Today we’d like to introduce you to Sharnise Sears
Sharnise, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started officiating weddings in 2017 as a side hobby while running my notary business. At first, it was just something I did here and there, but it quickly became so much more. I realized how much I loved being part of such an important moment in people’s lives, and before I knew it, officiating weddings turned into a full-time commitment. Love and marriage go far beyond just the wedding day, and I wanted to help couples start their journey with meaning and intention. That’s how Minister Sharnise was born, and I haven’t looked back since!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has helped me grow. When I first started officiating, I followed a more traditional, “copy-paste” approach to ceremonies. But I quickly realized that every couple has a unique love story, and their wedding ceremony should reflect that. So, I shifted to writing custom scripts, weaving in personal details that make each ceremony meaningful and unforgettable.
Then came the pandemic, which brought a whole new set of challenges. With in-person weddings on hold, I adapted by performing online ceremonies and “micro-weddings”, making sure couples could still say “I do” despite the circumstances. At the same time, my premarital and marriage coaching sessions skyrocketed—couples were home together more than ever, navigating new dynamics, and needed support. Balancing it all was overwhelming at times, but it reinforced my passion for not just weddings but for strong, lasting marriages.
As my business grew, I set my sights on creating an elevated experience for my couples and making my way into the luxury wedding space. I wanted to offer more than just a ceremony—I wanted to design an experience that felt personal, intentional, and aligned with the couple’s vision. Through it all, I’ve remained committed to placing more value on the marriage itself, not just the wedding day. A beautiful wedding is amazing, but what really matters is the life that comes after the vows.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a wedding officiant, premarital coach, and marriage educator dedicated to helping couples create meaningful wedding experiences and build strong marriages. Through my business, Minister Sharnise, I specialize in crafting custom ceremonies that reflect each couple’s unique love story. I also provide premarital and marriage coaching to help couples navigate important conversations and set a solid foundation for their future together.
What sets me apart is my focus on the marriage, not just the wedding. I want couples to walk away with more than a beautiful ceremony—I want them to feel prepared for a lifetime of commitment. That passion extends beyond my business. I currently serve as the Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging for WIPA Cleveland, where I work to create more inclusive and culturally aware experiences within the wedding industry. Additionally, I’m pursuing a degree in psychology, which deepens my understanding of relationships and allows me to better support couples before and after they say “I do.”
I’m most proud of the impact I make in people’s lives, whether it’s through officiating, coaching, or advocating for a more inclusive wedding industry. My work is more than a job—it’s a calling to help couples build a love that lasts.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
Cleveland is home forever for me—I love everything about it! The food scene is amazing, the people are genuine, and having the lake right here adds something special to the city’s charm. There’s such a strong sense of community, and I love seeing how people come together to support one another.
If I had to pick something I don’t love, it would definitely be the cold! Winters here can be brutal. I also think there are some disconnects between certain communities, but that’s something you find everywhere. The good news is, there are always opportunities to bridge those gaps and bring people together, which is something I’m passionate about in both my business and my work with WIPA Cleveland.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ministersharnisesears.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/minister_sharnise_sears
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MinisterSharniseSears/
