You’re newly engaged. You’re glowing. And suddenly your Google search history is a blur of florals, playlists, guest lists and… officiants?
At some point in your planning, you realize you need someone to legally marry you. And that someone should probably also make the ceremony feel like you. But what does a wedding officiant actually do? And how do you choose the right one?
If you’re feeling unsure or a little overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Let’s clear this up.
What Is a Wedding Officiant?
At the simplest level, a wedding officiant is the person who leads your ceremony and legally signs your marriage license. But if that were all, you could grab your friend’s uncle and call it a day.
A good officiant is so much more than a script reader. We’re part guide, part storyteller, part calm-in-the-storm. We help you create a ceremony that’s legal, yes, but also personal, emotional, and reflective of your love.
What I Actually Do as Your Officiant
1. Help You Clarify Your Vision
Don’t know where to start? Most people don’t. I’ll walk you through what’s required (like license signing and legal wording) and what’s flexible (pretty much everything else).
Together, we’ll shape a ceremony that feels like you — whether that’s heartfelt and cozy, lighthearted and modern, or somewhere in between.
2. Write or Refine Your Ceremony Script
No cookie-cutter scripts here. I’ll write your ceremony from scratch or help you shape the words you already have. You can include readings, family rituals, personal vows, or keep it simple and streamlined. My role is to make sure it feels true to your relationship — not a copy-paste of someone else’s.
3. Support Your Vow-Writing (If Needed)
Writing your vows can be a little intimidating. I offer gentle prompts and simple frameworks that take the pressure off. You can cry while you write them. That part’s normal.
4. Lead the Ceremony with Calm Presence
On your wedding day, you’ll have a lot of emotions moving through you. My job is to hold the space. I speak clearly, warmly, and without theatrics. The vibe? Intimate, grounded, and deeply personal. Whether it’s in a backyard, at a cottage, or in a quiet little art gallery, I’m there to honour your story.
5. Handle the Paperwork
I make sure your license is signed, submitted, and legally valid in Ontario. It’s not the glamorous part, but it matters. And I’ve got it covered.
What Makes Each Officiant Different?
The truth is, anyone can get ordained and read a few lines. But if you want your ceremony to feel like home — to hold space for emotion, connection, and meaning — then it matters who stands beside you.
Here’s what my clients say makes a difference:
- I take the time to know you and your story
- I’m calm, professional, and emotionally attuned (no cheesy jokes or awkward energy)
- I create a ceremony that reflects your values, culture, identity, and vibe
- I’m inclusive, heart-led, and always a safe space for love in all forms
Do You Need a Friend or a Pro?
Some couples ask a friend to officiate. And that can be beautiful. But it also comes with pressure – both for you, and for them. When you work with a professional officiant, you get experience, guidance, and a calm presence who knows how to roll with emotion, nerves, and unexpected rain.
Think of it like this. Your ceremony is the reason everything else is happening. It deserves just as much heart as the reception playlist or the dress or the photo timeline.
If you’re excited about a friend or family member standing up with you as your ceremony speaker, reach out to me about coaching options to help them navigate the responsibility easily & smoothly!
Ready to Create a Ceremony That Feels Like You?
If you’re dreaming of a ceremony that makes you laugh, cry, breathe deep, and feel fully present with the person you love – I’d be honoured to help make that happen.
Whether you’re planning a Durham Region wedding, eloping on a lake, or creating your own unique version of celebration, I’m here to hold the space and bring the story to life.
Let’s chat about what you’re envisioning.
No pressure. Just love.
