Choosing an Officiate

In years past the choice of officiate was not a decision made by the bride and groom. You chose the church to marry in (usually the one that you or your parents attended) and the pastor/priest of that congregation married you. Today couples have many more choices. They may decide to marry in a church or synagogue or they may choose to marry in a variety of other beautiful venues – outside at a home or park, in a historic building, in a location that is sentimentally special to the couple or even in a section of the reception venue so their guests can immediately proceed to the reception celebration. As you choose a unique place for your ceremony, you will also need to select someone to officiate your ceremony. First of all, make sure they have all the credentials necessary to make your union legal. Secondly, but just as importantly, make sure that he or she is someone who understands what you want for your marriage ceremony. A good officiate will meet with you and discuss your beliefs, your style and the tone you want for the actual day.  They can help you choose or write vows, readings, scriptures or other meaningful parts of your marriage celebration. They should be a professional who you trust and want to be an intimate part of your ceremony. As you meet with ministers/officiates ask about any pre marriage counseling that may be required or time needed to get acquainted with the person who will perform the service and lead you through a very intimate part of your wedding day.