Marry Me: 10 Questions with Thalia Arenas

Officiant - Thalia Arenas

Business: Marry Me
Location: Fresno, California CA
Experience: 11 Years
Profile: Marry Me
Website: www.marrymethalia.com

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hello my name is Thalia, a Master Celebrant located in Fresno, California. I perform weddings, quinceañeras, baby blessings and memorial services. I specialize in bilingual and LGBTQ weddings. The packages vary depending on location (your location versus my chapel and by the style of ceremony you want put together). A couple can get married in the office if they simply want to elope, at my chapel, or at a park, at the beach, the mountains, a venue, ranch, hall or certainly their backyard too.

Every ceremony is different based on the couple's selection. My favorite ceremonies are personalized as they tell the couple's unique love story. I am detail-oriented, enthusiastic, prepared, professional, bilingual, and devoted to my couples. I will make sure anything involving the ceremony is perfect. I am also timely and organized. I ensure the procession is coordinated the best way possible for a smooth ceremony because I have developed great skills throughout the years of officiating as a Ceremony Planner. I'm well known for my expertise in being the Minister of Love.

2. What's your experience as a wedding officiant? How many weddings have your officiated?

As of June 2023 I have officiated around 800 ceremonies. I started 11 years ago. Recently I certified as a Master Celebrant with the Celebrant Academy.

3. How far in advance do couples need to secure your services?

For venue bookings I recommend to book me at 9-11 months in advance. However, if the ceremony was planned with a short notice, I recommend to book me immediately so we can go over the ceremony and the marital requirements as set by the state.

4. How would you describe your officiant style?

Venue-based ceremonies tend to be 20-25 min length. During the ceremony I am calm in my demeanor and professional. Leading up to the lining of the wedding party, I work well with other vendors to make the ceremony run in an organized manner. In the case where there isn't a coordinator present, I am good at directing the wedding party to their designated spots.

5. What are your fees for officiating a wedding?

The cost to go to your venue for a general ceremony is $300, personalized ceremonies start at $350 and to obtain the full service with rehearsal it's $450. To see the breakdown of fees check out my page: https://www.marrymethalia.com/services

6. What do you wear when you officiate a wedding?

My standard colors are black, dark grey and navy blue suits or dresses. I always dress formal to be in sync with the aesthetic of the celebration.

7. How many pre-wedding sessions will the couple need to have with you?

If the couple chooses my Full Service package, they get two meeting sessions plus a rehearsal.

8. Will you be able to create a personalized ceremony?

I personalize the speech based on the couple's package selection.

9. Are you available to travel if needed?

I most frequently travel to the couple's desired location or venue.

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

There is a non-refundable retainer to hold the date. The remaining balance is due one week before. Dates can be postponed up to one year. Events cancelled with more than 30 days from the event day, will be refunded the monies paid, with the exception of the retainer. Any monies paid within the last 30 days will be forfeited if the client cancels.