Rev. Starlene Joyner Burns an award winning wedding officiant and supporter for marriage equality will be showing her support for the ending of DADT by performing free personalized elopements and signature rituals for all active military same gender loving couples who are ready to tie the knot in Washington, DC.
You can book your free wedding anytime. Ceremonies will be held Monday - Friday, 3 pm - 4 pm in the District of Columbia. Offer ends November 10, 2011.
And if you need assistance in processing your DC marriage license, Rev. Burns will process that for you for a small fee.
Then all you have to do is show up in Washington DC and tie the knot.
Ceremonies will be performed by appointment only (location will be disclosed to the couple).
To book your signature ritual or elopement (limited to 4 guests) and to arrange for the processing of your marriage license; call 202.253.3629 or email Rev. Burns revsjb@comcast.net.
Phone calls are received Monday - Friday, 11 am - 7 pm EST.
Each time I am invited to officiate a wedding at the Swann House, I know that it will be an elegant affair. It does not matter the size of the wedding, Rick the Inn's manager, always creates a welcoming environment.
The Swann House is across the street from a doggie park, and close to the White House, DC tourist sites, National Zoo, DC Convention Center, Kennedy Center, and more. They even got a swimming pool.
I would recommend this venue for an intimate weddings for two or a medium size weddings with up to 75 guests to all. And if you need an officiant for your fabulous event, call me.
posted by,
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent
202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
This hotel is nestled in a beautiful affluent section of Washington, DC. So from staying - to enjoying your wedding; Georgetown offers an array of pleasure pleasing opportunities for you and your guest. The nightlife of this city buzzes with jazz, while the Kennedy Center is live with performances, and the food choices are pleothera. You can explore the sites of Washington DC, Virginia, or Maryland during the day; and enjoy your evening relaxing by the DC waterfront. Therefore, I have no problem recommending this venue to you.
I toured this place and saw all it's attractions, the rooms, suites, banquet halls, and restaurant, are all well decorated. So think about booking your stay or wedding at the Holiday Inn Georgetown.
Tell Ingrid, you found their venue on Washington DC Weddings with Rev. SJ Burns.
If you like, you can have an elopement in the gardens
of Montrose Park or the Georgetown Waterfront near Sequoia.
Of course there are many locations in DC for a beautiful elopement,
I'm just sharing with you what's within blocks of this venue.
If you are ready to start your wedding or elopement plans, call me Rev. SJ Burns, 202.253.3629.
For your venue, stay, and catering needs (10 or more guests) call Ingrid. Her contact info is below.
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter and DC Marriage License Agent
202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
It's been a while since I wrote about gay marriages. After the Maryland marriage equality bill was tabled for another year, my enthusiasm disappeared. And with the win in New York last month, my momentum started returning.
New York has taken the position of being the 6th state to offer same-gender loving couples the opportunity to wed. Yes, gay marriages will be happening in New York on Sunday, July 24. This is great news, and I'm happy for all New Yorkers who have waited years for this to happen.
However, there is a sadness to this great victory. Court clerks are quiting their jobs because they refuse to sign marriage licenses for same-gender loving couples or perform their ceremonies. These are some bold city clerks, for them to think that pubic discrimination is ok, is just insane.
With them quiting their jobs, they open the doors for a pleathor of officiants ready to work. And I'm one of those gay friendly officants ready to perform my job. I got my authorization to perform marriages in New York on July 12. Why you might ask, because I love my job, and I love what I do. And it's my way of showing support for my same-gender loving families.
I'll be in New York on July 26. If you're thinking of getting married on that day, send me a message. I'll be in Manhattan.
posted by,
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent
From Australia to DC this handsome (biker) couple, Jason and Benton, decided that Washington DC was the place for their elopement. They had planned a world tour of the US with DC being the first stop. And on April 26, 2011, this couple said their vows under the beautiful sky of Malcolm X Park.
I'm glad they decided that I would be the one to officiate their wedding and walk them through the DC marriage license filing process. They were able to get a wavier of the 3 day waiting period. How sweet.
I took some of these pictures. The ones that show creativity, of course.
posted by,
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent
202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
This couple tied the knot on May 1, 2011 at the Adelphi Mills. There was an overcast in the sky that day and a little drizzle softly touched their guests with the blessings of God, Spirit of Life.
Later, Kim and her Dad captured their guests’ with this little number.
No, this is not one of those boring father and daughter dances you always see. This bride left nothing to chance, she covered everything every carefully; from the timing of everything, to the ceremony words that included a chance of rain, and even this little choreographed dance with her father.
This video would be awesome if taken by a professional videographer.
But it's not about quality, it's about having a good time with family and friends.
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent
202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
DC was not too far away for these two love birds. Travelling from Pittsburgh they tied the knot in our Nations Capitol at the Arts Club of Washington on March 18, 2011. The weather was perfect for their elegant and small affair.
