Weddings

My Service as your Maine Wedding Officiant

Photo Credit: Kara Waller

As a Maine wedding officiant, my work goes far beyond simply overseeing a couple as they exchange vows.  I am a Maine Notary Public.  People often refer to me as a Justice of the Peace, or “JP”, but the title is a misconception.  In the 1980’s, the State of Maine transferred the duties of Justices of the Peace over to Notaries Public.  This transfer is what allows Maine Notaries to perform wedding ceremonies when in most states, Notaries are not given this authority.

First, let’s be clear about the distinction between marriages, commitment ceremonies and elopements, as a Maine wedding officiant is frequently called upon to provide all of these services.

A Maine marriage is an official and legal ceremony conducted after two people (regardless of gender) have obtained a Maine marriage license.  The union of marriage can only be dissolved through the court or by the death of one partner.  Elopements fall within the category of Maine marriages.

A commitment ceremony is not legally binding. No marriage license is obtained. It is a verbal promise between two individuals but is not recognized by any governmental entity.  Vow renewals fall within the category of commitment ceremonies.

With the exception of elopements, my Maine wedding officiant fees include all of the following:

  1. Unlimited phone calls and emails between us
  2. Initial meeting (if you choose to schedule one)
  3. My time to write your ceremony and to revise or rewrite it as many times as it takes to make it perfect
  4. My attendance at your wedding and rehearsal (if you choose to have one)
  5. My guaranteed early-arrival at both events (10 minutes early for rehearsal and 30 minutes early for the wedding, more if necessary)
  6. Facilitation with your vendors prior to the ceremony (photographers, wedding planners, musicians)
  7. Preparation of the members in your wedding party prior to the ceremony
  8. Color coordination of my attire to compliment your wedding colors
  9. Performance of your marriage or commitment ceremony
  10. Signing of all required paperwork
  11. A keepsake marriage certificate suitable for framing
  12. A keepsake copy of your wedding ceremony script
  13. Hand delivery of your marriage license by me personally to the appropriate town office
  14. Unlimited lifetime unattested copies of your marriage license
  15. Maintenance of proper records regarding your marriage