Having a close friend or family member officiate your wedding is one of the most meaningful ways to personalize your ceremony. It brings an extra layer of personality and connection that only someone who truly knows you can offer. But if they’ve never officiated before, a little guidance can go a long way. Here are a few key things they should know before standing up there with you:

Get Legally Ready
Marriage laws vary by state, so make sure your officiant applies for proper licensing ahead of time. This will ensure your ceremony is not just beautiful, but also legally binding.

Review The Marriage License Ahead Of Time
The marriage license is the most important document on wedding day because it is the only legal proof that the marriage happened.  Every state has a different license so it’s good for the officiant to understand what needs to be written onto the license in the state the wedding is taking place, as well as who else needs to sign it.  If the marriage license is not completed correctly – or if it is not mailed back to the appropriate office in time – there could be issues with certifying the marriage altogether.

Be Heard
On wedding day every officiant should connect with whoever is providing a microphone for the ceremony no later than an hour before go time.  Most bands and DJs can provide the equipment but it is important to make sure the officiant understands how to use the microphone and, if it’s on a stand, the microphone is at the right height prior to walking up to it to start the ceremony.

Remind Guests: No Cell Phones
At the beginning of the ceremony before anyone else has walked down the aisle, the officiant should kindly remind guests to silence and put away their phones. This ensures that everyone stays present in the moment—and your professional photos won’t be filled with glowing screens or raised arms.

Ask Guests to Sit Down
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, but don’t forget to start the ceremony with this simple instruction! Guests will stand for the bride as she walks down the aisle so after the wedding party has entered and the couple is in place, the officiant should welcome everyone and kindly ask guests to be seated. It sets the tone and keeps the ceremony comfortable.

Step Aside for the First Kiss
After pronouncing you married—cue the applause!—it’s crucial that the officiant takes a quick step to the side. This simple move ensures your photographer gets a clear, unobstructed shot of your first kiss as a married couple.

Get A Coach!
We have so many of our couples choose to have a friend or family member officiate their wedding, but if the officiant is unsure of how to write the ceremony, what requirements need to be followed to ensure the wedding is made legal, or just wants tips and advice for pulling it all off flawlessly, we offer Officiant Coaching services.  Having professional guidance is a win-win for the couple and the officiant to make sure the ceremony is a smashing success on wedding day.

Being asked to officiate a friend or family member’s wedding is an honor, and with just a few thoughtful tips, your loved one can help make your ceremony unforgettable—for all the right reasons.

Xoxo,
The WPP Team

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