ABOUT

“Samora connected with us immediately. She understood who we were, what brought us together,
and what we envisioned for our big day. She guided us through the whole process
and made it easy for us to relax and enjoy it.” – June 2014

From early childhood, I was a natural performer, always singing and involved in the theatre. This has brought me inspiration when I am creating and writing ceremonies. As an artist, I have also developed strong ties with the LGBTQ community.   I had just begun officiating when The Marriage Equality Act was passed in NY, and I was so thrilled to be able to legalize hundreds of LGBTQ couples who never believed they would ever be able to marry. All of my mother’s closest friends were gay couples (my gay uncles) and many of them were not around to see this day arrive, so I knew that this was my way of honoring them and my mother.  I have always believed that everyone should be allowed to love who they choose to love and that love has no boundaries.

Ordained as a Doctor of Ministry (2020) and  Interfaith Minister (2008) through The New Seminary of Interfaith Studies.

I was drawn to Interfaith studies due to my eclectic, and sometimes confusing multi-faith background. I had always been interested in theology and philosophy so enrolling in The New Seminary of Interfaith Studies seemed like a natural fit for me  I had no idea where it would lead, but I knew I had found a community of like-minded souls who would support my spiritual journey and show me new ways to serve the world. After my ordination in 2008, a friend of mine asked me to officiate her wedding. This experience opened my heart even more and I knew that it was a calling for me to not only celebrate unions, but also support them in having successful, and healthy relationships.

Common Ground Ceremonies specializes in bespoke, and individualized ceremonies.

Each ceremony is personalized to reflect your individual wishes and overall tone. We do not use a “cookie-cutter” approach because no two couples are exactly alike. We honor all backgrounds and we perform interfaith weddings, non-denominational ceremonies, spiritual weddings, LGBTQ weddings, as well as vow renewals and baby welcoming ceremonies. We serve the Tri-State area (NYC, Long Island, Westchester, New Jersey, and Connecticut) and we will travel to perform long-distance celebrations or destination weddings as needed. If you are interested in an all-inclusive service, we offer curated packages that include top-rated event specialists who offer day-of coordination, photography, videography, flowers, live music, and anything additional service you can dream up.