How to choose the right wedding officiant
Receptions may get their fair share of attention, but the ceremony is the true centerpiece of a wedding. This is the part of the day when the couple will exchange vows and pledge their love and devotion to one another. It’s also the time when the wedding license is signed and the union becomes official.
An officiant is an essential part of any wedding. This person is responsible for leading the ceremony and ensuring that all requirements are met so that the marriage is legal. He or she will guide the exchange of vows and helps set the tone of the wedding.
Officiants vary depending on the ceremony, including religious, nondenominational or even family or friend. Since the officiant’s role is so significant, it is important to give careful consideration to potential officiants before making a final decision.
Know the rules governing your ceremony location:
If you will be having a religious ceremony in a house of worship, there may be some restrictions regarding who can officiate the wedding.
Traditionally, a priest/ minister, rabbi or imam must preside over a ceremony in a house of worship.
Even though there are some limitations, you may be able to choose the religious leader with whom you are friendly or whose sermons speak to you.
Know what you want:
Some officiants may not have formal training or lots of experience officiating weddings, particularly if couples ask a friend or family member to do the honor. Leaving it entirely up to the person may not be the wisest choice, as you may be surprised by what the officiant says. It’s best to give the officiant a list of guidelines to see if the person will meld with your vision.
When interviewing officiants, note what’s most important to you. It also can help if couples try to determine if an officiant’s sense of humor aligns with their own.
Check for skills:
Professional officiants treat this as a business and have amassed skills throughout the years. They likely will have websites and reviews that you can read through. Consider attending an upcoming wedding to see how a particular officiant performs on the big day.
When selecting an amateur, know that an officiant should have public speaking skills and be able to relate to the audience. Someone who is shy or stumbles over words might not be the right person to put in front of guests.
Has the time:
Of course all the details cannot fall into place if the officiant is booked or doesn’t have the time to tackle such a big component of the wedding.
The officiant needs to meet with you several times, write the ceremony, attend rehearsals, and actually officiate.
It’s important the person you ask has the flexibility to meet all of these responsibilities.
Officiants feature prominently in a wedding. Choosing the right person to perform this important function is a big decision that requires careful consideration.