Comments on: 3 Lessons I Learned Officiating Weddings Full-Time

By: Mark Allan Groleau

Mark Allan Groleau — Tue, 12 Feb 2019 16:18:30 +0000

In reply to Trina.

Hi Trina, this is a common conundrum, and I have gotten the same enquiries. Basically, if we say yes without holding to our standards, we’re breaking our obligation as an agent of the state. If somehow it were exposed that we signed the papers without fulfilling the legal obligations expected of us, we could lose our license.

So, I would explain that to the couple, and make this accommodation: I will attend the ceremony and we can do the required declarations and pronouncement outside of their actual ceremony – either before or after.

So yes, maintain your standards. If you do feel that you’d like to provide the service of solemnizing ceremonies (“making it legal”) without presiding over them, just offer a “mini ceremony” before or after so you can do what is required and sign the papers with a clear conscience. Even if it feels like a formality, it is! And your license depends on doing it right. ‘Hope that helped!

By: Mark Allan Groleau

Mark Allan Groleau — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 14:20:13 +0000

In reply to ANDREW WILSON.

Hey Andrew – this is awesome! I’m happy to talk about my journey with you. Just email me at mark@unboringwedding.com and we can connect and set something up!

By: ANDREW WILSON

ANDREW WILSON — Mon, 11 Feb 2019 00:37:50 +0000

Mark,
I stumbled on your post and am really intrigued. I’m currently a part-time officiant. I’ve been doing it for about 5 years, with some success (you can check out some of my reviews at http://www.andrewsweddings.com) but am giving serious thought to going full-time.
I think we share a *very* similar approach in our styles and delivery. Because of those shared values and your success, I was wondering if you would be open to chatting some more about how you made it happen. Thanks and I hope to hear from you!

By: Trina

Trina — Sun, 09 Dec 2018 18:40:35 +0000

I’m an officiant. Lately from wedding wire, I had 5 request to do the signing while family/friend does the wedding. Legally I’m told as am officiant we need to do the declarations and pronouncement. When I tell couple that, they look elsewhere. I’m struggling with letting go of that. I rather be professional and have certain standards and level of service. Thoughts on that?

By: Mark Allan Groleau

Mark Allan Groleau — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 23:41:51 +0000

In reply to Doug Grey. You're welcome, Doug! I'm so glad you found it helpful. Officiating for friends is the perfect place to start. Stick around here, follow the blog, and you could be pro in no time! :)

By: Doug Grey

Doug Grey — Sat, 10 Feb 2018 18:36:08 +0000

Great advice. I performed my one and only wedding for some friends but think I’d like to do more. Thanks for the blueprint