Questions? We have answers

  1. How do we know if you’re the right officiant for us?

I am an ordained minister with over 30 years experience.  I am also a professional Master of Ceremonies and a voice over actor.  You can hear my voice on the audio below.  When you contact us, please include your wedding date, time, and location.  We suggest a phone call where we’ll learn more about your ceremony, share more about our approach, and answer any questions you have.  After our initial call, we can arrange an in-person meeting at your location or a coffee shop or café.

  1. Can we write our own vows?

Of course! We welcome it.  Your wedding ceremony is about your relationship and your journey together.  You should feel free to express your love to each other with handwritten vows.  We offer many options for traditional vows which you can use for reference or mix in with your personal vows.  It’s up to you!

  1. Will you help us write our personal vows?

Absolutely! Feeling a little lost about where to start and how long you should plan to speak for? That’s totally normal, and we are here to help.

  1. Can children, family, and friends take part in our ceremony?

Definitely.  Including your guests in your ceremony is a great way to make them feel special and an important part of your special day, which they are!  You can have them share a reading, give the final blessing, and/or take part in the unity ceremony.

  1. How long should a wedding ceremony be?

The length of your wedding ceremony is up to you.  On average, our custom ceremonies range from 15-30 minutes.  Quality over quantity; we take great care in crafting ceremonies that keep your guests present and engaged throughout.

  1. On our wedding day, what time will you arrive and leave?

We take timeliness very seriously.  We like to arrive 20-30 minutes before the start of the wedding ceremony, and sometimes sooner for weddings with larger wedding parties.  It’s important for us to check in with the two of you and everyone involved in the ceremony, to ensure everyone knows their roles and so that everything runs smoothly.  During this time, you may choose to complete your marriage license, or you may choose to complete this after the ceremony.  We typically do not stay to attend the wedding reception.

  1. What are the next steps once we choose to work with you?

We ask for some information to write up our contract to secure the date and time.  We also ask for a $150 deposit.

  1. What are your rates?

Full wedding ceremony: $250-300 in Orange County

Intimate ceremonies 25 guests or less: $200-250 in Orange County

  1. Do we need to have a witness present for our ceremony?

Yes.  California state requires that you have one witness (separate from the Officiant).  If you’re from out of town and need a witness, we can usually provide one for a fee of $50. If you’ve hired a photographer, you can also choose to ask them to sign your license as your witness.  A Confidential Wedding License does NOT require a witness.

  1. Do you perform LGBTQ weddings?

Absolutely. We support marriage equality and stand by our motto, “weddings for everyone.” We are honored to celebrate the triumphant love stories of ALL couples who want to declare their commitment to the one they love.  Also, we honestly can’t wait for the day that this isn’t even a question.

  1. How far in advance should I contact you to book my ceremony?

As soon as you have your date planned! We like to allow plenty of time get to know you, and to plan and personalize your wedding ceremony. We perform many last-minute elopements too, please call us to find out if we’re available.

  1. How do I obtain my marriage license?

You can expedite the process online but you must both be present to complete the process in person.  We’ll review all of the details during our first meeting so that you understand your responsibilities. It’s important have these requirements handled before your wedding day to ensure that your marriage is legal.

Here are some helpful links for Orange County California:
http://www.ocrecorder.com/services/records/marriage

  1. What if I want to change my name?

You must choose what name you will use when you apply for the marriage license and record that name on the license during the application process.

After your wedding day, you will use your Marriage Certificate to change your name for Social Security, driver’s license, bank accounts and credit cards.

  1. What’s the best way to contact you?

We would love to hear from you! For further information, to check our availability or inquire about fees, please send us an email or give us a call with additional information about your ceremony!
weddingshb@gmail.com