How To Perform A Wedding Without Being Ordained

In the US, the rules for who can legally officiate a wedding vary from state to state. In New York, for example, the law states that governors, mayors, state legislators, judges, and clergy members are named as legal officiants, while the average person is not. However, there are ways for an average person to officiate a wedding, such as getting ordained online through organizations like the Universal Life Church or American Marriage Ministries. These ordinations are generally free and can be done entirely online, but it's important to check the specific requirements of the state and local town clerk where the wedding will take place, as their approval is usually needed. Additionally, the person officiating the wedding must be comfortable with public speaking and be able to fulfill the legal requirements, such as registering the marriage with the appropriate authorities.

In some states, a notary can officiate a wedding

Even in states where a notary can officiate a wedding, there may be additional requirements that need to be met. For example, in South Carolina, a notary needs special authorization from the state to perform marriages. It is important to do your research and understand the requirements before planning your wedding.

If you are not in one of the states that allow notaries to officiate weddings, there are still ways to have a notary involved in your wedding. A notary can provide notarization services related to your marriage, such as notarizing life documents, witnessing signatures for the marriage license, and notarizing certified copies of your wedding license. These services can be especially useful if you want to keep your wedding private, as a notary can help ensure that all the necessary paperwork is completed without involving other people.

When planning your wedding, it is important to consider all the options for who can officiate the ceremony. In addition to notaries, religious figures such as priests, ministers, and rabbis, as well as public figures such as judges, court clerks, and justices of the peace, can typically perform wedding ceremonies. There may also be the option to have a friend or family member get ordained specifically for the purpose of officiating your wedding, depending on the laws of your state.

A chaplain can marry a couple if they are ordained

A chaplain can legally marry a couple, but only if they are ordained or licensed ministers or have credentials as a justice of the peace, magistrate, or judge. The requirements for a chaplain to perform a wedding vary depending on the state and local laws. For example, in New York, officiants must be at least 18 years old and register with the appropriate town or city clerk. Some offices may request proof of ordination, and additional documentation may be required for weddings taking place in New York City.

To become ordained, a chaplain can go through an online program or application process offered by organisations like the Universal Life Church, American Fellowship Church, Rose Ministries, and Universal Ministries. These programs often have a simple application process and allow individuals of all faiths to become ordained. It is important to note that the local town jurisdiction has the final say on whether an ordained chaplain can legally perform a wedding ceremony in a particular state.

Once ordained, a chaplain must ensure they meet all the legal requirements to officiate a wedding, including registering with the local government and obtaining any necessary credentials. They should also be comfortable with public speaking and work closely with the couple to create a personalised and meaningful ceremony. Additionally, the chaplain should be familiar with the marriage license requirements and ensure that the license is properly signed and filed to finalise the marriage.

Friends or family can officiate a wedding if they are ordained

It is possible for friends or family members to officiate a wedding, but they must meet certain requirements. The process can be straightforward, but it's important to ensure that all the necessary steps are followed to avoid any legal issues. Here are some key points to consider:

Legal Requirements

First, it's essential to review the legal requirements for officiating a wedding in the specific state and local jurisdiction where the ceremony will take place. These requirements can vary, so it's crucial to research the applicable laws. In some states, like Pennsylvania, friends or family members can officiate without being ordained, but a self-uniting marriage license is needed. In other states, such as New York, the requirements may be different.

Ordination

While not always necessary, getting ordained is a common route for friends or family members who want to officiate a wedding. There are online ordination options available, such as through the Universal Life Church or American Marriage Ministries. However, it's important to ensure that the online ordination is recognised in the state where the wedding will take place.

Registration

In addition to ordination, some states may require wedding officiants to register with the local town or city clerk. This process may involve providing basic information and, in some cases, proof of ordination. Again, it's important to check the specific requirements for the state and local jurisdiction.

Marriage License

It is crucial to obtain a marriage license and ensure that all necessary signatures are obtained. The officiant is typically responsible for ensuring that the marriage license is properly completed, signed, and returned to the issuing office within the specified timeframe. Failure to do so can result in penalties.

Public Speaking Comfort

It is important for the friend or family member officiating the wedding to be comfortable with public speaking. They should be prepared to set the tone for the wedding and should be provided with the couple's expectations, including readings, vows, prayers, and music choices. Rehearsing the ceremony in advance and attending the rehearsal can help ensure their comfort and confidence on the wedding day.

Other Considerations

It's worth noting that some states have unique requirements, such as New York City, which requires additional documentation for ministers during the registration process. Additionally, there may be specific restrictions regarding age, mental capacity, and kinship that must be considered when planning a wedding.

In New York, a marriage license must be submitted within 5 days of the ceremony

In the state of New York, a marriage license must be submitted within five days of the wedding ceremony. The officiant is responsible for completing, endorsing, and returning the marriage license and certificate to the issuing clerk within this timeframe. If the officiant fails to do so, they may face a misdemeanor charge and a fine of $200.

The marriage license is issued immediately but there is a mandatory 24-hour waiting period after the license is issued before the wedding ceremony can take place. The couple must be wed within 60 days of receiving the license. The 24-hour waiting period can be waived by a judge or justice of the Supreme Court of New York State, or the county judge of the county in which either party to be married resides. If there are circumstances that prevent the couple from getting married within 60 days, the officiant must seek court approval for a waiting period waiver or an extension.

The marriage license must be obtained in person by both applicants and signed in the presence of the town or city clerk. The couple must provide valid photo identification and proof of age, such as a birth certificate or driver's license. If either party has been previously married, proof of divorce or death of the former spouse is also required.

In New York, the wedding ceremony can be customized by the couple as long as each individual verbally accepts the other as their spouse. The person performing the ceremony must be registered with the City of New York if the wedding is taking place within the city limits, but they do not have to be a resident of New York State.

The officiant must be at least 18 years old

The minimum age to become an officiant varies depending on the state and local jurisdiction. In New York, for example, the minimum age to perform a wedding ceremony is 18 years. This is the same minimum age for couples to marry in the state, with the only exception being for 17-year-olds who have secured the approval of their parents or legal guardians, as well as a judge or justice of the court.

In addition to age requirements, there are other important factors to consider when choosing an officiant. For instance, the officiant must be comfortable speaking in public and be able to rehearse the ceremony ahead of time. It is also crucial to review the legal requirements for officiating a wedding, including the process for obtaining a marriage license.

While the specific requirements may differ across states and localities, ensuring compliance with the applicable laws is essential to perform a valid wedding ceremony.

Frequently asked questions