Day #11: Do You Like Your Wedding Officiant?

from June Hoffman and Erik Michaels of Megasound

Your answer is hopefully “yes”.


Due to various reasons, many couples must “search” for an Officiant to perform their wedding ceremony. Even though this is the one “legal” portion of the wedding ceremony, couples should still “like” their Officiant. Whether the wedding is taking place in a church or at an alternate location, the ceremony is important and the person performing the ceremony should reflect who you are as a couple.

Some points to selecting a “likeable” Officiant for your wedding ceremony:

1. Male or female? – Unless you are totally set on a male or female Officiant, be open to the idea of having either a male or female perform your wedding.

2. Professional—Determine that the Officiant has performed many wedding ceremonies and is willing to customize your ceremony. An experienced professional will help you create a meaningful ceremony that you will cherish.

3. Cookie-cutter—Will the Officiant take the time to get to know you as a couple? A personalized ceremony is more than simply filling names into a pre-written outline.

4. Provide on-going support—Will the Officiant be available to talk about the ceremony at the different planning stages? Planning a wedding is stressful. The Officiant should be able to offer suggestions on wedding readings, vows, and music. They also should make you feel comfortable with the planning process.

5. Coaching—Will the Officiant work with you on logistics and run the wedding rehearsal? A true professional will offer ideas to simplify your ceremony or to overcome other obstacles.

6. Voice—Ask the Officiant to read a sample ceremony. Does their passion, voice inflection, and tone meet your expectations or vision for the ceremony?

7. Licensing—Is the Officiant licensed in the state where you are holding your ceremony? Be sure to ask and look at their credentials. You do not want to find out in the future that your marriage is invalid due to improper or nonexistent licensing.

8. Rules—Ask about “rules” for the photographer and video and how the Officiant interacts (or could be distracted) by other wedding vendors during the ceremony.

9. Fees—Ask for a detailed list of what is included in the fee being charged by the Officiant. This is important in case you need to acquire additional services (pre-meetings, travel, music, phone time, etc).

10. Appearance—How will the Officiant be dressed for your ceremony? Check out photos or video as well as asking about options. This is important if you are having a themed wedding or other level of formality for your ceremony.

11. Over-all Likeability—Make sure that you both (bride and groom) meet the Officiant before hiring them for your wedding. Both bride and groom should be happy with their selection and feel that the Officiant will be the best for their wedding.

At Megasound, we offer free, no-obligation consultations so that our Officiants can learn more about your wedding. You have an opportunity to interview both male and female Officiants and ask your wedding questions. Call us to set up your appointment today!