Explore Sacred Salt Ceremonies

Smiling woman with dark hair in a ponytail, wearing large sunglasses, a dark jacket, and a headband, stands outdoors under a bright sunny sky with Crystal Pier in Wrightsville Beach, Wilmington NC visible in the background.

Sacred Salt Ceremonies is Dena Merlino Scott, an all-occasion officiant in Wilmington, NC, and Wrightsville Beach who conducts weddings, unions, and ceremonies. A skilled writer and engaging public speaker, she blends warmth, creativity, and spiritual presence to craft meaningful custom ceremonies and experiences.

Dena officiated her first wedding in 2016, an experience that revealed her natural gift for speaking about love with authenticity and depth, and she has been honored to guide ceremonies ever since. Dena was inspired to begin hand-crafting salt from our pristine oceans as part of her interest in Earth sciences & ancient alchemy; there is ancient wisdom in this experience, and Dena looks forward to infusing your special occasion with phenomenal meaning.

She holds a Master’s degree in Literature, a 100-hour meditation teacher certification, and brings a broad worldview shaped by her background in international marketing, photography, and business. With compassion and intention at the heart of her work, she helps couples feel truly seen, celebrated, and supported on their special day.

For More Info About Wedding Process & Packages, Click Here!

For More Info & Pricing About Special Gatherings, Including Corporate, Friends, & Family, Contact Dena!

Ordained through Spirit of Love Ministry.

Meditation Alliance International Certified Mediation Instructor.

What People Are Saying

  • Lija O.

    “

    Dena was instrumental in orchestrating our nuptials from the beginning stages til the big day. Dena invested the time in getting to know us as a couple, by learning about how we met and our history together :) Allowing us to express our ideas and thoughts , Dena designed the perfect ceremony-while keeping our wishes in mind. Planning a wedding can be very emotional and stressful and having Dena there made it so much easier and memorable for us, we will always be grateful to have had her by our side :)

    ”

  • Andrea

    Best Decision!

    Dena officiated our wedding and it was the best decision we made. We struggled because the logistics of having a ceremony somewhere other than our venue became very complicated. We also wanted a ceremony that spoke to who we are and to focus on our love story. Dena took the time to really learn who we are and helped create a ceremony that was so special and personal. I would recommend her over and over again.

  • John

    Simply the best!

    Dena was responsive and worked diligently to do what we asked of her. She made some wonderful suggestions that were incorporated into the ceremony. Dena was flexible, professional and very personable. Her spirit is manifest clearly in her preparation and presentation. We highly recommend her to any couples seeking to have an inspired ceremony.

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Chat with Dena

Please reach out to Dena to learn more about her wedding or celebrant services, as well as how she can commemorate your special beach occasion with a Sacred Salt Ceremony.

Free 30-min chat