Question 1

How long have you been in business?

Accepted Answer

I've been officiating weddings for almost 30 years.

Question 2

Do you do rehearsals? Is that included in your cost?

Accepted Answer

I can be present for a rehearsal if needed for an additional fee. Normally I'm not needed since the primary reason for a rehearsal is practicing walking in, standing, and walking out.

Question 3

Can we personalize our ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We spend time in our consultations discussing the best ways to personalize the ceremony including highlighting your story, unity ceremonies, ring warming, etc.

Question 4

We’re legally married already. Can you still do our ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Of course!

Question 5

Do you provide or require premarital counseling?

Accepted Answer

I do not require premarital counseling, but I do recommend it. Because I'm a full time minister at my church, I typically do not have time to do the counseling myself, but I do offer recommendations for local counselors.

Question 6

Do you meet the legal requirements for an officiant at our wedding destination?

Accepted Answer

I was ordained by my church over 30 years ago. That allows me to legally marry couples in most states including North and South Carolina.

Question 7

What should we know about your pricing?

Accepted Answer

My pricing begins at $200 for a local (south Charlotte/Ballantyne area), simple civil ceremony and goes up from there. My fee depends on your needs i.e. travel distance, length and style of ceremony, rehearsal, etc. I can be flexible on pricing based on your wants and needs.

Question 8

What time will you arrive at the venue on the wedding day?

Accepted Answer

I usually arrive about 30 - 45 minutes ahead of time.

Question 9

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

Accepted Answer

The process for moving forward is: (1) to have a free consultation by text, phone, or video call to connect about the vision for your ceremony and for you to see if I'm a good fit for your needs, then (2) complete a simple online contract and arrange payment. Once booked, we schedule a consultation about 4 - 6 weeks out from the ceremony date. I prefer for that meeting to be in-person if local.

Question 10

What advice would you give a couple looking to hire an officiant?

Accepted Answer

Your wedding day is a big event, and you want to ensure all details run smoothly, especially the ceremony. Choosing the right officiant is crucial—they should be experienced, reliable, and communicative. While their main duty is to fulfill legal requirements, like signing and filing the marriage license, they should also bring warmth, understanding, and a sense of fun. Your officiant should help create a positive, relaxed atmosphere, making sure your ceremony reflects your vision and personality while ensuring everything is official.

Question 11

What questions should couples think through before talking to an officiant?

Accepted Answer

It's helpful for the couple to share the specific date, time, and location of the ceremony and/or rehearsal with the officiant as soon as possible. They should also consider marriage requirements in their state, like needing witnesses for a marriage license (e.g., NC requires two witnesses, but SC doesn’t). Other key details include: wedding planner, PA system, wedding party size, guest count, preferences from past weddings, religious or secular ceremony, traditions/rituals to include or omit, family/friends involved, and family dynamics.

Question 12

What types of couples have you worked with?

Accepted Answer

I have had the privilege of working with couples from a wide range of backgrounds, including various ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic statuses. I've worked with couples who are planning traditional ceremonies, as well as those who are incorporating modern or interfaith elements. I’ve also had experience with couples who are celebrating their second marriages and those with unique cultural or spiritual traditions. Each ceremony is special, and I strive to create a meaningful, personalized experience for every couple, regardless of their background or beliefs.

Question 13

How long will the ceremony take?

Accepted Answer

A classic traditional ceremony is usually 20 - 30 minutes. An elopement or civil ceremony is about 15 minutes.

Question 14

Do you have a backup officiant in case of emergency?

Accepted Answer

In my 600+ weddings, I've never had to miss due to unforeseen circumstances. But if something unexpected happens, I have several ministers that I'm able to reach out to.

Lem LeRoy - Wedding Officiant

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