Questions to Ask Your
Officiant
The
ceremony is the most important part of your wedding day. After
all, that's why you're stressing about centerpieces and head
counts in the first place. With just a little preparation,
you can be sure your officiant shares your wedding vision.
Is
s/he available on the day you've chosen, at the time you'd
prefer?
This is, of course, crucial.
Can
the officiant travel to the site?
This is especially important if you're planning an outdoor
wedding, or one in a special location like a private home
or on the beach.
How
long has s/he been performing wedding ceremonies?
You might also ask if there are other recently-married couples
you can contact for advice, etc.
What
are the fees? What is included?
Some items might include the officiant's services, use of
the site, set-up and clean-up, candelabra and other decorations,
program printing, musicians and/or pre-marital counseling.
These may be included in one fee, or may be separate.
What
type of pre-marital counseling is required, if any?
Requirements vary greatly, and can be anything from a meeting
with the officiant, to a series of counseling sessions, to
a weekend retreat with other engaged couples.
Does
s/he have a standard ceremony? What variations can be made?
Ask if a sample ceremony is available for you to use as a
guide. If you have any special verses, readings or music you
would like to include in the ceremony, be sure they are acceptable
to the officiant. Some churches, for example, prohibit secular
music.
How
long does the ceremony usually last?
This is useful when making decisions about the reception,
photographer, limousine and receiving lines.
What
has worked for couples in the past?
If your officiant is experienced, s/he will be able to make
helpful suggestions about readings, vows, music selections
and even the logistics of the wedding day.
Will
s/he be available to answer questions or give advice?
Make sure you have telephone numbers, office hours and other
contact information.
Can
you tour the ceremony site?
You wouldn't buy a house without walking through it, so make
sure you get to see the actual place the ceremony will occur.
Make mental notes on the size, accessibility, and generally
get a feel for the space.
How
early can you be at the site, and what's the latest you can
leave?
You may wish to decorate the site before the ceremony, or
stay afterwards for pictures. Be sure you will have enough
time for all you wish to do.
Is
there a place you can get ready before the ceremony?
Even if you don't plan on dressing at the ceremony site, it's
helpful to have a private room, maybe with a mirror for touching
up your makeup and hair at the last minute.
Is
there a place parents can take their children during the ceremony?
Kids can be restless and noisy, and having a nursery or special
room available can make your ceremony more enjoyable for everyone.
Will
you be able to have a photographer and/or videographer present
during the ceremony?
Are
there any special restrictions?
Some sites do not allow guests to throw bird seed, others
prohibit flash photography. Be sure it's clear what is allowed
and what is not.
When
does the rehearsal take place? Will s/he be present?
Does
s/he have any suggestions on vendors?
When you deal with weddings frequently, you
meet good florists and see the bad photographers in action.