Rachael and Kristin were surrounded by their closest and dearest family. Each person had an opportunity to participate in a blessing stone ritual. The family imbued their individual wishes for the couple into a stone. Rachael and Kristin collected the stones and placed them around their unity candle. As the couple lit the candle their family wishes went forth into the Universe.
This was followed by the family encircling the couple to represent completion, family unity, and strength. Rachael and Kristin recited their vows within a circle of true love.
From the hearts of Rachael and Kristin
"Our family is a circle of strength and love.
With every birth and every union, the circle grows.
Every joy shared adds more love.
Every crisis faced together makes the circle stronger."
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent
202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
I thought I would share this article. The author says that Costco is not only snatching the budget brides away from small companies, but also the big spenders.
And Wegmans Woodmore is also in the wedding game. They are offering formal floral designs at rates that can drive a small florist out of business.
Sure these companies bring needed jobs to the community, but they are also taking business away from those who have depended on neighbors like you to support their establishment.
So what will you do, continue supporting small businesses or the corporate giants? You can support the corporate giants for what they supply Wegmans (groceries), Costco (bulk items). And you can continue supporting the small businesses for their products or services.
Don't trade in, stay committed to supporting those you like. They have a family to feed and take care of just like you.
posted by,
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent
202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
Yesterday, the road to marriage equality in Maryland ended with a vote to recommit the bill back to the House Judiciary Committee. This news crushed the hopes and dreams of many same sex couples in Maryland who felt their time had come to be treated equally.
There are those who believe that the bill stands a better chance of winning next year when the committee takes another look at it. Supporters of the bill want to know how their delegates are going to vote. And this past Friday, there were some uncertainty in about that.
This stalemate has thrown many supporters off their game. However, Equality Maryland vows to use this time to regroup and come back a stronger advocate to win marriage equality in Marryland.
So keep supporting Equality Maryland. They need your continued help.
posted by,
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns
Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister
Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent
202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
Last week, the Maryland House Judiciary Committee voted 12-10 in favor of HB 175 "Religious Freedom and Civil Marriage Protection Act." This means that the same sex marriage bill (SB 116: Civil Marriage Protection Act) will move to the House of Delegates for a vote. If the bill passes by the majority, then same sex marriages will become legal in Maryland once the governor signs off on it.
This weekend I met with 4 couples, and I officiated one same sex marriage in Washington, DC. Even though, I enjoyed meeting and serving every one of them; two couples stood out. The first couple wed at a local hotel in DC. And at the end of their wedding, the lady/groom gave me a big hug while whispering “we really appreciate you,” in my ear.
The second was a straight African American couple. The bride said to me at the conclusion of our meeting that she was glad to read of my support for marriage equality. At that moment, the walls of fear that were built around me suddenly shattered. These walls had been created through the incorrect reporting by the media on the African American stance on marriage equality. And those walls were reinforced by my own fear of religious reprisal from the opposition.
Sure there are those in the African American religious community who are against same sex marriages, as in every racial community in this country. According to the 2009 US Census the African American population in this country is 12.9%, White 79.6%, and Latino 15.8%, etc. As you can see, the African American votes, alone, could never bring a victory (for or against) any law.
So what is really missing? And why aren't there more LGBT supporters showing up at marriage equality rallies, meetings, and mixers? Is there a lack of interest, lack of awareness, fear of reprisal, or religious training that keeps them away? The National Organization for Marriage (an anti-gay marriage group) preaches messages of opposition from the pulpits and radio stations with regularity. Their information is being disseminated over the internet, newspapers, billboards, mailings everyday to support their cause. This group has made allies with most (if not all) religious Americans.
And supporters for marriage equality need to form the same kind of alliance with supporters from all ethnicity.Using the civil rights movement of the 60's may not level the playing field in gaining African American support. Making interracial people feel guilty because of antiquated marriage laws, may not sway their support either.As well as showing religious leaders and church goers that their interpretation of biblical scripture is wrong, for God is love, won't work.
There is a way to reach all people who are sympathizers of marriage equality. And I believe it is through educating them. Most heterosexuals and many (religious and non-religious) gay and lesbians are not aware of the intricate issues of this movement. And disseminating information to enlighten them is paramount.
In the past, I spoke with a lesbian religious leader and was told that she did not believe in two people of the same gender getting married. Therefore, she would not officiate same sex marriages. This was shocking to me. And to date, I get calls from lesbians supporting that same belief and questioning my position on the issue.
People need to be educated, and slogans like, “I love who I love,” “Standing on the Side of Love,” etc. don’t drive the message of injustice home.
"Equal but not Protected,” "Marriage Matters," makes a big difference.
So let me share some facts on this issue in hopes of educating some of you. I want you to understand why same sex couples want marriage protection.
