FAQS

15 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Officiant

Your wedding officiant is a key player who sets the tone for your entire wedding ceremony, so be sure to find the perfect person to lead your special day. Here are questions you should ask the wedding officiant during the interview stage with our answers!

  • Are you available on my wedding date/time? Do you have any other weddings on that date?

    During the busy season it is common for officiants to book 1-2 weddings on the same day. We leave several hours between weddings if we book more than 1 a day per officiant. For example, we may have a wedding at 10am and 6pm. You don't want YOUR wedding impacted because the wedding before yours ran late, or the officiant was stuck in traffic!!

  • How long have you been performing weddings? Approximately how many per year do you perform?

    We have been performing weddings for several years. We perform 12 or more ceremonies per year.

  • Have you ever been late to or missed a wedding? What is the back-up plan if you get sick?

    I have several other officiants I can call upon if needed, if one is sick, another can step in. No, I have never been late or missed a wedding!

  • Do you allow photography or videography during the ceremony?

    Of course! We work hand in hand with the other vendors to make your ceremony the best it can be.

  • Do you require pre-martial counseling or a religious class?

    No. However, if you choose to do that, we do offer these classes.

  • How many pre-wedding meetings will we have with you? Are you available for questions?

    We are always available via email, and you can schedule a call with us at your convenience.  See our packages for specific number of consultations either local, or by video.

  • When and where will we sign the marriage license? Will you return the license to the court?

    After the ceremony, and before the photos is when we sign the license usually in the same area as the ceremony. Yes, we can return the properly filled out marriage license on your behalf should you request it.

  • Do you have a written contract? What is your fee or is a donation acceptable? Will you charge extra for travel expenses or the wedding rehearsal? Do you require a deposit?

    Yes, we have a brochure that outlines the ceremony package.  Once we have had our initial consultation and package selected, an invoice for the deposit which is 25% of the fee will be sent to hold the day. Anything over 50 miles will have a travel fee added (gov’t mileage rate).

  • What services are included in the fee? Wedding officiant services

    include: unlimited phone and email support, personalized wedding ceremony that captures your love, professional delivery of your ceremony, file the marriage license with the proper court (if applicable) and travel to your ceremony location. 

  • Is it proper to tip the officiant?

    While not required it is always appreciated.

  • What is the cancellation policy?

    Life happens, and something could prevent your wedding from occurring as planned. Your agreement will lock in Melody’s Marriage Memories to your date and time of ceremony; henceforth blocking MMM from booking another Couple on same date and time. For this purpose; if for any reason a decision is made not to use the services of MMM after retaining by deposit, the Couple must inform MMM in writing at least 30 days prior to the ceremony date to release the Couple from the agreement. The Couple will be able to reschedule using the monies paid for 6 months after the cancellation date. No refunds will be issued.

  • Typically how long does the ceremony last?

    Each ceremony is unique, so the time is dependent on the length of the ceremony. We will let you know the time needed when we have a completed ceremony outlined. Average is 15-30 minutes.

  • Can we add a specialty ceremony (unity sand or rose ceremony, etc.)?

    Of course!

  • Can Family members/friends participate in the service (readings, prayers, songs, etc.)?

    Absolutely!

  • May we write our own vows? If so, will you offer guidance?

    We want your ceremony to reflect your love! What is better than your own words? We will assist you in doing this!!

I hope these questions (and answers) help you on your journey to find the right officiant for you! It is vital that you are relaxed and comfortable with who you choose! Take a moment to check out our reviews, and contact us if you have any questions!!

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