Welcome
Two Become One Ceremonies

The Questions
You Need to Ask
an Officiant

ASK YOUR WEDDING OFFICIANT 
 
Are you available on my date and legally able to perform a marriage in the state/country where we will have the wedding? 
While it might sound obvious, it’s important to double check a prospective officiant is available and legally able to marry you before diving into any further questions. Asking this upfront will save everyone the hassle of back-and-forth communication if the Officiant isn’t able to perform the ceremony on your specific date or location. 

How will you create the ceremony and how much input will we have? 
“The more information you give, the better your ceremony will be and the more you share of yourself, the more they know you and what is in your heart”.  

Can we write our own vows? Will you help us with that? 
“Many couples want to speak from the heart at their ceremony. Your Officiant should be able to help you put your feelings into words and guide you. 
 
How long is a typical ceremony? 
Each Officiant will have a different time range their ceremonies last, but should also be able to accommodate your preferences. This is one of the most important questions to ask your wedding Officiant, as your expectations of your ceremony length may be wildly different than your chosen officiant’s. 

How long have you been an officiant? How many weddings have you done? 
Just as you would with any vendor, make sure to inquire how long your prospective hire has been an Officiant and what type of marriage ceremonies they’ve performed.  You’ll want an Officiant who’s an expert at logistics and can handle even the most unexpected situations. If you need additional reassurance, simply ask for a list of references to check in with past couples. This is a common question to ask a wedding Officiant, so anyone you're considering should be happy to provide references.   

How many times will we meet? 
The expectations for scheduled meetings should be clearly communicated upfront by your officiant.  Some will require a particular number of meetings and others will let their couples take the lead.   

Do you do rehearsals? 
If you’re planning a wedding rehearsal, be sure to ask if your officiant will be able to attend and if they are comfortable taking the lead. While rehearsals are standard for some Officiants, others prefer to leave logistics to the venue staff or wedding coordinator and attend only on the day-of. 

What do you wear? 
Some Officiants will dress in a traditional robe and stole, while others will wear a suit or dress. Your Officiant should communicate what they’ll wear for your ceremony and in what color.

What time will you arrive? 
Don’t forget to discuss your Officiant’s scheduled arrival time on the day-of and ensure it is included in their contract. 

Do you offer premarital counseling? 
Even if your particular Officiant doesn’t offer premartial counseling sessions, they should be able to point you to a trusted counseling services.   

Will you fill out and file our marriage license? 
“Make sure this is settled up front and that the Officiant is prepared to handle the legal side of the wedding.  Each state’s regulations differ so make sure you are also knowledgeable about what needs to be done with your paperwork”. 

What does your contract contain? 
Before signing the dotted line, have your Officiant walk you through the contract in detail to thoroughly understand the service they’re providing.   

Do you have a back-up? 
In case of illness or unforeseen circumstances, ask if your Officiant is prepared with someone to take their place if need be. 

What are your fees? 
While it might feel more awkward to discuss pricing with an Officiant than with other vendors, this is still one of the most important questions to ask your wedding Officiant. Remember, your ceremony should be the most important part of the day, and it’s what everyone is there to see.”  “With meetings, planning, writing, and performing on the day of the wedding, the Officiant works for more than just the 30 minutes allotted for the ceremony. If you hire a professional expect to treat them the same way you would treat any other professional.”