FAQ's & Tips
What do you mean by customized ceremonies? We mean that every word we say and everything we do is determined by you. We send you a standard ceremony by fax, email, or in person and you can add or subtract anything you wish. Prayers, blessings, or just your favorite sayings or passages. It is fully customizable.
Where do I get my marriage license and how long is it valid? You must go to the courthouse in the county where you live and apply. You cannot get married for the first 72 hours and it is valid for 30 calendar days total. The 72 hours is waived for active military personnel and for those who have completed a state marriage class.
Do we need to sign the license and have witnesses for the ceremony? No, Texas does not require anything from you once you get the license and witnesses are not required either. You get the license to us, either before or at the ceremony and we sign it and forward it to the courthouse, they record it and mail it back to your address.
Where do we get the Unity Candle, Sand Ceremony Items, Roses, or Lassos? Locally we recommend Michael Allen's Flowers in McAllen. The products and services they offer are outstanding. These items are customized and you must make sure to get them right away to allow plenty of time for delivery before your ceremony.
What happens if my officiant has a last minute emergency? Obviously, in life these things happen from time to time. An unexpected illness or emergency can ordinarily derail a ceremony. The good thing about us is we have many officiants on staff and will find someone to fill in without a problem, even last minute, so your ceremony continues without interruption.
___________________________________________________
Once you have established a date, time and place for your wedding, it’s time to look for a wedding officiant.
Booking your officiant: Start looking early as the best officiants, like the best vendors, tend to get booked quickly. We suggest that you meet/interview your potential wedding officiant before hiring them to officiate your wedding. Fees for officiants can vary widely from $150 to $400 or more, so know exactly what you are paying for.
Officiant professionalism: An officiant should always return your calls, answer your e-mails, and be available to you for all your needs. They should also be at your ceremony early to go over things and make sure there are no problems. An officiant should have no problem giving you references. If they do, don't walk...run away!
Customization: See how much control your officiant allows you over your ceremony. Does your officiant insist on a religious ceremony? Are you getting a “fixed text” wedding – that is “word for word” style ceremony that is read to every couple? Will your officiant help with advice in writing your own vows? In giving you suggestions for readings and ceremony ideas?
Rehearsals and Weather: Don't pay extra for a rehearsal for the officiant if you don't have to, we know what we are doing and can step in without hesitation. Try to have a plan B here in the valley. The weather can turn your sunny ceremony into a rainy nightmare. Know where you can go if it rains.
Cost Effective Locations: Consider having your wedding at your home or the home of a family member or friend. You can still have the same elegance as elsewhere without the hassle and you can celebrate all night long. Consider a restaurant you love for maximum seating, or a park where you can rent a tent. A public event or arena is always fun...the 7th inning stretch at a ballgame...or even halftime at a hockey game! Have fun and good luck.
I Do 4 U Weddings
(956) 802-7408
