So, you’ve just got engaged, you're busy looking for planners, photographers, and cakes, but oops. . . have you considered who your wedding officiant will be yet?
Many couples save this important decision for later in the wedding planning process. But it’s important to decide what type of ceremony you would like early enough. Most quality and high demand officiants’ schedules fill up quickly. So, research early so you can find the right wedding officiant who can deliver the ceremony of your dreams.
But what do you even look for? Don’t all officiants do more or less the same thing? No. Every officiant has their niche so it’s important to do your research.
Here’s three tips to choosing the perfect wedding officiant:
TIP #1 – DETERMINE YOUR WEDDING TYPE
Wedding officiants offer different types of ceremonies, so it’s important to identify what type of wedding ceremony you would like to have.
Couples who prefer an intimate wedding or only want a few guests may do best with an elopement ceremony. These ceremonies are perfect for brief weddings or people who are on a budget. Often these ceremonies are pre-scripted but personal touches may be added.
If you are not affiliated with a religious community, then a secular, interfaith or semi-religious ceremony may be your best fit. For these types of ceremonies, it is best to choose an officiant that specializes in custom ceremonies, which are designed and written solely with the couple in mind. You may consider an interfaith minister or a lifecycle celebrant who is trained in creating interfaith or multicultural ceremonies.
TIP #2 – CONSIDER THE CHEMISTRY
An officiant does more than write ceremonies. Officiants tell your love story, help you write your vows, and bring meaning to your ring exchange. They guide you through the entire ceremony and licensing process. Good or bad, your officiant will be forever a part of your wedding memories.
Before hiring your officiant, try to connect to see if you are a good fit for each other. During your conversation, consider the following:
Do they seem genuinely interested in you and your partner?
Do they ask questions about your wedding vision?
Do you feel rushed through the conversation?
Do they explain the planning process?
Will your officiant help select the readings?
Will they include a ritual or tips on how to write vows?
Is a rehearsal included?
How will they tell your love story?
Will it be a pre-written or a custom ceremony?
Is there a contract involved or a deposit required?
Does the officiant understand the licensing process in your state?
TIP #3 – DO YOUR RESEARCH
If someone is recommended to you or someone perks your interest, make sure to browse through their website and read client reviews so you get a sense of what it is like to work with them.
It’s also worth checking their credentials because not all officiants are formally trained. This can make a big difference in the personalization and quality of your ceremony. Also, the licensing process can be confusing sometimes, so it’s important to have someone knowledgeable who can work you through it.
So whether you’re looking to have a beach wedding, destination wedding, luxury wedding, or anything in between, keep these tips in mind to find the perfect fit for you!
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I am a licensed wedding officiant, ordained non-denominational minister, and a certified life-cycle celebrant trained at the Celebrant Foundation & Institute.
Looking for a wedding officiant for your upcoming nuptials? Check out my all-inclusive wedding package.