Question 1

How long have you officiated wedding?

Accepted Answer

Let’s just say I’ve been doing this since flip phones were a thing. Over 20 years and hundreds of 'I do’s' later, I’ve seen everything from cowboy boots to black tie ballroom events - and I enjoy them all.

Question 2

Can we customize our ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. I provide an 8-page Ceremony Planner that helps you design a ceremony that sounds like you. One request. I’ve been asked twice to begin weddings with a quote from the movie Princess Bride: “Mawwiage. Mawwiage is what bwings us togethah today…” Please don’t ask!

Question 3

How far in advance should we book you?

Accepted Answer

Sooner is always better—especially for weekends in the spring and fall. In those seasons, weddings cluster like middle Tennessee cicadas.

Question 4

Do you require a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes—a nonrefundable deposit secures your date, wedding location and time. That way you know I’m committed to you. It’s like putting a ring on my calendar.

Question 5

Can we meet with you before the wedding?

Accepted Answer

Definitely. We can meet at my home, via video call, or phone call. Whatever works for you.

Question 6

Can we write our own vows?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Most couples don’t but when done well it’s very nice. Inside jokes that only a few get are ok. And yes, the brides just about always write more.

Question 7

Do you help us plan the ceremony wording and flow?

Accepted Answer

Yes—that’s a big part of what I offer. I’ll walk you through the structure and give you tools to make it personal, polished, and “you.”

Question 8

How long is the typical ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Usually between 10–20 minutes, depending on what you include. Long enough to be memorable but short enough that your guests don’t start checking their watches – or blood sugar. Just don’t cut off too much – it moves fast.

Question 9

Do you attend the rehearsal?

Accepted Answer

Not often, but yes, if requested (and for an added fee). Most couples feel confident without my rehearsal attendance once we’ve talked through everything.

Question 10

Can you legally marry us in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

Yes. I’m a legally recognized officiant (minister of the gospel) under TN law and have officiated thousands of weddings across the state.

Question 11

Do you offer marriage preparation or counseling?

Accepted Answer

I offer a DIY, At-Home Marriage Prep Course that you can complete on your own schedule (and often in your pajamas). Hey, even the guys love it!

Question 12

What do you wear to the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Always the classic black suit, white shirt, , black pants, and black shoes. Unless your doing a honky-tonk twist and then I’ll have to get some boots and cowboy hat.

Question 13

Can we include children or pets in our ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it’s your wedding. And yes, I’ll put the dog biscuits in my pocket (already done it once) if needed to settle your furbaby .

Question 14

What should we call you—Pastor, Reverend, Minister?

Accepted Answer

“Ralph” please. But if it makes your grandma happy, I’ll respond to Reverend Griggs. I’ve been called just about everything and nothing offends me – except what my wife called me one time and we aren’t going there.

Question 15

Are there any surprises in the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

You wouldn’t think you’d need to ask that. But, oh I’ve heard the stories. Whatever we decide on for your ceremony is pretty what we do. Only slight variations possible if something happens in the moment. If a squirrel falls out of a tree on somebody’s head, we gotta say something.

Question 16

Do you stay for the reception?

Accepted Answer

You’re sweeter than a pecan pie for asking (see I am Southern) but it’s rare. Like Batman, once my mission is complete, I vanish. Plus, you don’t want to see me do the electric slide.

Question 17

Do you coordinate with photographers, videographers, DJ’s, etc.?

Accepted Answer

Sure do. We are your team and need to play well together to make your ceremony sparkle instead of sputter. Who wants Beyoncé playing during their vows!

Question 18

Do you move out of the way for the kiss at the end of the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Yep, always! I’ve mastered the art of the wedding-day sidestep so I don’t become a photobombing nerd in your photos.

Question 19

What should we do if we don’t want a big ceremony?

Accepted Answer

No problem! I offer simple elopements, courthouse alternatives, and small backyard weddings. All the meaning, none of the madness.

Question 20

Are there extra fees for travel or rehearsals?

Accepted Answer

Yes in some cases if especially far and for a rehearsal if absolutely needed. I’ll spell everything out up front—no surprises.

Question 21

Do you provide a microphone or sound system?

Accepted Answer

No, but I’ll coordinate with your DJ or venue staff to make sure I’m heard clearly. I could yell but I might spit on you if I do. The best sound comes from in-house systems or one set up by a pro.

Question 22

How soon do you arrive for weddings?

Accepted Answer

I usually shoot for an hour prior to ceremony time. I search out the director, get the license, double-check details and do a sound check for the mic if needed. Takes only a few minutes but everybody knows I’m there and ready to make the magic happen.

Question 23

What happens if you have an emergency and can’t attend?

Accepted Answer

I’ve only missed one wedding in over 20 years—and that was due to the historic 2010 Nashville flood (and the couple couldn’t make it either). In the unlikely event I’m abducted by an alien, I’ll do my best to help you find a backup.

Question 24

Do we need a marriage license before the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You’ll need a valid Tennessee marriage license in hand before I can legally marry you. Don’t worry – though I think they should twist your arm behind your back and ask “Are you sure?” – it’s really easy to get a license.

Question 25

Where do we get a marriage license in Tennessee?

Accepted Answer

At any County Clerk’s office in Tennessee. No blood test. No waiting period. See easy!

Question 26

Do you file the marriage license after the wedding?

Accepted Answer

I can mail it in for you, or you can hand-deliver it yourself to get the certified copy on the spot. Either way, it must be returned within 3 business days.

Question 27

Can you officiate a wedding over Zoom or virtually?

Accepted Answer

Nope. Tennessee law requires the officiant and couple to be physically present for the ceremony to be legal. That’s my understanding. Love may be eternal – but your WiFi isn’t.

Question 28

What types of wedding ceremonies do you perform?

Accepted Answer

Religious, non-religious, traditional, contemporary, and fully personalized ceremonies based on your preferences. If you’ve dreamed it, I’ve probably done it—or would love to . . . unless you are doing a Star War theme.

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