Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter what religion each of us are or are not?
No. I serve you in a way that brings joy to your day. I've conducted wedding ceremonies where the couples were Catholic/Muslim, Agnostic/Lutheran, Baptist/No Faith, Spiritual/Presbyterian. I work with the couple to blend the traditions as much as they wish. I am just as comfortable serving you in the manner that helps you live out your own spiritual experience, whether devoutly Christian, Jewish, Muslim, purely spiritual or Agnostic.
Can we have a non-religious, spiritual wedding ceremony?
This is your choice. Most prefer a "spiritual" and not "religious" ceremony. It is your wedding and my goal is to officiate the ceremony that is right for you. You may find that what you desire is in line with what most other couples that come to me desire – reverent, special, spiritual, and pleasing to the parents without being too "over the top" in terms of religiosity.
Can we have a wedding ceremony that includes elements of different religions and religious traditions? Yes! These make for interesting, rich, meaningful wedding ceremonies. I have conducted ceremonies that blend religions, working with you and your various traditions to put together a ceremony that truly reflects your wishes.
Are there any prerequisites for using you as our wedding officiant, such as counseling?
No premarital counseling is necessary and people do not have to share my beliefs in order for me to conduct their ceremony.
Does it matter that either of us have been married before, divorced, or have children?
No. Many of the couples I've married are on their second or third marriage. If there are children involved, I often include them in the ceremony. They are recognized and vows are taken to them as well. Read more about my wedding ceremony basics.
Can we write our own vows or make changes to your basic wedding ceremony?
Absolutely! I encourage you to personalize your ceremony as much as you wish.
What do you wear when officiating weddings?
Usually I wear a suit and tie when I officiate, but many couples want something that is in line specifically in with their theme or style, so I do have other ensembles as well. To see some of the outfits that I've worn for weddings in the past, click here.
What are your fees for officiating a wedding ceremony?
My ceremony officiating fee is $375. The fee for the rehearsal, if you choose to have one, is $150. There may be additional fees for travel as well, depending on where your wedding ceremony will be held (I am local to Pittsburgh, PA) There is some flexibility in the price if you are marrying at an off-peak time such as Monday through Thursday. Please contact me for further details.
How is the booking of my wedding handled?
You are booked when I receive a deposit of 50% of the total fee. The balance must be paid at least one month in advance of the scheduled wedding.
Can we pay the entire balance when we book to get it out of the way?
Yes. The balance is due at least one month before your wedding day.
How far in advance should I confirm a wedding officiant?
The sooner the better. Sometimes I am booked a year in advance, so do not delay!
What about last minute requests?
If I have room in my schedule, and I happy to try to accommodate you. I have done many weddings on short notice, and we were able to work through the details without any difficulties and have a wonderful ceremony. Call me as soon as you can and I will do my best to fit you in.
Do we need a marriage license?
If you are having both the legal (civil) and spiritual (religious) marriage, yes, you must get a wedding license. For more information regarding Pennsylvania marriage licenses, click here. For information about marriage licenses in Allegheny County, click here. If you are already married and are looking to renew your vows with a first time style, a marriage license is not required.
Dear Larry -
Thank you so much for everything you did to make our day so special. Everyone commented on how nice the ceremony was. We appreciate all of your hard work and time. If you ever need anything, just let us know.
- Sincerely, Richard & Denise Porter
