What to Ask a Ceremony Officiant

When looking for a ceremony officiant, there are several things you should ask to make sure you get exactly what you’re looking for:

-Is the officiant available on your preferred wedding date?

-If you want to marry in a nonreligious site, is the officiant willing to marry you there if he or she is a religious official?

-Can you write original vows, or does the officiant use standard wording? Can vows be modified to suit your ceremony?

-Do you choose the readings, or do you pick from a list of readings the house of worship/officiant has selected?

-Is prewedding counseling required? Is it one-on-one or in a group setting with other couples? How many sessions?

-Will the officiant be your contact at the ceremony site, or is there an on-site consultant?

-Is the officiant available for rehearsal the evening before the wedding?

-Is the ceremony space large enough for the number of guests you’re planning to invite? Where will everyone (the bridal party, officiant, you two, etc.) stand?

-What will the officiant supply? (Prayer books, aisle runner, huppah, wine goblets, candelabra, yarmulkes, etc.)

-Are there any restrictions on decorating the sanctuary or ceremony area? Rules for photography or videography?

-Are there restrictions on music? If it’s a religious site, is secular music allowed?

-Are there any attire restrictions? (Some churches require shoulders be covered)
-If the ceremony will be outdoors in a public place, do you need a permit? When/where should you apply? Are there restrictions (number of people, etc.)?
Article courtesy of The Knot Magazine

photo: http://www.everafterplanner.com/Images/Wedding-Officiant.jpg

If you need a recommendation on a Officiant please contact us at 248-408-4602. We are also available for Day-of Coordination, Rehearsals, Partial and Full-Service planning.

~Liz