of a day you will never forget! 



jess

Hi there! I’m Julia, and I’d love to officiate your elopement ceremony!

I believe that words, when woven together with heart and intention, can truly create magic. I am a “space holder” (as I like to call it), mostly taking form as a yoga and mindfulness teacher, for over 12 years and I am also a writer. For me, words, both written and spoken, are important. I truly feel in my bones that the exchanging of vows is a sacred contract that should fill you up with joy, love, and purpose.

My goal as an officiant is to pull out the essence of the love that you share as a couple, and turn it into tangible poetry that will leave a mark on your hearts for the rest of your lives. I want to represent you both as individuals, as well as a unified couple, in a way that is genuine to who you are. I enjoy getting to know couples, whether it’s through an email exchange or over the phone, and taking the time to create a customized and unique ceremony.

I am also happy to simply provide a ceremony without personalization, if that is what the couple prefers for the sake of time and ease. Please note that no one ceremony is the same, either way. I love weaving together elements of nature, ancient traditions, and spirituality, without being dogmatic. If you call it God, The Universe, Spirit, or feel unclear as to whether or not a higher power exists, I believe we can create a beautiful ceremony that resonates with you.

I look forward to meeting you and holding space for your special day!

**Currently, I am only available Tuesdays-Thursdays**

JULIA