Vermont Vows Magazine

Becoming a ­justice of the peace in Stowe 10 years ago, Annie Alexander-Kramer has ­presided at more than 500 Vermont ­weddings, and from Spring to Fall her weekends are booked solid with ceremonies to perform. (Winter is slightly less busy.)

Calling herself “The Parsonne,” the feminine form of ­parson, Alexander-Kramer honors a proud tradition. “In the olden days,” she says, “the ­parson would go town to town at different times of the year to marry people and perform ­baptisms. That’s sort of what I’m doing by ­traveling for ceremonies throughout the state.”

Alexander-Kramer typically ­connects with couples two or three times before their wedding day—either
in person or via email—to help design a ceremony that is per­son­­ally ­meaningful and honors ­family traditions. As an ordained “non­denominational ­celebrant,” Alexander-Kramer is able to incorporate ­elements of religious traditions, as well, often mixing ­elements for ­couples with diverse backgrounds.

The rewards of the job are endless. Having presided at ­ceremonies ­ranging from weddings with 500 guests to “planned elopements” with just the bride, the groom, and a photographer, ­Alexander-Kramer says that regardless of the ­particulars, “they are always happy ­occasions.” She ­advises ­couples to give their choice of ­officiant as much thought as they give to their dress and menu, ­making sure to find someone who shares their vision months, not weeks, before the ­wedding date. “The ­ceremony is what gets you ­married,” she says. “Don’t underestimate the importance of the person who will pronounce you man and wife.”

Photo: Landwehrle Photography