When a couple finally decides to tie the knot, they are faced with seemingly endless decisions. Building a guest list, finding a venue, and coordinating entertainment are only a few of the tasks engaged couples are faced with. While choices like these are among the most exciting, the importance of finding the right officiant cannot be overlooked.

While it's obvious that someone must preside over a wedding, couples are not always clear on what to look for in the person they choose. Leading a wedding service entails far more than just following a script. It is important that the officiant is someone who is professional, caring, and eager to keep the couple in the forefront on their big day. 

Humility 

Traditionally, wedding officiants work on behalf of religious organizations. Unfortunately, this sometimes means that they are not always inclusive when it comes to presiding over weddings. Every couple deserves an officiant who understands that they are there to serve. Whether the individual is affiliated with a church or not, they must be open and accepting of the couple and their vision for the wedding. While there are many religious officials who are humble, open and accepting, some couples find it helpful to explore secular officiants or those affiliated with alternative religious movements. 

Experience 

Once a couple has found someone who respects their vision, they may find that they need assistance with the flow and order of the service. Experienced officiants should be able to advise them on the best way to conduct their service so that it aligns with their vision. In circumstances where the couple needs assistance in arranging a service, the professional’s insight can go a long way toward creating an experience to be cherished forever. 

Spiritual Guidance 

Weddings are a huge life milestone. As such, they are highly emotional events. During the lead-up to the wedding, and during the ceremony itself, the couple is likely to experience an incredible range of emotions. A good officiator must be prepared for this and be a solid base of support for the couple. While they serve a logistical and ceremonial function, the officiant is also a source of spiritual guidance. 

Cost 

As with most elements of a wedding, officiants will need to be paid for their services. The cost to hire this professional can range from a couple hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars. For example, couples who are simply seeking someone to read vows can likely hire someone for under $250. Couples who are working on a tight budget may even opt to have a friend or family member fulfill the role. Professional officiators with extensive experience and knowledge of the industry often charge more. These prices are also influenced by the local wedding industry, with prices generally being higher in larger urban areas. The couple should balance their budget with their expectations when choosing someone. 

How To Find an Officiant

Matching couples with officiants isn't usually difficult. In any area, there are many resources to find the right professional for a wedding. Many couples start with a house of worship and referrals from friends and family. Other couples opt to go online and do their own research to find someone. In any case, it is important for officiants and couples to meet and discuss finances, goals and expectations to determine whether they're a good match.

Keeping these things in mind is useful for couples, and people who are interested in becoming wedding officiators. Whether secular or religious, the folks who preside over weddings are an integral part of what makes weddings such joyous and special occasions.