How to Hire a Wedding Minister

In order for a wedding minister to be recognized by the state, he must be authorized by a church or religious organization to perform clergy functions. A wedding minister may officiate over a congregation or parish, or he may be on staff with a wedding planning business strictly to perform weddings.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Ask your minister to officiate your wedding ceremony. If you desire your pastor or priest to perform your ceremony, call his office and set up an appointment to meet with him as soon as you become engaged--or at least 6 months before the wedding date. Church calendars and pastoral responsibilities are often planned a year or more in advance.
2. Hire a wedding minister recommended by friends. If you don't have a pastor or priest, talk to friends or family about the ministers they used. Some ministers will only perform the ceremony for members of a specific religious affiliation, while others are flexible.
3. Ask a professional wedding planner for referrals to consider if you do not have a minister. If you're getting married in a non-denominational wedding chapel, you will likely be given a list of ministers to consider. Ask for names of couples who were married in the facility that you can contact for information about the quality of clergy performance.
4. Inquire about training and experience. Don't hesitate to ask a member of the clergy how many weddings she has performed and what type of ceremony she does.
5. Request information about fees before you hire a minister for your wedding. Some require premarital counseling. If so, ask if it is included in the fee. Get the charges clearly defined in writing before scheduling your wedding.
6. Hire a minister you feel comfortable being around. Your wedding day is stressful enough without questioning the ability of the minister to perform a beautiful ceremony. You should have a sense of security that he has the experience to make the service flow smoothly.

Tips & Warnings

• If you desire to have a minister other than your pastor or priest perform your wedding ceremony in your church or synagogue (such as someone in your family who is a member of the clergy), ask your local minister for permission to do so. This simple act of respect to your minister will be appreciated and may be required before the ceremony can take place.
• Don't assume anything about your ceremony. Always get the ceremony and outline of the scheduled activities in writing beforehand.
• Different states, and some counties, have specific requirements about who can and cannot perform wedding ceremonies. If you're using someone other than a local pastor or priest, check with the state license office in the marriage location for qualifying criteria (see Resources below).

Who Can Help:

• Find Decorators & Designers Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.