It’s your big day, and everything should be exactly how you want it. From picking out the perfect color of the gowns for the bridesmaids, to the venue, to the flowers, to the food at the reception, your wedding should be exactly what you dream about. However, staying on top a ton of details can prove so overwhelming that you might not have put enough time into finding a wedding officiant. Read on to know how you can get the right person to help you and your would-be spouse exchange your vows on your big day:
1. Decide on the ceremony.
Are you and your future spouse set on having a traditional Catholic wedding? Will it be a courthouse wedding or a non-denominational one? Whatever ceremony you want will dictate the kind of wedding officiant you need. Just make sure you and your partner are on the same page. If you and your future bride or groom have different religious beliefs, talk it out between the two of you beforehand to find a way to reach a compromise and make it into the wedding you both want.
2. Meet the wedding minister.
It’s important that you meet the person who’ll perform your wedding ceremony, Brides suggests. You need to hear how they speak to know if they have the right tone or personality for the event. This works two ways too. By meeting you and your spouse, you’re giving the wedding officiant the chance to know a few things about you, which can be useful in helping the wedding minister perform the ceremony in a way that will be meaningful and wonderfully personal for you and your future spouse.
3. Comply with state rules.
Before anything else, make sure the minister you choose for the ceremony—regardless of the type of ceremony you choose to have—has all the qualifications to perform the ceremony, and that the state recognizes his ability to do so. An unqualified minister will put the sanctity and legitimacy of your union at risk so make sure you those qualifications checked out before you hire anyone.
4. Ask family and friends.
The best way to find a great officiant is to ask family and friends who’ve already gone through the experience, granted that you trust their judgment in the matter.
Follow these four handy tips, and you’re sure to find the right person to perform your wedding ceremony. Then you can focus on beginning your future life with your spouse!
