Most wedding vendor problems come from things nobody asked about until the contract was signed. Take these questions to every wedding officiant you meet, compare the answers side by side, and get the important ones written into the contract.
When to book: couples usually book wedding officiants about 4–6 months ahead, earlier for peak-season Saturdays (May–June and September–October).
The Questions
- Are you legally able to officiate in this state and county?
- Will you file the marriage license after the ceremony?
- Can we write our own vows or customize the ceremony?
- Is a rehearsal included?
- What is your fee, and is there a travel fee?
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Tips
- Marriage license rules (waiting periods, expiry) vary by state and county; check with the county clerk.
- Friends can often officiate after getting ordained online, where the state allows it.
Before You Sign
- Get the date, start and end times, exact services, total price and payment schedule in writing.
- Read the cancellation, postponement and refund terms.
- Check that the business name on the contract matches the one you researched.
- Pay deposits by credit card where possible, for buyer protection.