Frequently Asked Questions
1. We are not religious. Will you perform a non-religious ceremony?
Yes. The Wedding Ceremony I perform does not reference any particular religion or spiritual belief. If you select the Classic Ceremony, I can include elements from different religions, spiritual beliefs or cultural practices if requested.
2. How do we book your services?
You can reach me through my contact form or by phone. Tell me a bit about your wedding, venue and date. I will then let you know if I am available. In order to secure your wedding date and time, I will need a non-refundable deposit of $150 along with your signatures on the Wedding Agreement. Once I have both, your date and time are set in my calendar.
3. What payment terms do you accept?
I accept e-transfers or PayPal.
A deposit of $150 is required at the time of booking. The balance is due one week before the Wedding day.
4. Can we write our own vows?
Yes. The Classic Ceremony allows you the opportunity to customize and personalize your wedding vows. If needed, I can assist by providing materials that will help you write your vows.
5. When do we meet?
Many couples wish to meet prior to booking, others are happy to book right away. I am happy to accommodate the couple’s wishes.
About six weeks prior to the wedding, we will schedule your Pre-Wedding meeting. At this time, I will send out a Wedding Ceremony Selections document for review. At your Pre-Wedding Meeting, we will discuss all Wedding Ceremony details and do a ‘read through’ of the ceremony.
When possible, I like to meet the couples in person, most often at my home in Owen Sound. If a face-to-face meeting is not possible, we can meet via Zoom or FaceTime.
6. Can a friend marry us, and how do we make that legal?
Yes, a friend can perform a symbolic ceremony for you; however this ceremony is not legally binding and cannot be registered with the Province. In order to have a legal marriage, you need to have your wedding ceremony performed by a licensed Wedding Officiant. I can help you with this. It is important that all elements of the wedding ceremony, as prescribed by The Marriage Act, are conducted by the licensed Wedding Officiant. We can arrange a meeting prior to your Wedding day to conduct the Streamlined Legal ceremony; this ceremony only takes only a few minutes and will satisfy all requirements of the Marriage Act. You are then free to have your friend perform a public Symbolic ceremony on your wedding day.
7. Will you perform a Same Sex Wedding Ceremony?
Yes, I am happy to perform a wedding ceremony for any two people who wish to be married, and are legally entitled to do so.
8. We want a private ceremony; can you help us find witnesses?
Yes, I can assist with arranging two witnesses for your ceremony. An additional fee will be charged for their services. Advance notice is required.
9. What happens if you cannot perform the ceremony?
Life happens, and unforeseen circumstances arise. I belong to a network of Licensed Wedding professionals and would work to secure a substitute Wedding Officiant on your behalf. All monies you had paid to me would be forwarded to the Substitute Officiant to cover their fees.
10. What can I expect on my wedding day?
Your wedding day will be filled with excitement, anticipation and in some cases, nerves. I will do my best to alleviate any unnecessary worry on your part by arriving a minimum of 30 minutes prior to the agreed start time for your wedding ceremony. After your ceremony’s conclusion, I can stay for a few minutes and photos, if desired. Then, I am on my way.
11. How do I get a marriage license in Ontario?
Marriage licences come from your local Municipal Office. Check out their website or call them for a listing of hours and requirements. You would receive your Marriage license no more than 90 days prior to your wedding date. If either you or your partner have been previously divorced and that divorce was decreed outside of Canada, there are an additional few steps you have to take in order to get your license. Your municipal clerk can guide you through the steps you need to take. Be advised that this unique process can take time to complete, so don’t delay in contacting the Clerk’s office to get the ball rolling.
12. We need to change our Wedding Ceremony date and time. Can we do this?
I will do my best to accommodate your request. Wedding ceremony dates and times are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Once I receive your deposit and signed agreement, your requested date and time are reserved for you. If you need to change your wedding date or time, you will need to contact me as soon as possible. Please understand that in some cases I will not be able to accommodate the change, at which point I will retain the $150 deposit and return any other money which had been paid to me.
Read reviews from couples like you
"Anne was amazing to work with during the entire process. She truly cared about us and making our day as enjoyable as possible. We would highly recommend hiring Anne for your wedding."
Matt & Rebecca
"Anne has excellent planning and organizational skills. While onsite with us for planning decor, table arrangements etc., her input, calmness and objectivity were invaluable! She is a great problem solver and will stop at no act of magic to work out any problems or hitches in the day. Anne will be there for you until your big day ends perfectly."
Rick & Janice