U.S. Census Bureau: (State and County Facts), http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/index.html. This will let you know the racial ratio state by state. So you know that African Americans cannot stop change.
It is my hope that you will join me in prayer (anytime) and become a supporter for marriage equality. Equality Maryland needs your help in making this a reality. http://equalitymaryland.org/
So join the fight, don't stand on the sidelines waiting for others to make your life better, become part of history by getting involved.
Laws change people and their opinions all the time. The religious leader that I spoke about, changed just as soon as the DC marriage equality law went into effect. She now wants to marry her partner, and she's willing to perform same sex marriages.
Tearing down walls, start with people changing the minds of others.
posted by,
Reverend Starlene Joyner Burns Court Authorized Officiant, Ordained Minister Marriage Equality Supporter & DC Marriage License Agent 202.253.3629 revsjb@comcast.net www.startum.com/weddings.htm
"With the fight in the state senate behind us, the equal marriage bill is likely coming to a vote in the House of Delegates this week. Gov. O'Malley has already committed to signing marriage equality into law, so passing the bill in the House of Delegates is the last step to achieving equal marriage rights for all Marylanders.” Mark Anthony Dingbaum, CREDO Action
Many of our LGBT friends and family are waiting for all of us to help them gain the same liberties we have. So help make Maryland a free state by calling your delegate today. Let them know just how important your friends and family are to you. Otherwise, your silence will kill their dream for equality and a proud family life.
I’m supporting my friends and colleagues. I hope you will support yours. So call or send your delegate a message (link provided below).
I know my support for marriage equality have sent many straight couples fleeing from my webpage while questioning my religious integrity. However, my actions are divinely inspired by my love for God and my commitment to serve humankind. I believe in equality for all, because there should never be a privilege class. These feelings are drawn from my own personal experiences as an African American.
When two people are committed to each other and want to raise a family together; no power on earth can ever prevent that from happening. Same sex couples want the same rights that many of us take for granted everyday.
gettoknowusfirst.org
We don't have to worry about not being able to make a critical life or death decision for our spouse.
We don't have to worry about being denied access to him/her during urgent care.
We don't have to worry about getting on our spouse’s health insurance plan; if one should lose his/her job.
We don't have to worry about paying an inheritance tax if our spouse should die.
We don't have to worry about getting survival benefits if one spouse leaves this world before the other.
I believe that God did not call me into service to discriminate against others. God surrounded me with those who needed my support. And it was not meant for me to abandon them because of my own fear of reprisal. On December 25, 2008, I had a dream that showed me the division of churches regarding this issue. In that dream, I saw myself united with other religious leaders in support of marriage equality.
So help me to change the way same gender families are seen. Try seeing them no differently than your own. And keep in mind that it's about equal rights and protection in a Free State.
Would you deny equal rights to someone? I ask this question of everyone; those who know and those who don't know the pain of discrimination or the feeling of being ostersized.
Elizabeth on L was the hot spot for Chip and Frankie's big day. January 9, 2011 was full of love, joy, happiness, and fun for this happy couple.
I was blessed to have the opportunity to be Chip and Frankie's minister. It was easy to see by all the love and support of their family and friends how they became the people they are today.
Their note really touched me.
"Starlene, thank you again for being an integral part of our special day. Everyone had such glowing things to say about the ceremony. We truly appreciate it. You have definitely found your calling. Take care! Chip & Frankie"
May 30, 2010 was a perfect sunny morning in Georgetown and a precursor for a beautiful wedding. Bruce and Chris were tying the knot in a small garden celebration surrounded by their closest family and friends. And this is where I met Baltimore photog Jennifer McMenamin. She was hired by the couple to capture every smile, every tear, and every expression of joy that permeated the air on their special day.
Gay marriages had just begun blooming in DC. And Jennifer was there with an open heart and an open mind. She truly personified her commitment to the arts by bringing her creative flair to this couple’s marriage in a collection of beautiful images that they will admire forever. So I am showcasing her work from this wedding and more, as a way of saying; I like her style.
And here's what Bruce and Chris has to say about Ms. Jennifer.
"Jennifer was great. She was very relaxed and easy to work with. Most people didn't notice she was there. The pictures were great. We were very happy we hired her. The post processing on the pictures was good.
Her approach was to follow us throughout the day and I thought that worked very well. We were much more comfortable with her. We dont show people the pictures of us getting ready in the hotel but they are my favorite. It helps us remember the entire experience rather than just the ceremony. "
To see more of Jennifer's work, visit her website.
And if you need assistance in processing your DC marriage license, Rev. Burns will process that for you for a small fee.
To book your signature ritual or elopement (limited to 4 guests) and to arrange for the processing of your marriage license; call 202.253.3629 or email Rev. Burns revsjb@comcast.net. 
