Discovering Non Religious Wedding Officiants And Ceremonies

By Anna Bennett


When it comes to marriage, most couples prefer to have a traditional ceremony based on the faith of the couple. While this is the case, not all ceremonies are religious or spiritual as not all people follow a specific faith. Whereas, some couples may be of different faiths. As a result, non religious wedding officiants are now being asked to perform nuptials at civil unions, commitment ceremonies, hand-fastings and weddings.

One thing all weddings have in common is that the couple are celebrating love while making a commitment. In some cases, this can be a shorter term commitment such as a year and a day in the case of Celtic or pagan hand-fastings. After which, depending on how things have worked out, the individuals can then decide whether or not to move towards a longer term commitment.

Ceremonies whether traditional or otherwise are a celebration of love, honor, respect and trust between those tying the knot, or ribbon in the case of a hand-fasting. In some cases, there may be family traditions and rituals which the individuals will perform during the service, especially in traditional ones. Whereas, others may desire to create new and unique rituals specific to interests shared by the couple.

In many cases, non traditional ceremonies can be just as, if not more beautiful than traditional ones. Whether choosing to be wed at a church, chapel, temple, synagogue or other location, the most important aspect is the bride and groom are happy with the event. In addition, it is important that the individuals choose whether to use traditional vows, or write custom ones. In most cases, couples will now choose to use a combination of self-authored vows while using a traditional background when it comes to readings by the officiant.

One of the most important aspects of either a traditional or non traditional ceremony is choosing the appropriate officiant. For, there are religious and secular individuals whom have been ordained which can officiate at memorials, weddings and provide spiritual counseling. In most cases, those working in the secular world have become ordained through organizations such as the Universal Life Church or similar organizations which offer instant ordination by filling out a form on an associated website.

In some cases, couples prefer to ask someone close in heart to provide this service. In fact, a number of individuals will become ordained just to officiate at a friend or family member's ceremony. Whereas, others may choose to locate an officiant whom provides inter-faith and secular services on an ongoing basis.

If planning a themed ceremony, most officiants are willing to adapt to a number of different characters and roles. In most cases, wedding planners will include the cost of any special ministerial attire into the overall cost of the wedding. Whereas, it is important that when doing so to also pick a venue in line with the theme.

Whether hosting a local or destination, traditional, non-traditional or themed event, it is essential to book the officiant and venue well in advance of the ceremony. For, in some cases, there can often be several months to a year or more wait to book popular destinations and locations, especially those related to specific themes.




About the Author: