Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily (Cranberg) Westenberger.
Hi Emily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Of course! One of my best friends asked me to officiate her wedding in September 2021, and honestly, I was shocked. Of course honored, but totally surprised! I had never pictured myself doing something like that and really had no idea what it would involve. But when I started writing something for them, I got really excited. Being able to speak to how great they are as a couple on the best day of their lives was an amazing experience. I didn’t expect to love it as much as I did, and I knew I wanted to do it again.
After that, I decided to give it a shot as a side business. I put myself out there on social media and began responding to posts in wedding groups from couples looking for officiants. I quickly noticed there was a real gap in the market- many couples were asking a friend or family member to officiate because they didn’t connect with the idea of a traditional or religious ceremony, but they still wanted something that felt professional, meaningful, and well-written. I think that is why I have had a lot of interest! I create custom ceremonies that reflect each couple’s personality and values. I don’t offer a one-size-fits-all script. I spend time getting to know the couple, understanding their story, and writing something from scratch that is meaningful, engaging, and completely unique to them.
At the time of this publishing, I have booked over 40 weddings all over Minnesota and Wisconsin, as well as in places like Washington, D.C. and Charleston. Whether it’s a big celebration or a small backyard wedding, I put the same care and intention into every ceremony I write and every event I coordinate.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I am grateful that the whole journey has been a positive experience. That said, I have realized that many people have a specific idea of what a wedding is supposed to be, and that can be at odds with what a couple actually wants for their ceremony. I am happy to do something traditional, and traditional ceremonies are meaningful to so many. But after each meeting I have, I’m more excited by how creative my couples can be! I’ve done readings made entirely of quotes from The Office, and even helped couples make something out of clay at the altar to represent their unity. I’ve had the most fun at weddings where we can really tell their unique story.
Every couple I work with has their own vision for their wedding. One of the biggest challenges has been helping couples realize they don’t have to give up any part of that vision. Their ceremony can be whatever they want it to be, and it’s my hope that their uniqueness as a couple shines through each ceremony I run. I always tell everyone that it’s easy to get caught up in the little details: the napkin colors, the seating arrangements, the invite seals, all the extras. Don’t get me wrong, those are still important to many people (especially wedding lovers like me!) But at the end of the day, your family and friends are there to witness and celebrate your commitment to one another. That’s why it’s so important to me that couples feel their ceremony truly reflects who they are.
We’ve been impressed with Emily Cranberg Weddings, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I write and officiate modern, completely customized wedding ceremonies, and I also offer some coordination services. My approach is all about meeting each couple where they are and creating a ceremony that feels meaningful and true to them.
I think the depth of the connections I develop with my couples is what sets me apart. I often say that hiring me feels like hiring a friend who understands who you are as a couple, and I’m proud that so many people have said that is exactly how they’ve felt. I take the time to ask thoughtful questions, the kind that help people open up about who they are.
Outside of weddings, I’ve worked as a school counselor and now as a school administrator. I’ve always been interested in people- what makes them tick, and what makes them unique. That background has helped me so much with officiating. I meet with each couple multiple times before their wedding, not just to get the logistics right, but to really get a feel for who they are. Whether they’re sentimental, sarcastic, or laid-back, I try to pick up on their dynamic and match that in the ceremony. I want it to feel like it sounds like “them.” That part of the process is genuinely fun for me, and it’s a big part of why my ceremonies feel so personal.
Some of my favorite unique elements in past ceremonies have included using a custom brand to stamp a piece of leather during the unity ceremony, a shot-ski at the altar, and having two adorable dogs serve as ring bearers. I am willing to include almost anything, as long as it feels reflective of the couple.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
The wedding industry is special because it is filled with passionate and creative professionals that want to help people celebrate the best day of their lives. It’s an industry inherently built on relationships where vendors must collaborate closely to ensure everything comes together on the big day. I have found that although there are many professionals out there, word travels fast, and once you make a few real connections, everything starts to feel a lot smaller.
We all know how intense and emotional weddings can be, and there’s a mutual respect that comes from knowing what it takes to pull one off. People want to work with others they trust, and that often starts with someone being willing to share advice or offer a connection.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to someone, whether it’s a vendor you’ve worked with or someone that a friend or family member has hired before. Chances are, they will be willing to talk to you about their business, and give advice. I have gained so many mentors and friends from this work and am incredibly grateful. If anyone reading this is looking for a networking opportunity, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.emilycranbergweddings.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecranbergweddings/
Image Credits
Emilee Meador
Shannon St. Clair
Holly Johnston
Lily Lancaster
Luke Payne
