How do we book you for our wedding?
Go to the "booking" page and fill out the information form, or email me directly at chad@socalweddingofficiant.org
Providing your date is available, we will set up a free consultation to meet and discuss your upcoming wedding. A 50% deposit is required to secure your date. Once the deposit is received, I will start writing your ceremony all based around your love story.
How much do you charge?
My fee for a local wedding is $700 total, with a $300 deposit due upon booking. It will be more if it is farther away and may be less for last minute or midweek weddings. I also offer a discount for active service.
Anyone can say some vows and make it official. When you hire me you are hiring a communicator. You will not be let down and everything will go incredibly smooth. I do everything I can so you and your fiancé can show up to the ceremony and just be present with each other. Let me do what I do and you sit back and enjoy the most beautiful day of your lives.
Every ceremony I do is customized to the couple. This is what makes me special. Many officiants just copy and paste your names into the ceremonies they have always done. I will learn all about you as a couple and tell the history of how you met, got engaged, and what you love about each other. No two ceremonies are the same and I guarantee, you will cherish your ceremony forever.
Do you do weddings outside of San Diego?
Yes, I do weddings in nearby counties as well. For weddings outside San Diego a travel fee may apply (flexible based on distance).
What is premarital counseling and do you require it?
Premarital counseling is a great way to get to know the person you are marrying on a deeper level. Through in-depth questions and exercises, you will be able to identify the most important ingredients of building a healthy marriage, before you both say, "I do." I do not require premarital counseling, but recommend it. I would be happy to lead you through premarital counseling myself or refer you to a number of excellent premarital counselors in the area. We can talk through the various counseling options during your free consultation.
How long is a typical ceremony?
The ceremony will be long enough to be personal and purposeful but short enough to be clear and concise. No one will be looking at their watches and wondering when cocktail hours starts. Typically my ceremonies last 15-25 minutes from start to finish. Of course, if we choose to include additional elements, the ceremony will be longer. But, 30 minutes is generally the longest a ceremony will ever last. This is your wedding, so we can structure it however you'd like!
Do you do rehearsals?
I am happy to be present at or run the rehearsal, for an additional $200. If you have a wedding coordinator, I will not always need to be at the rehearsal. However, some couples choose to have the officiant help run the rehearsal for added peace of mind and clarity with the flow of events. It is completely up to you, and we can discuss it more in our initial meetings.
Do you file our marriage license?
Yes. It is included in the cost.
Are you a licensed minister, and do you work at a church?
Yes, I am licensed in the State of California, and a minister at Canyon Springs Church in Scripps Ranch, San Diego.
Do you know a good florist, someone for music, photographer, cake place, etc?
Yes. I work with many great professionals. Email me for references.