“We were blessed to have you officiate our youngest daughter's wedding!”
Wedding Officiant · Wilmington, DE · LGBTQ+ Friendly
Meaningful Ceremonies in Wilmington, DE
A trusted celebrant for life's most important moments.
Weddings · Vow Renewals · Memorials · Funerals · Baptisms
As a premier wedding officiant in Wilmington, Delaware, I rejoice in providing ceremonies marked with the utmost care and reverence. Every celebration reflects the uniqueness of your love, life, and cherished memories.
- MDiv · Catholic University
- MS · Neumann University
- Serving couples & families in Delaware since 2005
Testimonials
Loved by couples and families for decades.
From first weddings to multi-generation celebrations, these notes highlight how John continues to be invited back for life's biggest moments.
- 15+ Years guiding heartfelt ceremonies
- Families Returning for multiple milestones
- Multi-faith Religious + secular ceremonies
John's presence, words and love are intertwined in the most loving and heartbreaking of days...
During the sudden and unexpected passing of my father, John Schaal was a steady and compassionate guide for our family. He honored my father's memory with words that were kind, respectful, and full of love. Alongside these touching sentiments, John shared funny anecdotes that captured Dad's spirit perfectly, so much so that it felt as if they were close friends who met for coffee every Saturday morning.
Later, we had the honor of having John marry us in a local park surrounded by loved ones, bringing everyone into the ceremony with laughter, insight and prayer. It is a memory that brings peace and a smile.
John has been a gift in our lives, and we are grateful to call on him as a friend today.
Chip and Tami
“You made our wedding day so special when you married Michael and I 28 years ago!”
“John, we were so lucky to have you marry our son & his wife and daughter & her husband. It meant so much to have my dearest friend marry our adult children.”
“Could not recommend you more! Every conversation with you was meaningful and you listened to how we wanted our ceremony to go... You made our day extra special and we are so grateful for you.”
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My Approach
Personalized ceremonies from a professional wedding minister.
Three promises shape every ceremony I lead.
Personal & Reverent
My personalized approach ensures your special moments are marked with the utmost care and reverence.
Story-First Ceremonies
I believe in creating wonderful ceremonies that reflect the uniqueness of your love, life, and cherished memories.
Every Tradition Welcome
I offer religious, non-denominational, secular, contemporary, or spiritual services tailored to every family in the New Castle County area.
Services
Officiant Services in Delaware for Every Milestone.
As a former clergy member, I provide officiant services for weddings, vow renewals, memorials, and funerals throughout Northern Delaware.
Weddings & Vow Renewals
Personalized wedding and vow renewal ceremonies from an experienced wedding minister, serving couples throughout Wilmington, DE and the Brandywine Valley.
- Personal consultation
- Custom script writing
- Ceremony performance
- Marriage license filing assistance
Memorials & Funerals
Compassionate leadership that honors each memory with words that are kind, respectful, and full of love.
Baptisms
Sacred moments marking the beginning of a spiritual journey, performed with reverence and joy.
Questions & Answers
Your Ceremony Questions, Answered.
Find quick answers to common questions about hiring a wedding officiant, civil ceremonies, and more.
How do I hire a wedding officiant near me?
The process to hire an officiant for your wedding in Wilmington, DE or New Castle County is simple. It starts with a conversation to see if we're a good fit for your special day. You can check my availability and share your vision by filling out the contact form below. I serve the entire Northern Delaware area.
Are you an LGBTQ-friendly wedding officiant?
Absolutely! I joyfully officiate weddings for all loving couples and am a proud LGBTQ-friendly officiant. Love is love, and I am honored to celebrate it in all its forms with inclusive wedding ceremonies.
What's the difference between a wedding minister, celebrant, and officiant?
These terms are often used interchangeably! I am a licensed marriage officiant, experienced wedding minister, and ceremony celebrant. My focus is on creating a personalized and meaningful ceremony that reflects your unique story and values, whether it's a religious, spiritual, or civil ceremony.
Do you perform civil ceremonies?
Yes, I perform civil ceremonies, as well as religious, non-denominational, and interfaith ceremonies. My goal as your marriage official is to create the perfect ceremony for you, tailored to your beliefs and preferences.
Get in Touch
Let's plan your ceremony.
Share a few details about your celebration, and I'll be in touch soon to discuss how we can create something meaningful together.