FINDING THE RIGHT WEDDING OFFICIANT

Were you one of the lucky couples who got engaged over Christmas and Valentine’s Day? You have likely already started the wedding planning process but I think the most overlooked vendor in any stage of planning is often your officiant, also known as your wedding commissioner.  Along with other vendors like florists, photographers and musicians, it is very important to consider WHO is going to marry you.  Last year I was so excited to officially become registered with vital statistics Manitoba and now I am proud to say I am legally able to perform marriages in Manitoba.  When couples inquire about my wedding commissioner, (‘Yes We Do’) service I always look for a personality fit since I will be involved in the most detailed parts of planning a couple’s special day.  When you are shopping around for a wedding commissioner, it is important to consider the following:

Availability

While checking your officiants availability seems obvious, it’s a good idea to ask them the latest time they can perform a marriage ceremony on your wedding day should the day run late (tip: hire a wedding planner to ensure your wedding day stays on time).  Many officiants book several weddings per day in the high season so it’s important to be mindful of their time when planning your itinerary. 

Flexibility & Adaptability

Can your officiant adapt their script to reflect you guys as a couple?  Can they adjust between an indoor/outdoor ceremony in case of inclement weather or does their voice project if the microphone breaks?  Also can they work with family members and honored guests to select readings and coach your family through the ceremony planning process?

Personality and Style

What kind of ceremony do you want to have?  Funny and lighthearted or traditional? Make sure that your wedding officiant can meet your ceremony style needs and that you like their speaking voice.  Your ceremony sets the tone for the rest of your wedding and if you aren’t comfortable with your officiant’s delivery, it will show to your guests and in your wedding photos.

Do your research

If you don’t have a wedding planner, ask your photographer if they have any officiant recommendations.  Read reviews , check out pictures and video of their work and join local wedding planning FaceBook groups. When you think you’ve found 'the one,' schedule a meeting and or skype date to make sure it is a personality fit!

Travel Fees and Rates

Careful!  Chances are if you are getting married outside of your local city limits, you are subject to mileage fees.  Fees do tend to vary for officiants depending on where you are in the country and generally you can expect fees anywhere between $200 and $400.  These fees usually don’t include attendance and coordination of your wedding rehearsal so make sure to budget extra!  

PS:  I still have some 2017 dates available.  Email me here to inquire about wedding commissioner services today!