Kurtis Cross
May 16, 2025
From lighthearted to traditional... how will your love story be told?
When couples imagine their wedding day, they often picture the flowers, the music, and the reception. But there’s one element that truly defines the celebration: the ceremony itself. At the heart of that ceremony is your officiant... the person who guides the moment you say “I do.” Choosing the right wedding officiant is more than just checking a box; it’s about finding someone who reflects your relationship, values, and vision for the day. Let's outline the steps needed to get the right voice & personality to support your ceremony.
Decide What Type of Ceremony You Want
Before you can choose the right officiant, you need to know what kind of ceremony feels authentic to you as a couple. Do you envision something spiritual, religious, or entirely secular? Do you want a formal tone with traditional vows, or something lighthearted and personal? Clarifying this early on will help you identify the type of officiant who can best deliver the experience you want.
Understand the Options
Wedding officiants come in many forms:
Religious Leaders: Priests, ministers, rabbis, imams, or other faith leaders can provide a ceremony rooted in religious traditions.
Professional Officiants: Experienced officiants specialize in crafting and leading ceremonies of all styles, often with the flexibility to personalize them.
Civil Officiants: Judges, justices of the peace, or other licensed officials who can perform a straightforward, legal ceremony.
Family or Friends: With the right credentials, a loved one can get ordained and lead a ceremony that feels deeply personal.
Each option has its pros/cons. It’s about choosing what feels most aligned with your values and then, the guest experience you want create.
Look for Compatibility
Your officiant should feel like a natural fit for you as a couple. When you meet with potential officiants, pay attention to their personality, energy, and communication style. Do they make you feel comfortable? Do they listen to your vision and offer ideas that feel authentic? Remember: your officiant sets the tone for the most meaningful part of the day.
Ask the Right Questions
To ensure your ceremony is seamless, ask these questions...
How much flexibility do we have in writing vows or customizing the ceremony?
Do you provide a script, or will you help us build one?
Have you performed ceremonies at our venue before?
How do you handle unexpected issues (weather, late starts, etc.)?
What legal paperwork do we need to prepare, and will you file it for us?
Consider Their Experience
A seasoned officiant knows how to balance poise, warmth, and timing. They can engage your guests, guide you through the ceremony with confidence, and handle any small hiccups gracefully. While a family member or friend might bring intimacy, a professional or experienced officiant can bring peace of mind.
Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, the “right ” officiant is the one who makes you feel at ease and helps create a ceremony that feels genuine to your love story. Trust your gut when it comes to choosing the person who will stand beside you in one of life’s biggest moments.
✨ Final Word: Your officiant doesn’t just make your marriage legal — they set the emotional tone for your wedding. Choosing wisely ensures that your ceremony is as memorable and meaningful as the celebration that follows.