Your officiant does more than oversee the marriage ceremony. He or she is the person who can help you bring your dreams and ideas to life. 

The officiant will keep you informed of any requirements or restrictions when it comes to your ceremony. Since you may be working with someone you don’t know well, be sure to ask detailed questions to determine if you and your potential officiant are a match made in heaven.

On the phone, before you meet in person, find out the following:

•  Is the officiant available on the date you’ve chosen? Obviously, if he or she isn’t available on your date, this isn’t going to work out.

•  What, if any, documentation is required for the first meeting? Some religions require baptism certificates or other documentation.

•  Is he or she open to personalized vows, particular readings or music? Some religions have restrictions on using secular music or readings. Some require that you use traditional vows.

•  Are pre-wedding counseling or classes required? Again, some religions require couples to attend retreats or “marriage classes” before allowing them to tie the knot.

•  Is there an officiant’s ceremony fee? Fees for an officiant can range up to several hundred dollars for performing a service. If you require the participation of other lay people, such as musicians, it is likely they also will have a fee.

If you feel comfortable with the officiant on the phone and can accommodate his or her requirements and restrictions, you will want to schedule a meeting before sealing the deal. When you meet, go over the details of the site and the ceremony, including the following:

•  Tour the site, noting the capacity, general layout and accessibility. Be sure to note wheelchair accessibility if necessary.

•  What the site provides vs. what you’ll need to provide – i.e., the runner, flowers, candles.

•  Your ideas for music and readings so the officiant can tell you if there are any restrictions.

•  Your choice of vows if you’re not going the traditional route.

•  Your thoughts on the sermon the officiant plans to deliver. He or she may offer to let you hear it in advance.

•  Dress code for your site. Some religious sites require a covered head, sleeved clothes or other wardrobe restrictions.

•  Any documentation matters including the marriage certificate and marriage license.

•  Accessibility for the photographer and videographer, so you can let them know where they will and won’t be allowed to go at the ceremony site.

•  Officiant and site availability for the rehearsal.