The Marry Men’s Guide to Choosing Your Wedding Officiant: What to Look for Beyond a License
Finding the perfect wedding officiant is one of the most crucial steps in wedding planning, yet it’s often an afterthought. Many couples start with the venue and the dress, but the person standing between you as you say your vows is what sets the tone for the entire day. At The Marry Men, we believe your officiant should be more than just a legal necessity—they should be a professional who elevates your ceremony from a formality to a heartfelt, personalized masterpiece.
So, beyond checking to see if they’re legally licensed, what should you look for? Here’s our insider guide to choosing the best wedding officiant for your big day, based on years of experience telling love stories across the Greater Toronto Area.
1. The Storyteller, Not Just the Speaker
A great officiant is a professional storyteller. They don’t just read a generic script; they listen to your journey and craft a narrative that feels authentically yours. In our initial consultations, we’re not just collecting data; we’re hearing the details of your relationship—the funny moments, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the dreams you share.
When you’re interviewing potential officiants, ask them about their process for creating a ceremony script. Do they send you a generic template to fill out, or do they want to sit down and have a real conversation with you? Do they incorporate anecdotes and personal details into the script? Our clients consistently say that this personal touch made all the difference, making their ceremony feel intimate even in front of a large crowd.
2. The Professional Performer
Confidence in public speaking is non-negotiable. Your officiant is essentially the emcee for the most important part of your day. You want someone who is comfortable, engaging, and has a strong stage presence. Our co-founders, Jason and Michael, bring backgrounds in the performing arts, theatre, and broadcast journalism to every ceremony.
We know how to project our voices, maintain a calm presence, and connect with everyone in attendance. During your consultation, pay attention to how they present themselves. Do they seem at ease? Are they good listeners? A great officiant will also be a great guide during the ceremony itself, directing your bridal party, making sure you’re positioned correctly for photos, and handling any unexpected hiccups with grace.
3. The Flexibility to Embrace Your Vision
Your wedding ceremony should be a reflection of your values, beliefs, and personalities. A truly great officiant is flexible and open-minded. Whether you’re planning a multi-faith ceremony, a non-religious celebration, or a quirky, geeky-themed wedding, your officiant should be excited to bring your vision to life.
Ask them about their experience with different types of ceremonies. Are they comfortable with cultural traditions, unity rituals like a sand or handfasting ceremony, or couples who want to write their own vows? At The Marry Men, we proudly celebrate all love and are committed to inclusivity, serving the 2SLGBTQIA+ community with joy and pride. We are licensed to perform single-faith, multi-faith, and non-religious ceremonies, as well as civil unions and vow renewals.
4. The Reliable Partner
Planning a wedding can be stressful, and the last thing you need is to worry about your officiant. Look for someone who is organized, punctual, and communicative. Do they respond to your emails in a timely manner? Do they have a clear process for booking and payment? Do they offer premarital counselling or help with writing your vows?
We believe in a professional, no-stress approach. From our initial free consultation to the final signing of your marriage license, we handle every detail with care. As one review from a client named S. Sarah said, “Michael and Jason are absolute gems! We met them twice before the wedding, and they were so lovely and funny. I did not even want to have a ceremony at first, but surprisingly, they made it the most memorable part of our day.”
Your wedding ceremony is the beginning of your “happily ever after.” Don’t leave it to chance. Choose an officiant who is not only a licensed professional but also a storyteller, a performer, and a true partner in making your day magical. At The Marry Men, we’re ready to tell your story and help you create a moment you will cherish forever.
About The Marry Men Wedding Officiants
The Marry Men Wedding Officiants are Jason and Michael, a dedicated duo committed to crafting personalized, one-of-a-kind ceremonies for every couple. With backgrounds in event coordination, journalism, and the performing arts, we bring a unique blend of professionalism, passion, and storytelling to your special day.
We proudly serve couples of all faiths, backgrounds, and orientations, believing that every love story deserves to be celebrated. Find more about our journey and services at our website, www.themarrymen.ca, and follow us on Instagram @themarrymen. Read our glowing reviews on Google Business and Wedding Wire to hear from our incredible couples. We are also proud to have shared our expertise in the last 9 issues of Today’s Bride magazine.