OfficiantPDX.com
How did you become a Wedding Officiant?
In 2010, I took a break from my job as a corporate attorney to spend more time with my daughters, and through a new moms' group in Brooklyn, I met the founder of Officiant NYC, Kim Worley. We became fast friends (as did our kids), and I soon joined Kim in performing wedding ceremonies throughout New York City and California, before relocating to Portland with my family. I truly enjoy what I do, and it's kept me very busy -- in the last year alone, I officiated close to 40 wedding ceremonies.
How do we work together to create a customized wedding ceremony?
Each couple is unique, but generally, we first meet in person to discuss what you have in mind for your ceremony (and it's okay if you're not sure where to start -- that's what I'm here for). We will talk about the different elements of the wedding ceremony, and your initial thoughts on those elements that do and don't work for you. We will also discuss various unity ceremonies, possible readings, and the many different ways to incorporate your traditions, friends, family and/or children into your ceremony. Once I have collected your feedback, I will draft your ceremony and send you a copy via email within two weeks. We'll then work together to further refine and edit your ceremony so that it's exactly what you want, with the goal to finalize your ceremony no later than one month prior to your wedding. There is no limit to the number of times we can speak, meet or email during this process!
What if we're from out-of-town, and we are unable to meet you in person?
If you are from out-of-town, and an in-person meeting is not possible, I am happy to speak with you over the phone or via Skype as many times as necessary to make sure your ceremony is perfect.
Do you perform same-sex ceremonies?
Yes! Nearly one third of the ceremonies that I have performed have been for same-sex couples. June 26, 2015, was a historic day in our country, and I welcome the opportunity to be a part of the growing national movement to extend the same rights enjoyed by different-sex couples, to our LGBT friends and family through the celebration of their wedding vows and beyond.
What are your rates?
Please see my Ceremonies & Rates page for more information.
Do you book more than one wedding on a single day?
No, I do not.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, I require a $100 deposit to secure the date of your wedding which can be paid via PayPal, by personal check, or by cash in person.
When is the balance due?
The balance is due upon completion of your ceremony on the day of your wedding.
Generally, I arrive 30 minutes to an hour prior to the ceremony, though this can be altered to fit the specific needs of your wedding.
When will you arrive at our ceremony?
Do you conduct a rehearsal?
For most of the weddings I officiate, I do not conduct the rehearsal, but subject to my availability, I am happy to do so for an additional $100 fee.
Is the fee for my marriage license included in your rates?
No. For example, the fee for an Oregon marriage license issued by Multnomah County is $60, paid in cash or by certified funds, due at the time your license is issued. However, the fee amount and the types of payment accepted may vary by county, so please check with the county in which you plan to obtain your marriage license.
How do we apply for our marriage license?
Please see the following websites for information about obtaining your marriage license from certain counties in Oregon:
Multnomah County, OR (including how to begin your application online):
https://web.multco.us/recording/marriage-licenses
Washington County, OR:
http://www.co.washington.or.us/AssessmentTaxation/MarriageLicenses/requirements.cfm
Clackamas County, OR:
http://www.clackamas.us/recording/marriage.html
Yamhill County, OR:
http://www.co.yamhill.or.us/content/marriage-licenses
Please be aware that unless you obtain a waiver, an Oregon marriage license requires 3 days to mature, and expires 60 days after it is issued. This means that there must be at least 3 days between the time you are issued your marriage license and your ceremony, and that your ceremony must take place within 60 days of when you obtain your marriage license.
Please see the following link for more information if you are obtaining your marriage license in Clark County, WA:
http://www.clark.wa.gov/auditor/marriage.html
Please be aware that Washington State also requires a 3-day waiting period between the issuance of your marriage license and your wedding. However, this waiting period cannot be waived in Clark County.
What if I need to have my ceremony in Oregon sooner than 3 days after my marriage license is issued?
You may be able to obtain a waiver in OR. For example, the 3-day waiting period may be waived in Multnomah County, but the waiver must be requested at the time the marriage license is issued. In addition, effective January 6, 2014, a $5.00 fee to process a waiver will be charged in addition to the $60.00 marriage license fee in Multnomah County. The fees to waive the 3-day waiting period vary by county, so please be sure to check with the county in which you plan to obtain your marriage license.
Do we both have to go in person to obtain our marriage license?
Yes. Whether you complete the marriage license application online, or in the County Office, both spouses must appear together in person to sign the marriage license at the time it is issued. In addition, both of you must have a valid picture I.D. in the name that is entered on the marriage license application.
What if we obtained our marriage license in one county in Oregon, but we are getting married in another county? What if we obtained our marriage license in one county in Washington, but we are getting married in another county?
A marriage license issued by any county in Oregon or in Washington is valid throughout that particular state. However, your wedding must take place in the state in which your marriage license was issued.
Do we need witnesses for our ceremony?
Yes, two persons are required to witness your ceremony (age requirements vary, so please check with the county and state in which you plan to obtain your marriage license). If you are eloping and do not expect to have two witnesses attend your ceremony, I am happy to provide one or two witnesses for an additional fee.
FAQs
