Now that you’ve done your initial research (hopefully). And with the help of my previous article ” how to hire an officiant for a wedding”. You should be able to identify at least one prospective Wedding Officiant.
It’s time to take it to the next level and schedule an in person meeting.
Whether you send an introduction email asking to meet or jump onto a phone call; either way don’t be bashful. Time of the essence and you need to move forward with your checklist.
I’ve had many clients call me (unannounced). I’ve always made it a point give them my undivided attention and address all their questions.
You can definitely tell a lot about a someone’s personality and professionalism; when they’re not prepared for an encounter. This may be a 5 minute chat or a 30 minute phone call, you never know.
Once you get past the first few seconds of introduction and reason for the call you. Jump into your wedding needs. This is a good opportunity to ask questions.
Ask about pricing, their services, and discuss expectations. This will be a good start in how to hire a wedding officiant for your wedding.
If you like what you hear than don’t be afraid to request to meet in person. Keep in mind, an in person meeting will give you insight on how you will connect with them.
You may know what you want (in your mind) but having trouble communicating it. Having an experienced Wedding Officiant will help bring those ideas to reality. It will also be the start to drafting the ceremony you’re envisioning.
Once the Wedding Officiant agrees to meet with you. Suggest a location you’re comfortable with. Usually, I meet clients at a local coffee shop somewhere between my location and where the client is.
These places are often quite and have internet access. This is helpful in case the Wedding Officiant would like to show you samples of their previous work. Or take a look at your wedding location online, if they’re not familiar with the venue.
Now, it’s important to make sure BOTH you and your fiancé are available at this meeting. Each one of you, should have questions but share similar expectations.
The most common question I ask when meeting with clients is: “do you guys want to write your own vows“? “
Or do you want to have traditional vows (repeat after me)?” Having you both there helps to communicate to the Officiant what type of ceremony they need to create for you.
If you’re feeling good about a specific Wedding Officiant. You should ask for referrals. Review their website/social media outlets.
Also, confirm they can fulfill any special requests you may have. After that, inquire about their payment process.
For example, if they split this up as an up front deposit and balance rendered on day of service. It’s best practice to leave a deposit to lock in the date/time.
Then you can pay the balance once you’re satisfied with their services. If your Wedding Officiant doesn’t mention that option.
Don’t be afraid to request that payment option. My clients appreciate this offering. It gives them piece of mind when dealing with someone they’re not familiar with – yet.
Make sure to ask for a client contract agreement. This will outlining services rendered and payment options.
Review this information before rendering a deposit. This will make sure that you know exactly what you’re paying for. This also serves as a checklist for your Officiant so they can stay on track.
After you’ve completed all the above and paid the deposit. Your Wedding Officiant can now start creating your wedding vows.
This is not a quick process and does take your input and cooperation.
Two tips: #1 Don’t rush this process
#2 make sure the vows are exactly what you envisioned.
If you have any changes or revisions make sure to express that as soon as possible. This will ensure the vows can be updated at least five days before the wedding date.
These vows are the heart and soul of your wedding.
Remember, this is a special moment in your life and you need to ensure (that at a minimum) everything meets your expectations… Good Luck!
Hernandez Weddings is a family owned business founded in 2007, and since that time we have performed many different types of non-denominational wedding ceremonies throughout Southern California. I started this business after attending a friend’s wedding where the bride’s father performed the wedding ceremony. This heartfelt action, planted a seed within me and I knew from that day on I would like to become an ordained minster and be part of someone’s special day. With over 10 years of experience, I can definitely offer you exactly what you’re looking for.
I’ve had the pleasure to officiant wedding ceremonies for friends, family, and those who hired me online. I know you have many options when selecting someone to conduct your wedding ceremony, but what separates Hernandez Weddings from the rest are two words: QUALITY & CUSTOMER SERVICE. I’m sure you have lots of questions and looking for the best fit for your wedding ceremony – I’m here to serve YOU.
Each client, is unique and treated with the utmost respect; from the our first phone call till the day of your wedding ceremony. Our service offerings are top-notch and we have received rave reviews from many of our clients (check out our Yelp page –https://www.yelp.com/biz/hernandez-weddings-san-dimas). These happy clients have expressed their gratitude and also led to referrals to their family and friends.
Hernandez Weddings specializes in: customized wedding (ordained minister) services which include: wedding consulting, customized wedding vows, attending wedding rehearsals, addressing any questions/needs, all wedding license requirements, additional ceremony requests (United Candle, Sand Ceremony, and Scripture Reading), and we can also offer wedding coordinator services.
Please feel free to reach out and contact us if you would like to learn more about our services and how we can serve you.
IT’S MY HONOR TO BE PART OF YOUR SPECIAL DAY!
