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Role Of A Wedding Officiant Southern California

By Jana Serrano


A wedding will never be complete without an officiant to formalize the ceremony. Choosing a wedding officiant Southern California is part of wedding planning that must be decided together by the couple. This person will solidify their union, not only on paper but in the ceremony as well, so it is important that one choose wisely.

These civil officers can receive and witness a marriage, civil union or commitment. All have legal paperwork to execute aside from the commitment ceremony. Requirements and legalities to be an officiant vary according to each state. Choosing a person for this task doesn't need to be arduous if you follow these steps, since it's going to give you all the information you need. What you simply have to do is read and put it into practice.

The couple must finalize whether the ceremony will be religious or civil. An ordained minister, both certified by state and religious laws, will be needed if the ceremony is to be under a religious roof. On the other hand, whoever is certified by the government can perform a civil marriage.

Friends and family of the couple may have a person in mind for your marriage ceremony. You can ask for referrals from them. Wedding planners may also have a list of officiants they know which you can check and meet with personally.

The bride and groom may attend sessions at the officiant's church or with him or her personally. They may discuss marital matters and what to expect. The ceremony officiant is a key person at the rehearsal and sets the tone for the upcoming day. You can invite your minister by phone or invitation: it's entirely up to you how formal or casual you want the relationship to be.

For your first meeting with the celebrant, ask about their approach to the ceremony. The couple may also suggest something at this point, mentioning whether they would like a very solemn or a light- hearted ceremony. During this meeting, they can also state if they would like to write their own vows as a replacement for the traditional one.

Remember that the minister will not say his fee outright and it is the couple's responsibility to know it. If both are from the same congregation, oftentimes the fee will be given to the church as a donation. Sometimes, the couple will cover the officiant's travel allowance. An average of $100 to $250 is given for the officiant's time most especially if there have been pre-marital meetings.

For civil weddings, it is also helpful to meet with the minister beforehand. Civil weddings are simpler and the expense may vary state to state. The couple must also check with the government as to what is permissible. Sometimes, a civil officer will conduct a ceremony outside or within a government office.

The budget and the coverage of the marriage ceremony will vary per state, and as always, it is better to clear these details up with the officiant before proceeding with any other wedding preparations. Changing minds too often during the marriage ceremony preparation incurs costs as well.




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