welcome to CSWO

Canada's training and ordination pathway for aspiring wedding officiants

where it all began

I built the school I wished had existed when I started out.

When I first decided I wanted to go down this path, I explored a lot of different options. I wanted something Canadian, something substantial but not drawn out, and most importantly, something that allowed me to work inclusively with every couple who came to me. I couldn't find it.

So I built it!

CSWO pairs comprehensive officiant training with a clear ordination pathway through CIMM, the Canadian International Metaphysical Ministry, getting graduates legally registered to perform wedding ceremonies in Ontario, BC, Alberta, Quebec, and Yukon.

I'm so proud of what we've built here, and I truly can't wait to welcome you in.

the cswo difference

Inclusive. Canadian. Comprehensive.

CSWO was built with three things in mind that we couldn't find anywhere else.

We're proudly queer-owned and inclusive by design. Through our ordination pathway with CIMM, the Canadian International Metaphysical Ministry, you'll be ordained as a metaphysical minister and welcomed to serve every couple who comes to you no matter their religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or previous marital status.

We're exclusively Canadian — built specifically for the legal landscape, the provinces, and the couples you'll actually be working with. No adapting content, guesswork, or figuring out what applies to you and what doesn't.

We're also comprehensive without being overwhelming. CSWO Foundations covers everything from the spiritual foundation of your ministry to the legal requirements, ceremony writing, delivery, and running a Canadian officiant business.

Meet the founder

Hi! I'm Karen!

I've been working in the wedding industry for over 15 years. As the founder of Grounded Ceremonies, one of Ottawa's most established officiant practices, I've had the privilege of officiating hundreds of weddings and building a business I genuinely love.

I created CSWO because I wanted to share everything I've learned — and to make sure the next generation of Canadian officiants has the foundation I wished I'd had when I was starting out.

let's get you the same results →

meet the team

You're in good hands!

You'll also be learning from my colleague and good friend, Jamie-Lynn Eckhardt. JL is a fellow Grounded Ceremonies officiant, a former realtor, and one of the most down-to-earth people I know. She leads the A Course in Miracles portion of CSWO Foundations with an openness and accessibility that makes even the most skeptical students feel right at home.

We can't wait to meet you!