Questions and Answers

 

Are you licensed to perform wedding ceremonies?

Yes, I am a commissioned Notary in good standing in the State of Florida.

 

What is your affiliation or denomination?

As a Notary, I am non-denominational allowing me to provide the most versatile service to my couples. I am comfortable in both religious and non-religious settings and acknowledge and welcome all faiths and beliefs.

 

How would you describe yourself as an officiant?

I am professional, warm and friendly. The wishes of my couples are always my top priority. I pay meticulous attention to all the little details to make sure your ceremony is just perfect, creating a celebration of love and togetherness. I am patient and sensitive and very good at smoothing out the little unexpected bumps that may occur, calmly and efficiently!

What types of ceremonies have you performed?

I have provided services to couples from all walks of life. Large, formal affairs with hundreds of guests, to intimate ceremonies where it was just the bride and groom and myself. Renewals of wedding vows and commitment ceremonies, as well as situations where the bride and groom may have previously eloped and are already legally married, but want to have a formal wedding ceremony in front of their family and friends. This is a very common scenario for couples who are in the armed services. No worries… I am great at keeping a secret! I have performed short and sweet civils, serious religious ceremonies, interfaith weddings that combine the traditions of several different faiths, ceremonies that include children, just to name a few… and of course, the most popular… where the bride and groom want a lighthearted, customized ceremony that reflects their personalities with a touch of spirituality, grace and humor.

 

What are the steps to retaining you as our officiant?

First, simply call me at (941) 544-1230 or email me at mswally007@aol.com with the date, time and location of your ceremony, at which time I will be able to tell you if I am available to officiate your ceremony. All of our contact would be by phone and/or e-mail and I am completely comfortable with this method of planning. If you do decide to retain me as your officiant, I require a deposit to “officially” reserve the date and time. The balance can be paid prior to your wedding day.

How long is the wedding ceremony?

It’s completely up to you. My average ceremony runs about 15-20 minutes, but will depend alot on what you would like to include. You are always welcome to include readings or songs done by friends or family members, special acts of celebration such as a Sand Ceremony or Candle Lighting, in which case, the ceremony would of course, be a bit longer. I am very much about my couples and am happy to create a ceremony that really reflects the two of you.

 

Can we write our own vows?

Absolutely. Your vows are your words of love and commitment to each other, and are one of the most important aspects of your ceremony.

 

We both have children from previous relationships. Can we include our children in the ceremony?

Of course. There are a number of ways to include your children in your wedding ceremony. The Family Sand Ceremony is a wonderful and fun way to include your children, without putting too much pressure on them or making them feel awkward. You can also incorporate vows that you say to your children, committing to love them as their parents, and even present them with a gift like a necklace, ring or bracelet.

 

What do you usually say during the ceremony?

That is completely up to you. There are a number of ceremonies and vows to choose from. I don’t have any specific requirements on what needs to be said during the ceremony.. that is completely up to the two of you. We have all heard horror stories about officiants who felt compelled to use the couple’s ceremony as a forum to express their own opinions or beliefs, much to the bride and groom’s shock and surprise. If you retain me as your officiant, you can be assured that your ceremony will be exactly the way you want it. I stick to the script that you have chosen which will help you relax and thoroughly enjoy your day.

 

What do you usually wear at the ceremony?

My wardrobe varies, depending on the location and weather, however I always dress neatly and conservatively so as not to detract from the two of you. I do not wear ceremonial robes, albs or other religious clothing. l will wear a dress suit for a more formal wedding ceremony, and a more casual attire for a more casual beach wedding.

What about the rehearsal?

My attendance at your rehearsal, although sometimes requested, is not required. My role is very straightforward. For more formal weddings, the wedding coordinator will take care of gettting everyone in place and ready to walk down the aisle. Beach weddings or small ceremonies do not require a rehearsal, due to their more casual approach. I will arrive at your ceremony 1/2 hour prior so I can take care of any last minute details or direction that needs to be made.

 

Where and when do we purchase our Marriage License?

You must obtain your Marriage License at any County Clerk’s office in the State of Florida, but no more than 60 days prior to your wedding date. You can obtain your marriage license from any County in Florida and I can marry you anywhere in Florida.

Do I have to give you the marriage license prior to our ceremony?

Yes.  I am unable to follow through with performing the ceremony without an original marriage license.  This must be given to me upon my arrival for the ceremony.

 

Do you offer any other service?

Yes, I am also a wedding DJ. The name of my company is DJ Littlebit.  It can be difficult to pull together all the details for your wedding day, especially when you are coming from out of town, and I have made it easy and affordable for you to have the perfect wedding day.  I am happy to be of service for couples who have already retained an officiant, but would like to have the music for their ceremony and/or reception. My slogan is “Where Your Event Dreams Come True” and I am happy to help you put together your dream wedding.  You can visit my DJ website at: www.djlittlebit.com