Frequently Asked Questions
In which states and communities are you licensed to officiate ceremonies?
Washington, Oregon and Alaska. Other states as requested.
Can we read or hear our ceremony before our wedding day?
Your ceremony is written and delivered electronically prior to your wedding date. Changes will be made to reflect your unique preferences.
May we write our own wedding vows?
Certainly and, upon request, I will assist you in creating them.
Do you have a back up officiant on call, in case of an emergency?
Yes
Do you normally attend the reception?
If the reception and wedding are at the same location, I remain until I am no longer needed. If the reception is located in a place other than the wedding site, I attend dependent upon an invitation from the couple, and usually for a brief time.
How long is the wedding ceremony typically?
The ceremony can be about 15 minutes. Longer ceremonies depend up what couples want included. Custom ceremonies include some of these: honoring someone special who can not be present, lighting the unity candle, blending of sand ceremony, hand fasting, speaking personal vows, blessings of the marriage and/or newly united family. If you request a "short and sweet" wedding ceremony - that is what it will be. If you request a longer ceremony to savor the event, that is what it will be.
Will you marry couples of different faiths or previously divorce?
Yes, I am an interfaith minister and have devoted my work to collaboration and respect for the beliefs of all faith traditions.
How long after the ceremony do you file for the official marriage license?
Your finalized marriage license paperwork is processed within 24 hours of the wedding ceremony.
What kind of pre-marital counseling is required, if any?
No pre-marital counseling is required. Pre-marital counseling is available, upon request.
How many weddings do you officiate a year?
Many. Securing your special date early assures you will have the prime time you want.
How far are you willing to travel? Is there a travel fee?
I am willing to travel to the site of your choice. Mileage fees and travel costs are quoted based on your specific plans.
What is your cancellation policy?
A deposit is required to reserve a wedding date and time. The deposit is non-refundable. I will work with you to determine an alternative date that is mutually agreed and apply the deposit to the new date.
What is your customer satisfication cancellation policy?
If for some reason a customer is not satisfied, I will return any funds paid over the amount of the deposit.
What are your standard payment terms?
The deposit can be made through this website (Fees/PayPal page), brought to my office or mailed to my postal address: P.O. Box 2926, Oak Harbor WA. The deposit holds your date and time.. The balance of the fee, including estimated travel expense is paid anytime on or before the day of the wedding. You may pay the balance by credit or debit card before the wedding date.
What makes you different from other local wedding officiants? Why should someone hire you?
My intention is to serve professionally, ethically and with integrity. I invite the same in our relationship. I appreciate that there are many officiants from which to choose. I am always honored when you select me to work with you to create the wedding ceremony that captures the unique qualities of your relationship. Thank you for inviting me to be with you at this most special time in your lives.
Weddings by Sacred Ceremonies Ministry
360.682.6070 (voice/text)
RevKathleen@sacredceremoniesministry.com
