how to officiate a wedding

Ready to become an ordained minister? Around half the ceremonies in my town are officiated by people who get ordained online. As of this writing online ordination is legal in 47 states, so thousands of people want to know how to get ordained to perform weddings. You can read more about the states that allow […]

Officiate A Wedding: The ceremony is too long. We need more time for photos! One of the most common challenges officiants face is the setting sun. Many couples choose not to see each other on their wedding day until the bride is coming down the aisle, so they’ve not taken any photos together. Photographers are

How to reduce wedding Couples stress? One of the most frustrating things I face is a couple who doesn’t meet the deadlines I give them. They’re getting married because they’re grownups and grownups can be asked to meet deadlines. Your sanity and stress level matters too! You want to bring your A-game and it’s a team

Wedding ceremony samples: Nonreligious wedding readings – Never Stop by Safetysuit One of my couples came to me with lyrics from this song, wanting to use them as one of their readings, which isn’t uncommon. I’ve read lyrics from a Jack Johnson song and even from a metal band called, Avenged Sevenfold. Ask your couple

How to manage unexpected noise and distractions You’ve rehearsed and practiced your ceremony, but are you prepared for unexpected noises and distractions?  I rehearse every ceremony many times so I’m able to look up from the page and speak to the couple.  My discipline has paid off many times over because unwanted distractions happen. The

What to do when wedding participants aren’t prepared Many couples choose ceremony elements that include their guests, like the wine box, letter box, unity candle, guest readings, etc. and often times those guests aren’t prepared.  Most of the time it’s because the couple forgot to tell them, so I’m always sure to introduce myself to

Can anyone officiate a wedding ceremony like a friend or family member? Yes, in 47 of our 50 states. Online ordinations are widely recognized, with Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Tennessee being notable holdouts. Check your local laws here. Some states require your ordination credential to be filed, so be sure to check with your county. What about other countries?

What makes a great officiating a wedding? Here’s how you’ll be judged by vendors and guests Nonverbal communication is perhaps the most important kind of communication. Studies have consistently shown that audience ratings of a lecture are more strongly influenced by delivery style than by content. I’d love to tell you that my ceremony material is all

How to officiate a wedding and avoid the newbie ordained minister mistakes When you’re new at anything it’s normal to make mistakes, but when you’re on the microphone in front of a crowd, avoiding the common pitfalls will help you stay comfortable and do a good job for your couple. *Avoid this newbie mistake and check traffic