Key Questions to Ask

Along with your groom and your wedding party, your wedding ceremony officiant plays an integral part of the biggest day of your life. It's important to do your homework and feel comfortable with the person marrying you, and that he or she knows you as a couple. This way, your wedding ceremony has a more personal feel. But how do you decide on an officiant?

• You first need to determine if you are having a religious or secular wedding. If you are getting married in a church, you do not necessarily need to be married by a clergyman, priest, or pastor, but a church or local Justices of the Peace should be able to recommend a good wedding ceremony officiant. (Personal recommendations are always preferred).
  
  
• Meet with him or her in person and remember to ask important questions. Some questions that may be applicable: Can we write our own wedding vows? Can others participate in the wedding ceremony (such as friends or family who are not religious?) What is the nature of the address you typically prepare (it is highly scriptural, formal, or casual?) Do you focus on wedding ceremony traditions such as communion or the lighting of candles? Or do you allow some flexibility as far as readings and/or music?
  
  
• Get an idea of his or her personal speaking style. Ideally, it would be best to attend a gathering that this particular wedding ceremony officiant does to get an idea of his speaking skills. If this isn’t possible, make sure to ask for references and other recommendations. Remember to go with your gut instinct about a person.
  
  
• Also, try to speak with at least three potential officiants before making your final decision.