Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kevin Harper. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Kevin, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I don’t like to say I’ve necessarily found my purpose. Don’t get me wrong, I love doing what I do in almost every aspect of my life, but I believe it goes beyond finding one sole reason behind my decisions, my actions, or my thought processes. In regards to officiating weddings, celebrating the joy and happiness of an occasion on a couple’s biggest day gives me a sense of fulfillment like no other. For a brief moment in time, I can help sometimes hundreds of people understand why they’ve gathered, and in today’s climate, it’s finally something worth celebrating.
Growing up, my family helped me understand that this is what is important in life. It’s long weeks in a shore house. It’s spaghetti dinners on a Sunday. It’s wiffle ball games in the front yard, and it’s a group of cousins walking to a local park. It’s memories like those, benchmarked by a significant event such as a wedding, that allow grown families to gather once again and reflect on moments that shaped the two people exchanging vows on their journey to create families and memories of their very own.
Aside from officiating weddings, my primary roles are as a father and husband, followed by my career as a firefighter. Whether it’s at home, serving my community, or crafting memorable wedding ceremonies, I always strive to make a lasting positive impact and create meaningful experiences for everyone involved. Marrying my wife, Rachel, and being a father to my energetic 2.5-year-old son has brought immense joy and taught me the beauty of simple moments, which I cherish and share with the couples I officiate for. It’s important to me that we uncover every moment leading to their decision to exchange vows, as it adds depth and significance to their ceremony. Ultimately, in all aspects of my life, I’ve been afforded the opportunity to positively impact others and find fulfillment in making a difference.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
It’s been really awesome, starting from a college joke to now being a part of countless wedding celebrations. I’ve had the honor of officiating for couples across various locations, from local venues to dream destinations with stunning backdrops for love.
My role goes beyond simply presiding over a couple on their big day. Getting “Hitched! By Harper” is all about connecting with each couple from the initial consultation, observing their interactions, and assuring them that this day is all about celebrating their love. We dive into their unique love story, reminiscing about their first dates and the pivotal moment of the proposal. We discuss their vision for the ceremony and their hopes for the future.
While some may consider it excessive, I see it as a reflection of their love story.
On the wedding day itself, I don’t just arrive, give a speech, and sign paperwork. I engage with the family, energize the wedding party, and set the emotional tone for the rollercoaster of emotions that lie ahead.
I understand that many couples focus on planning the reception – who wouldn’t love the idea of great food, refreshing drinks, and a beautiful wedding cake? However, I strive to create a moment of calm amidst the chaos, still creating a fun but emotional experience, and ensuring it’s unforgettable in every way.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
To me personally, I don’t perceive what I do as merely a business, but rather as an enriching experience. While this may sound like a cliché, it holds true. Maintaining this perspective throughout every ceremony I officiate is paramount, as I understand that each officiant brings their unique style and approach to the table.
There are countless skills, qualities, and areas of knowledge that I could discuss, but when I reflect on what guides me before each consultation, it’s a delicate balance of all three categories.
First and foremost, maintaining a positive attitude is essential. Whether officiating, photographing, hosting, or catering a wedding, couples seek vendors who can infuse their special day with positivity and joy. By taking the time to truly understand the couple and reflect on their love story, not only do they feel more at ease in choosing you, but it also leaves a lasting impact on your work. Recognizing that every tiny moment leads to you being a part of their big day is key.
Secondly, adaptability is crucial. In the unpredictable world of weddings, mishaps are bound to occur. As a wedding officiant, I’ve come to accept that minor hiccups are inevitable—whether it’s stumbling over a word or encountering technical difficulties. How you choose to adapt, without succumbing to a complete meltdown, is what truly matters. Addressing challenges with grace and confidence ensures that the show goes on smoothly.
Lastly, brushing up on the legal aspects is indispensable. Having a solid understanding of the legalities reassures the couple that they’re in capable hands. While skills and qualities can be acquired effortlessly, knowledge is acquired through conscious effort. What’s even more valuable to couples is your ability to admit when you don’t know something and commit to researching and providing an answer promptly. In the realm of marriage license processes, there’s no room for error.
In summary, maintaining a positive attitude, staying adaptable, and prioritizing legal knowledge are essential components of success as a wedding officiant. Embracing these qualities not only enhances your professional reputation but also ensures a memorable and seamless experience for the couples you serve.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal clients are adventurous soulmates who believe that love should be celebrated with laughter, creativity, and a dash of spontaneity. They’re the kind of couples who are eager to break away from convention of a scripts and embrace a wedding ceremony that’s as unique and vibrant as their love story.
These couples are not afraid to infuse their ceremony with personal touches, whether it’s incorporating inside jokes, sharing funny anecdotes about their journey together, or including friends or families in the festivities. They understand that their wedding day is a reflection of their personalities and values, and they’re excited to create an experience that resonates with them and their guests.
What sets my ideal clients apart is their enthusiasm for collaboration. They’re eager to work together to craft a ceremony that perfectly captures their essence as a couple. Whether they envision a beautiful outdoor ceremony, a heartfelt indoor affair, or something completely offbeat, they’re ready to roll up their sleeves and dive into the planning process with enthusiasm and creativity.
Most importantly, my ideal clients share my belief that a wedding should be a joyous celebration of love, filled with laughter, happy tears, and unforgettable moments. If you’re ready to embark on a journey to create a wedding ceremony that’s as fun and exciting as it is elegant and meaningful, then you’re exactly the kind of couple I’m thrilled to work with.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.hitchedbyharper.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/hitchedbyharper
- Facebook: facebook.com/hitchedbyharper
- Other: https://weddingofficiants.com/directory/united-states/new-jersey/hammonton/hitched-by-harper/ https://iapwo.org/membership/united-states/new-jersey/hammonton/hitched-by-harper/
Image Credits
EricaJay Photography Nicole Daake Photography Courtney Kattler Photos Revel Studios NJ Andy Peralta Photography
