Planning your dream wedding? You’ve probably already thought about the venue, the dress, the flowers, and even the playlist. But what about the ceremony? That’s where your wedding officiant comes in—a total MVP who brings your love story to life. While anyone can technically officiate a wedding these days, there are things only a seasoned professional would know most people never think about.

Keep these 10 things in mind before asking a friend to marry you.

1. State Laws Are No Joke

Did you know every US state has its own rules for legalizing a marriage? From witness requirements to who can actually officiate, seasoned pros know all the legal nitty-gritty to make sure your “I do” is legit. Trust us, you don’t want to find out your marriage isn’t legal because of a missed signature or the wrong shade of ink.

2. Calm Vibes Only

Wedding jitters? Totally normal. A professional officiant knows how to calm even the most nervous brides, grooms, and yes, even parents! From grounding techniques to cracking the perfect joke at the right moment, they’re like a walking Xanax for your big day.

3. Timing Is Everything

Want your processional to hit right as the music swells? Officiants are pros at planning cues with your DJ timing entrances so perfectly like seasoned directors on a Hollywood set.

4. Navigating Family Drama

Every wedding has that guest. Whether it’s a divorced set of parents or Aunt Karen who insists on giving her unsolicited advice, experienced officiants know how to keep the peace and create a ceremony everyone can vibe with.

5. Reading the Room

If the wedding guests energy feels sleepy or distracted (thanks, open bar), a pro officiant will pick up on it. They’ll adjust their tone, add a sprinkle of humor, or emphasize a heartfelt moment to pull everyone back into the magic of your day.

6. The Pause Is Powerful

When emotions run high—think tears during vows or a burst of laughter during a funny moment—a seasoned officiant knows how to pause, letting the moment breathe. It’s the secret sauce for unforgettable ceremonies.

7. Prepared for ANYTHING

Forgot your vows? No rings? Mic not working? Rain trying to crash your outdoor ceremony? Don’t stress. Pro officiants always come prepared with next-level backup plans. Think of them as the ultimate wedding fixers—ready to handle anything.

8. Striking the Perfect Balance

You want your ceremony to feel heartfelt, but not cringey. Fun, but not a stand-up comedy set. Proofficiants know how to create that perfect vibe—one that rfeels like YOU while keeping everyone engaged.

9. Family Traditions? Nailed It.

Whether you’re blending cultures, honoring specific rituals, or creating something totally unique, a pro officiant can seamlessly weave those details into your ceremony making it look effortless!

10. They Write Like Poets

Experienced officiants are basically wordsmiths. They’ll craft a ceremony that’s tailored to you, highlighting your love and relationship in a way that feels authentic, fresh, and far from cookie-cutter. Your guests will definitely shed a tear or two.

Hiring an experienced wedding officiant isn’t just about having someone stand at the altar with you. It’s about working with someone who can handle the unexpected, calm your nerves, and make your ceremony the absolute highlight of your big day.

Ready to book an officiant who gets it? Let’s chat, and I'll show you how it's done!