We have before us the celebration of a civil wedding ceremony, a symbolic act, an event that usually provokes many emotions, something unique, that is only going to be celebrated once in your life and that once it is over will produce the sincere congratulations of your guests. Perhaps a friend celebrant could add personal touch to your ceremony.
Advantages and disadvantages of having a friend or family member officiate the ceremony. A friend celebrant might uniquely understand your needs.
Advantages:
He/she knows you well and will easily understand your wishes.
The cost is low, as there is no budget to worry about.
This adventure will strengthen your bond.
It is a strong sign of recognition, just like asking someonea friend celebrant close to you to be a witness.
Disadvantages:
Your friend or family member will need to have a talent for writing and good public speaking skills to bring their ceremony to life.
Helping to design the ceremony will take up your time.
You will have fewer surprises and less spontaneity on the big day because you will have to supervise the script.
Your friend celebrant will not enjoy the ceremony as much as the rest of the guests.
He/she will not have the experience of a professional.
They may have to deal with stress and pressure, especially when unforeseen events arise.
If your friend is known to the guests, everyone will know that your friend celebrant is not a judge or councillor and congratulations will be less than sincere.
To take into account:
Does your friend or relative accept this role wholeheartedly or is it a polite ‘yes’ and dare not refuse the commitment you have put them into?
Does he/she want to be as involved as you would like and does he/she have the time to do so?
Does the motivation of your friend celebrant or relative match the expectations of the bride and groom?
Advantages and disadvantages of having a professional officiate your ceremony.
Advantages: The officiant has experience: he/she can make suggestions depending on the bride and groom, number of guests, surprises…. The officiant, thanks to his experience, can deal with any unforeseen event that may occur in a ceremony: bridal bouquet forgotten, rings forgotten in the room, important guests delayed, guests who have not arrived and were expected in the readings…. He is a writer and is good at public speaking, so he will know how to move the guests and give meaning to your messages. He will dedicate the necessary time to ensure that the script of the ceremony is to your liking. He will relieve you of all the hassle of organising the ceremony and you can rely on him. In most cases a rehearsal is offered the day(s) before. |
Disadvantages: The budget for this type of service. To bear in mind: – Consult with 2 or 3 officiants to see which one best suits your tastes and preferences, don’t just ask for a quote, but talk to them, even if it is by video call. |