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How to Find a Wedding Officiant

Bride and groom holding hands during a wedding ceremony as an officiant reads vows, symbolizing the moment made official by a wedding officiant.

You’ve chosen your wedding date, found the dress, started building your guest list, and maybe even secured your venue. But one important detail often gets overlooked until later in the planning process: who will actually marry you.

If you’ve found yourself asking, “How do I find a wedding officiant?”, you’re not alone. For couples who aren’t affiliated with a specific church or who prefer a more personalized ceremony, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. The good news? With a little planning, it’s easy to find a wedding officiant who aligns with your vision, values, and budget.

Here’s everything you need to know to confidently move forward.

Step #1: Decide on a Religious or Non-Religious Ceremony

Before you begin reaching out to officiants, it’s important to decide what type of ceremony you want.

In Pennsylvania, weddings must be officiated by one of the following:

  • An ordained minister, priest, or rabbi.
  • A judge or justice of the peace.
  • A mayor of a city or borough.

(Please note: online ordinations are not recognized in Pennsylvania.)

If you and your partner share the same faith, or want to incorporate spiritual elements without belonging to a congregation, many venues can recommend experienced officiants who regularly work with couples like you.

If you’re planning a non-religious or civil ceremony, judges, justices of the peace, and mayors are popular options and often offer simple, elegant ceremonies that can still be customized to feel personal.

Some couples choose a largely secular ceremony led by a legal officiant, then add personal vows, readings, or cultural traditions to make it uniquely theirs.

Step #2: Interview Potential Wedding Officiants

The person officiating your wedding plays a meaningful role in one of the most important moments of your life, so this is not a decision to rush.

When meeting with potential officiants, ask yourself:

  • Do they feel confident, warm, and well-spoken?
  • Are they open to customizing the ceremony?
  • Do their tone and values align with yours?
  • Are they comfortable with the length, structure, and level of formality you want?

If you already have a vision (romantic, lighthearted, traditional, or modern) make sure your officiant is comfortable delivering it. And if you’re unsure what to say or how the ceremony should flow, a seasoned officiant can guide you with thoughtful suggestions.

Remember, even though they’re professionals, you should feel completely at ease with them. If it doesn’t feel like the right fit, it’s okay to keep looking.

Step #3: Secure Your Date Early

Once you know your wedding date, make confirming officiant availability a top priority. Popular officiants, especially during peak wedding season, book up quickly.

When reaching out, always start by confirming availability for your date before diving into details. This saves time and helps you avoid disappointment if someone you love is already booked.

How Much Does a Wedding Officiant Cost?

On average, couples can expect to pay:

  • $300-$800 for a professional wedding officiant.
  • $100-$400 for a judge, justice of the peace, or mayor.
  • A donation or honorarium for clergy, often ranging from $200-$500, depending on the congregation.

Costs can vary based on experience, travel, rehearsal attendance, and ceremony customization, so be sure to ask what’s included when discussing pricing.

How to Tip Your Wedding Officiant

Tipping isn’t always required, but it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation—especially if your officiant went above and beyond.

General tipping guidelines:

  • Professional Officiants: Optional, but $50–$150 is customary if you choose to tip.
  • Clergy: A donation to their congregation is typical.
  • Judges or Mayors: Tipping is not expected, but a heartfelt thank-you note is always appreciated.

For a more detailed breakdown, please refer to our helpful tipping guide. 

Choosing the Right Fit Matters

You’ll always remember the person who married you, so take the time to find someone who truly reflects your relationship and sets the tone for your day.

If you’re still asking “How do I find a wedding officiant?”, start with clarity, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts. The right officiant will make your ceremony feel meaningful, seamless, and unmistakably you.

The same process can be used to help find the best venue for your ceremony and reception. 

At PineCrest Country Club, we offer beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for wedding ceremonies and receptions. Our experienced events team is always happy to share trusted vendor recommendations, including officiants.

Contact our special events coordinators to start planning your wedding or call us to book a tour today. Your perfect day starts with PineCrest!