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Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Your wedding ceremony is important to me and it should be everything you’ve ever dreamed of. What are you envisioning? Do you desire a non-denominational, non-traditional, spiritual, modern, or interfaith wedding ceremony? What are your beliefs? I do honor all faiths. Whatever your heart desires, we can make it happen. It’s your day and it’s all about the two of you! I do recommend family members or friends get involved, such as reading a poem, Bible verses, or something that is special for the two of you. If you have children, I recommend that they get involved as well. Let’s work on this together and create a wedding ceremony that is beautiful, special, and unique just for the two of you! Memories last a lifetime!

 

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD I BOOK MY WEDDING CEREMONY?

 

Book at least 6 months to a year in advance to save-the-date. It takes time to create a beautiful ceremony and once you say you “love” your wedding ceremony put it away. Save it for your wedding day when you finally look into the eyes of each other and say “I DO.”

 

HOW DO WE BEGIN THE PROCESS OF CREATING THE WEDDING CEREMONY?

 

I will start with sending you a questionnaire once I receive your deposit which is half of the total fee.

 

CAN WE MEET WITH YOU ON A PERSONAL BASIS AND OFFER PERSONAL CONSULTATION?

 

Yes, of course, and I encourage it. However, I must say I have not met 90% of the couples that I have united until the wedding day itself.

 

WHAT TIME WILL YOU ARRIVE MY MY VENUE?

 

Approximately 30 minutes prior to your ceremony.

 

WILL YOU COORDINATE MY CEREMONY WITH MY DJ, VIDEOGRAPHER, AND WEDDING PLANNER IF NEEDED?

 

Yes, I would be happy to and I encourage it so that your ceremony will flow smoothly.

 

DO YOU HAVE A MICROPHONE FOR MY WEDDING CEREMONY?

 

No, I do not. Most DJ’s or bands provide this to you from my experience of officiating past wedding ceremonies.

 

ARE YOU ABLE TO RECOMMEND ANY VENDORS TO ME?

 

Yes, as I do work with many professional vendors.

 

WHAT DO YOU WEAR?

 

I wear professional black attire. If a religious ceremony I offer to wear a religious sash. (See photo).

 

WHAT DO YOUR FEES START AT?

 

Fees start at $250.00 up to $800.00 depending on the type of wedding and location. Travel fees are included. (see fee page).

 

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING MY MARRIAGE LICENSE?

 

You are to obtain your marriage license. There is a 24-hour waiting period before you are able to marry and a 30-day deadline thereafter. If you are marrying in New Orleans, I am able to waive your 24-hour waiting period. You bring your marriage license with you on your wedding day. Designate someone to have that delivered to me at your wedding and I will prepare it for your signatures before the ceremony, during, or immediately after your ceremony before photos.

 

http://www.cityapplications.com/marriage-licenses/LA-Louisiana/mrg-Louisiana.html

 

How To Apply for an Orleans Parish Marriage License – Louisiana …

 

http://new.dhh.louisiana.gov/index.cfm/page/644

 

DO I ATTEND REHEARSALS?

 

I will attend rehearsals if you’d like, but from past experience, I have found that it is not necessary. Most wedding venues have coordinators and do not need the officiant present. When I arrive at your venue, your coordinator informs me where I will stand, or when I will walk out. That’s it! I say, save your money. If you want me there I will attend rehearsals Monday – Thursday for an additional fee for time travel, and mileage. Call for quote. I do offer phone rehearsals at no extra charge where we will go over all the steps of your ceremony so that you will feel at ease and seize the moment when you say “I DO.”

 

DO I PERFORM BAPTISMS?

 

Yes, I do. You may want to consider baptizing your baby or children after you are pronounced husband and wife before family and friends, adding such a very special moment for all.

 

DO I PERFORM WEDDING CEREMONIES FOR THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY?

 

Yes, of course, I do. I am happy to perform your wedding ceremony!

 

DO I KNOW OF A PHOTOGRAPHER THAT IS REASONABLE FOR MY ELOPEMENT OR SMALL WEDDING?

 

Yes. Visit ariellenphotography.com Photos are edited naturally and then placed in an online gallery for your convenience. Call or email for additional information.

Wedding Officiants In New Orleans, Baton Rouge & Surrounding Areas - Magnolia Ceremonies