Who is Your Wedding Minister? Why Does it Matter?

How much difference can one person make in your nuptial celebration?   Does it really matter?  What do you look for in your wedding minister?  How do you find the right one for you?

Like any other professional, they are not all equal.

There are clunkers, normal, and super stars. Ministers have personal characteristics that may be attractive or objectionable. Consider your candidates. Look for qualities of professionalism, public speaking skills, sensitivity, listening, flexibility, and their priorities.

Many couples do not really care who officiates their ceremony for them. They accept the first one available. One might ask, does it really make a difference who officiates?

Is your officiate legally authorized to perform legal weddings? Double check. Make sure they are authorized by your state and ordained or authorized by an appropriate religious or social agency.

Those who officiate represent not only civil authorities, but their own particular religious traditions.

You will want to be sure that they fit your own views of marriage and family.

You may not agree with your leader on every detail of life, but it is important that his expressions concerning your sacred event reflect your own values.

What religious background have you shared, or do you prefer? Look for someone from that tradition. If you prefer Baptist, look for a Baptist minister. If you connect with Methodist, Presbyterian, or other tradition; look for an appropriate guide to communicate your shared faith, hopes, and dreams.

Do you want a minister who comes with his own orthodox ceremony? This can really simplify things for the bride and groom, but limits the amount of creativity and personalization.

Or, you may want a minister who is highly flexible and willing to work with you. You may want a minister who encourages your creativity so your ceremony can be truly personal.

Your whole event depends on your leader. His or Her words express the theme and content of the ceremony, but he/ she does much more. He/ she manages the flow of the ceremony, guides the participants, and facilitates every aspect of the ceremony.

It is extremely helpful and valuable for him/ her to provide personal guidance and encouragement to the wedding couple as he communicates the values, priorities, and commitments of marriage. Your preparation and ceremony should be an educational experience to assist the couple in launching their marriage.

An elegant formal event will require your leader to facilitate stylish ceremony elements, wording, and movements. An informal wedding will require the calm guide to foster a relaxed atmosphere in which participants can be themselves and enjoy the ceremony.

Ultimately, you are in charge. You choose the one that will help you achieve your dream wedding. He/ she manages the legalities, the traditions, and the coordination; but he/ she does so in cooperation with you.

Together you can achieve the kind of celebration you really want with as much personalization as you wish.

Don't leave your special day to chance... I work tirelessly to ensure a stellar reputation. 

Danielle M Baker
www.TheWeddingLady.us

{Credit given to Mile High Ministries for this amazing information!}