Two forms of business cards are stuffed into James Mac Neil's wallet.

One is for funeral services and the other is for wedding ceremonies. The Chathamite is busy in both fields.

In fact, when it comes to weddings, MacNeil is aiming for the 100 mark this year. Since January he's married 60 couples.

The 37-year-old funeral director and ordained minister spends a growing portion of his spare time marrying couples throughout southwestern Ontario.

"Ever since The Daily News carried a small article about me two years ago, my phone has been ringing off the wall by People planning to get married,'' he said.

MacNeil, who is manager of Bowman Funeral Home on Thames Street, is a member of Kettle Creek Weddings.

"Many couples see the value of getting married, but have zero connections when it comes to churches,'' he said. "That's likely why many turn to me.''

MacNeil, who also performs christenings, has 17 weddings already booked for next year.

"Last Saturday was hectic,'' he said. "I performed four weddings throughout the day.''

MacNeil said he takes the pace in stride even though friends suggest that if he was a car salesman he would be "on fire.''

As for same-sex marriages, he said his services have not been requested.

In between duties at the funeral home, MacNeil is often called home to assist his wife, Lee Ann, change baby diapers or perform other household tasks.

"The wife is an important member of my marriage team,'' he said. "She handles the calls and makes all the arrangements.''

MacNeil said several of his customers connect with him through his website.

"I receive between 10,000 and 12,000 hits a month on the site,'' he said. "Many are from People doing their preliminary wedding research.''

MacNeil said that on average, 460 marriage licenses are issued annually in Chatham-Kent.

As for funerals, MacNeil said he averages 80 to 90 a year.

"You might say my services include hatch, match and dispatch,'' he said.

As for fees, MacNeil said it costs a great deal less to get married than buried. His flat marriage fee is $295.