St Louis Wedding Officiant Frequently Asked Questions
What is your price?
My fee is based on distance from my home and averages $140 to $200.
A separate fee is added if you want me at the rehearsal.
I also perform the ceremony, attend the rehearsal, AND coordinate the ceremony which is the Super Liaison package.
I am having an Intimate Wedding. Is the cost the same?
The cost to perform your wedding is not based on the number of guests or the length of the ceremony.
It is based on the distance and time it takes for me to arrive and perform the ceremony.
No matter how short and sweet the ceremony is.
I perform weddings from 2 to 200+ people.
What are the minimum requirements?
In most cases, you must provide a Marriage License and two witnesses, but you do not have to know them.
Be sure to Check My Availability using my calendar.
We must talk on the phone (314-821-4844) to check the date, time and location.
My fee is based on distance from my home and averages $140 to $200.
A separate fee is added if you want me at the rehearsal.
I also perform the ceremony, attend the rehearsal, AND coordinate the ceremony which is the Super Liaison package.
I am having an Intimate Wedding. Is the cost the same?
The cost to perform your wedding is not based on the number of guests or the length of the ceremony.
It is based on the distance and time it takes for me to arrive and perform the ceremony.
No matter how short and sweet the ceremony is.
I perform weddings from 2 to 200+ people.
What are the minimum requirements?
In most cases, you must provide a Marriage License and two witnesses, but you do not have to know them.
Be sure to Check My Availability using my calendar.
We must talk on the phone (314-821-4844) to check the date, time and location.
Do you book weddings or elopements at the last minute?
Yes, it is based on availability.
The words of the ceremony will be chosen for you; if booked less than 14 days.
They are considered secular (non-religious), short and sweet.
You may recite your own vows if you wish.
What if we don't have a location?
I have tons of resources, but I do not have my own location.
Here are a few ideas. I am happy to give you advice over the phone.
Elopement Locations | Pop Up or Off Beat | Pinterest Boards
Do we have to meet before the ceremony?
We are not required to meet in person.
If we do, you come to my home in Kirkwood.
The meeting may last up to 30 minutes.
What happens once we get our Marriage License?
Read this great article on my BLOG
Do you have reviews and images that I can look at?
Go to..... Wedding Wire | Portfolio | Super Liaison Reviews | The Knot | Elopement
Can we write our own vows?
Absolutely! OR I also provide a list of vows that are used in a 'repeat after me' format.
Yes, it is based on availability.
The words of the ceremony will be chosen for you; if booked less than 14 days.
They are considered secular (non-religious), short and sweet.
You may recite your own vows if you wish.
What if we don't have a location?
I have tons of resources, but I do not have my own location.
Here are a few ideas. I am happy to give you advice over the phone.
Elopement Locations | Pop Up or Off Beat | Pinterest Boards
Do we have to meet before the ceremony?
We are not required to meet in person.
If we do, you come to my home in Kirkwood.
The meeting may last up to 30 minutes.
What happens once we get our Marriage License?
Read this great article on my BLOG
Do you have reviews and images that I can look at?
Go to..... Wedding Wire | Portfolio | Super Liaison Reviews | The Knot | Elopement
Can we write our own vows?
Absolutely! OR I also provide a list of vows that are used in a 'repeat after me' format.
What is a short, sweet and simple ceremony?
The ceremony is basically in four parts.
1) Opening Words
2) Question of Intention (where you answer I DO)
3) Exchange of Rings and Vows
4) Closing Words / Pronouncement
The ceremony is mostly secular or non-religious with the option to add readings, scripture, prayer.
You can symbolize your union with things like:
unity candle, sand/glass crystal ceremony, wine ceremony, roses to mothers, hand-fasting, even a tree ceremony if you want..
Do you come to the rehearsal?
Most of the time I do not attend a rehearsal, but I can. (Requires a retainer fee.)
Check to see if your venue has a coordinator to run a rehearsal.
If you have a large wedding party (grandparents, parents, attendants) walking down the aisle, it would be WISE to have me there too.
We are required to rehearse over the phone 24-48 hours before the event.
Hire me to Officiate AND Coordinate the Ceremony.
Rehearsal and ceremony coordination is included in this package.
Is there a deposit to hold the date? Do you have an agreement?
In most cases, my fee is due in CASH when I arrive, so there is no deposit or retainer fee.
For the Officiant Plus Rehearsal Package, there is a specific payment plan to follow.
You are required to fill out a Confirmation Form and I respond with an Email Confirmation.
The Email Confirmation is considered our agreement.
For the Coordination package , there is a retainer fee and paper agreement.
Do you need a microphone for my guests to hear you better?
If your wedding is outdoors and you have more than 40 guests I recommend audio for the officiant.
I have an amplifier and a wireless microphone on a stand that I can rent to you for a $40 fee.
If your wedding has more than 100 guests, I recommend a professional sound system from a DJ or audio company.
What do you wear at the ceremony?
I usually wear a black pants outfit, but not a robe.
What can we do to make the ceremony last longer?
You can add parts to the ceremony like a reading, scripture or prayer.
We discuss these details on the phone.
You can symbolize your union with a unity candle, sand, roses to mothers etc.
These choices to add MUST be discussed and approved by Carolyn Burke.
What happens if you become unavailable due to illness or conflict?
In the 13+ years of performing ceremonies, I have needed to find a substitute only a few times.
Depending on the circumstances, I provide a substitute to perform the same ceremony or you have the option to find someone else.
Do you have any special deals or features?
If you come to Kirkwood, MO my fee is $50.
See Elope in Kirkwood for more information.
I live in Kirkwood and can help you find a location such as a park or restaurant that will accommodate your style and capacity.
I can also coordinate your wedding ceremony.
Contact Us for more information on my services.
