We shared the 9 reasons you should hire us to officiate your wedding. What if you have to hire someone else?
In the wedding forums on Facebook, couples regular post about having their weddings ruined becaue they hired an officiant that wasn’t experienced or legally able to perform ceremonies. Wedding officiants are the only part of your wedding that is legally required and the only person you hire that can make your wedding invalid. Make sure you choose a marriage minister that is experienced and able to perform weddings in your state.
When interviewing a wedding officiant, it’s important to ask questions that will help you understand their style, experience, and how they can tailor the ceremony to reflect your values and relationship. Here are some key questions to consider:
Experience and Background
- Before you even talk to them, look them up and make sure they are legally registered in the state of Ohio https://recordssearch.ohiosos.gov/
- How long have you been officiating weddings?
- How many weddings have you officiated?
- What types of ceremonies do you specialize in (traditional, non-religious, religious, elopements, themed)?
- Have you officiated weddings similar to ours in terms of theme or cultural elements?
Ceremony Customization
- How do you personalize the wedding ceremony for each couple?
- Are you open to incorporating personal traditions, rituals, or specific readings into the ceremony?
- Can we write our own vows? If so, how do you help with that process?
- Can you provide examples of ceremonies you’ve officiated in the past?
Legalities and Logistics
- Do you have a contract that spells out everything and protects us?
- What do you need from us to ensure that our marriage is legally recognized?
- How do you handle the marriage license and other legal paperwork?
- Do you require a rehearsal, and if so, is there an additional fee for it?
Communication and Planning
- How often will we meet or communicate leading up to the wedding?
- How do you handle changes or last-minute requests?
- What is your process for planning the ceremony with us?
- Are you available to attend the rehearsal dinner?
Style and Presentation
- How would you describe your officiating style (formal, casual, humorous, etc.)?
- How do you typically dress for ceremonies? Can this be adjusted based on our preferences?
- Can you share any references or testimonials from previous couples?
Fees and Payment
- What is your fee for officiating our wedding?
- What does your fee include (e.g., travel, rehearsal, customized ceremony script)?
- What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Inclusivity and Sensitivity
- How do you ensure that the ceremony is inclusive and respectful of all guests?
- Do you have experience officiating LGBTQ+ weddings, interfaith weddings, or other types of ceremonies that might be unique to our situation?
- How do you handle difficult situations, such as family conflicts, during the ceremony?
These questions will help you find an officiant who is a good match for your wedding style and who can deliver a ceremony that reflects your unique relationship.