Things To Consider Before Hiring A Wedding Officiant
By Rev. Debra Scherff
Wedding Officiants of Ohio
http://weddingofficiants.tripod.com/
So, he’s popped the question, (or you have!) and you are getting married! Now the fun begins. There are so many plans to make and things to think about. The main thing that you will want to decide on is what kind of a ceremony you would like. Religious, Civil, Spiritual, Secular, Theme, Alternative, etc. When you have decided the type of ceremony you want, the next thing to decide is where and who will perform your ceremony. Check with your local county courthouse or the state to make sure who is authorized to solemnize marriages.
If you belong to a particular church and would like for your minister to officiate your wedding ceremony, meet with him or her as soon as you have set your date to make sure they and the church are available to accommodate you, and if they are in fact willing to officiate your ceremony. Many clergy members have their own rules that they adhere to regarding who they will marry.
When interviewing officiants, make certain of a few things before booking.
- Make sure your wedding officiant gives you many choices and control regarding your ceremony.
- Make sure that your wedding officiant is licensed according to your state to solemnize marriages.
- Ask if your wedding officiant requires pre-marital counseling.
- Make sure that your wedding officiant has no problems coming to another site besides a church.
- Ask your wedding officiant what his or her policies are in case of an emergency, either your part or theirs.
- Ask your wedding officiant about fees, travel expenses and/or donations. Make sure there are no hidden costs.
The wedding officiant that you select should be someone that you feel very comfortable with and someone whom you feel confident will perform the kind of ceremony that YOU want. Someone who answers all of your questions and concerns and if flexible with your plans and ideas. Never feel pressured into making a final decision. If an officiant pressures you into booking your ceremony immediately, you may want to find another officiant to interview.
When you are comfortable with your choice, book your officiant as early as possible to avoid non-availability of your officiant. Some officiants require premarital counseling and this may begin long before your ceremony is to take place.
So, go out there and interview officiants, keeping some of these things in mind as you go on your journey. Congratulations!
For specific questions and help please contact us at help@weddingapproved.com
