We recently had the chance to connect with Dannielle Thompson and have shared our conversation below.
Dannielle, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. When was the last time you felt true joy?
I recently officiated a wedding at a venue for clients that booked a week in advance. The timeframe was short so there was no time to meet with them before the ceremony. I was surprised to find that I had met the the bride and groom at previous ceremonies. It turned out that I had officiated weddings for two of the bride’s family members of previous occasions. A moment like that makes me realize that my clients truly value the service I provide for them. It’s an honor when a wedding guest enjoys the ceremony enough to become a future client. It’s a great feeling when you realize people are receiving what you offer and the sentiment behind it.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Wedding celebrations are all beautiful regardless of the size or number of guests. There is something special in the air when two people take this step in life together. For my clients who plan big weddings I offer my services at the location of their choosing. For my clients who want a small elopement ceremony, I have an office space that can accommodate 6 people. The small in-office ceremony is a little different to what my competitions offer. I like having a small space welcoming space for elopement ceremonies can be hassle free.
For all my clients, I conduct a ceremony that is mostly poetry, romantic sentiments and definitions of love. Couples are always welcome to write their own vows or add additional elements to personalize the experience. My services are all inclusive and are offered in either English or Spanish.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Getting an education was always important for me and I knew my family wanted me to be as successful as possible but I was not ready for college after high school. I did not want to let them down but I put off my education for awhile to travel and explore adulthood on my own. New York City raised me so I knew I was armed with skills that would allow me to go anywhere. First, I lived in Puerto Rico for two years and then I moved to Yosemite National Park, California for two years. These places are vastly different in landscape and cultural experiences but both showed me parts of myself I had not seen yet. Both places let me nourish my soul through contact with nature and with spirit filled people. I became a more grounded person with a deeper understanding of what it means to have purpose.
Yes, I did go back to school and get my master’s degree in economics. I did what was expected and applied to work at certain institutions but they were highly competitive. I did not feel accepted or seen even though I had good grades, a positive attitude and passion. I thought the world wanted me to have a corporate job at a large company but I never fit in anywhere I applied. I had to choose my own way which has been more rewarding. Now, as a business owner I am able to use my education along with my personal journey to do something meaningful.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could tell my younger self a kind a thing it would be, “Relax. There are no wrong or right answers so just allow yourself to feel centered and trust your instincts. Take what resonates and leave the rest alone”.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
I come from a very warm and loving Caribbean family. Our family get-togethers last for hours and often last until late at night. We always have fun, food and a lot of laughs. Invited guests are always treated like family and will make comments on how good it feels to spend time with us. We value the times we spend together and the accepting atmosphere. I feel like I bring that same quality to my interactions with clients. Even though, I do not have repeat clients (ideally – no!) the quality time I spend with them on their special day makes them family.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I am at the beach. Somehow just staring out into the ocean gives me perspective. Add in the smell of the ocean, the sound of the waves, the feeling of the sand between my toes and the taste of salt water and you have a complete sensory delight. I feel at home and renewed every time. I am planning a Caribbean trip for right. Can you see why?! Lol.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://atendermoment.com/
- Instagram: tenderceremonies
