Photo: Jonas Tana, Flickr Creative Commons

One of the first things a newly engaged couple will do is choose and book their wedding venue. Where you hold the ceremony has a big impact on the staging and feel of your wedding, and it can also have an impact on your choice of officiant – and vice versa. For example, Catholic weddings generally have to be performed in a Catholic church by a priest. If you choose to have a courthouse ceremony, you are more likely to choose a judge or city clerk as your officiant.

When it comes to finding a marriage officiant in Queens, there are specific requirements you should be aware of. For example, officiants must register with the City Clerk before they can perform weddings in New York City. U.S. Marriage Laws is your go-to website for all marriage-related laws and regulations.

Next to the venue, the officiant has the biggest role in setting the tone of your wedding. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you select your Queens marriage officiant:

Don’t wait to book your officiant! – Just like florists and reception halls, officiants can get booked-up well ahead of your wedding date. You should book your officiant 1 year to 9 months in advance. This gives you time to interview prospective officiants and find the one that fits you and your betrothed best.
Consider experience – Some people choose to have a close friend or family member perform their ceremony. However, if this person doesn’t have experience with wedding ceremonies and public speaking, it can be disastrous! Most wedding officiants and ministers have performed hundreds of ceremonies, allowing them to polish their presentation skills and to bring a sense of calm and order to what can be a hectic day.
Do your research – Ask friends, family, and even your photographer and caterer for recommendations. See if you can find any information about a recommended officiant online. Form a list of questions to ask potential officiants and schedule an interview. Also be aware of your state and/or city’s restrictions regarding who can legally perform weddings in their jurisdiction. You can always check officiant regulations on our site so that you are never caught off guard.

U.S. Marriage Laws Can Help You Find the Perfect Wedding Officiant in Queens

Take the guesswork out of your officiant search with U.S. Marriage Laws. By filling out our simple online form, you will receive timely responses from up to 5 local wedding officiants who fit your specifications and will impart meaning to your upcoming nuptials. We offer the selection, and you pick the marriage officiant that fits your personality, budget, and location, no strings attached!