Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do we obtain a marriage license?

The information you need is available to you either through myself (I can provide you with a hard copy by mail/in person) or you may go to www.usmarriagelaws.com and click on “Pennsylvania”. Everything you need to know is there. One thing to keep in mind—some counties have a three-day waiting period prior to the wedding, so please do not wait until the day before the ceremony to secure your marriage license.

2. Who processes the Marriage License?

It is the responsibility of the Minister/Officiant/Justice of the Peace, etc., to process the marriage license that consists of three parts. One portion is retained by the individual performing your ceremony (again the Minister/Officiant, etc.), one portion is given to the couple being married; and one portion is to be returned to the County Clerk's office where the license was obtained within a ten day period. Again, this is the responsibility of the Minister/Officiant, etc.

3. Why is the deposit non-refundable?

Generally, even before I receive a deposit, I have already performed work on behalf of the couple inquiring about my services (interview, paperwork, scheduling, etc.), and I have discovered the hard way, that I turned down accepting ceremony bookings on the same day and/or time to have a couple change their mind or cancel their commitment. A deposit also assures me you are serious about your commitment to retain my services, and in fairness to all parties, I have had to institute this policy and appreciate your understanding in this regard.

4. What does the Officiant wear to our ceremony?

One option is a minister’s robe that is white and formal or you may choose a more informal option of an appropriate and tasteful dress that will somewhat coordinate with the bridesmaids.

5. Are we obligated to invite you to the reception?

Although it is very much appreciated and an honor to be asked, I generally will briefly stay after the ceremony if you would like photos taken with the minister, but will then return home to relax after having enjoyed your ceremony!

6. Are we required to take classes or have pre-marital counseling?

I am available to you for pastoral counseling if you feel you would benefit from my assistance. However, it is my belief that you are both mature adults that have made this important decision with a great deal of thought and deliberation and understand the commitment you are now about to undertake.

7. How are your fees established? Why travel expense?

The fees are based on several considerations. First, is the amount of time and effort that has gone into establishing my wedding ministry. Second, is that the packages have been created to give you a variety of choices with varying degrees of interaction with me, as well as pricing options (everyone has a budget!) The simpler the ceremony, the fee reflects this accordingly, as well as a customized option takes a great deal more time and work—again reflected in the Fee Schedule. You will also notice that I have two options for wedding rehearsals—my attendance and management of your rehearsal or an option to provide you with all the information you need to assign a friend or family member to run and/or manage the rehearsal. It is truly my intention to be a “full service” wedding ministry, taking many options and choices into consideration for the benefit of the couple.

Travel expenses are customary in our profession. Some ministers will charge for travel time. For example, if it takes 45 minutes to get to your wedding site, they will charge a fee appropriate to the time expended to get to your site and return. I choose the mileage option, because it is more economical. Again, for example, if your site is 30 miles from my home, the charge is $60.00 roundtrip. If this charge were based on time, it might take me 50 minutes to travel 30 miles! The mileage option is a more economical choice for you.