The Wonderful Tim and Karen Grimm March 29, 2008, Monte Villa Farmhouse, Bothell, WA
photo: www.chrissollart.com
In this work that I do, I attempt to be as transparent as possible. It's not every day that a couple "shops around" for an Officiant and selecting someone to share in a very vulnerable and intimate moment is a "big deal," if I may be so blunt and bold.
So, here are three things that you may hear from an Officiant - and if you do, I beg to differ:
"Trust me/I promise, I have a back-up." Right - on some of the fullest/busiest wedding days of the wedding season, if an Officiant has a crisis and can't be at your wedding, you may have a big challenge. I have been very fortunate and have been at every wedding of mine for the past six years. And one day, if I do this work long enough, I know there is going to be a problem. On many of the less busy days, an Officiant most often will have a back-up. On those very popular Fri/Sat and Sun times during the summer, this is much less so. I have a few additional strategies that I share with my couples that work and bring comfort.
"No paperwork needed." Get an agreement with your Officiant in writing. If an Officiant doesn't offer you a signed agreement, look elsewhere. Professionalism is key here and you want peace of mind that you are fully contracted for your date/time.
"No, no microphone needed." If you are having more than 50 guests, please consider using a microphone or similar amplification system, especially if you are outdoors. Often, beyond the fourth row or so, people can't hear as well and there is nothing that is more disappointing than attending a ceremony and not fully enjoying the words/rituals/moments.
