INITIAL CONSULTATION
Consultations are free. We can meet for coffee or chat on the phone or Zoom, whatever you’d like. We will discuss what is important to you, what you want and don’t want from your ceremony, and then we’ll talk about the process and how to make it best work for you.
FEES
Since I began officiating wedding ceremonies, it has been a personal goal to keep my fees reasonable. I (like most other Jasper officiants) charge a flat fee of $400 for a wedding in or close to the townsite.
MARRIAGE LICENSE APPLICATION
A Marriage license application is available from any Alberta Registry Office in Alberta. To get the license you both need to attend and have government picture ID. Marriage Licenses expire in 3 months unless used: don’t get it too early! Please note: If you have been previously married proof of divorce or death is required, also available at Registries
witnesses
You must have two adult witnesses attend the ceremony and available to sign legal documents on your behalf; they can be family, friends, or relatives. If required, I can provide witnesses for you at a cost of $65 per witness.
HOW DO WE BOOK YOUR SERVICES AS A MARRIAGE COMMISSIONER?
I can be booked by phone or email. To begin the process, I will send you a "Marriage Booking Sheet" to be filled out with your names, phone numbers, address, the date and time of your wedding etc. Weddings are booked on a first come first served basis. The earlier you book the better chance you have of getting your desired time and date.
DO YOU REQUIRE A DEPOSIT?
Yes, a 50% deposit is required (e-transfer) in order to secure your booking. The deposit will be forfeited should you cancel without reasonable grounds. Final payment is due on the day of the wedding (e-transfer).
IS A REHEARSAL NECESSARY?
For larger weddings you should have a rehearsal with your wedding party to work out the logistical details of the service. The marriage commissioner is not required to attend the rehearsal. We can discuss this when we meet or talk before the wedding. Extra charges may apply if the officiant is expected to attend the rehearsal.
WHAT DOES YOUR FEE INCLUDE?
My fee includes all prep work, meetings, coaching, ceremony script, performing the ceremony, legal paperwork, registration, etc.
DO YOU CHARGE MILEAGE?
My standard fee includes all wedding locations within 15km of Jasper. There is additional costs beyond 15km. An hourly rate and mileage rates of $0.60/km
DO WE HAVE TO MEMORIZE OUR VOWS?
No, any parts of the ceremony requiring you to speak are in a "repeat after me" format.
CAN CHILDREN/PETS TAKE PART IN THE SERVICE?
Yes. We can plan your day to be the way you want it. Children can be ring bearers of recite a verse or a poem etc. We have had numerous weddings where the pet dog has been the ring bearer. (must be on a leash)
CAN PHOTOS/VIDEOS BE TAKEN DURING THE SERVICE?
Certainly, I encourage it. When we get together to discuss your wedding plans, we will talk about your photographers and their needs. I will meet with your photographer just prior to the ceremony. If you prefer that only your professional photographer takes pictures during the ceremony I will make that announcement.
HOW LONG DOES THE SERVICE TAKE?
On average the actual Marriage Ceremony takes about 15 minutes, with entrance/exit and with signing of documents allow for up to ½ hour.
DO YOU HAVE A READY-MADE SERVICE AVAILABLE?
Yes. I have a standard Wedding Ceremony available. We will review the ceremony script and make any needed changes to reflect your personal preference.
CAN WE WRITE OUR OWN VOWS?
Yes, almost anything is possible, a couple can write their own vows. You may also make changes to the existing Marriage Ceremony that reflects your personal preference.
CAN WE HAVE SOMETHING UNIQUE IN OUR WEDDING?
Absolutely yes, this is your special day. My job is to help make it a wonderful, memorable occasion. Your wedding can be as elaborate or simple as you wish. I have performed weddings in the most unique locations with numerous varying themes.
WHAT DOES THE OFFICIANT WEAR?
Normally a suit and tie, in the winter usually a flat cap and over coat.
HOW FAR WILL YOU TRAVEL TO PERFORM A MARRIAGE?
The area that I normally provide Marriage Ceremonies for is Jasper National Park and area. With enough notice I will travel as needed throughout Alberta.
DO YOU USE A MICROPHONE DURING THE CEREMONY?
I normally don’t require a microphone. If you feel that you would like me to use a microphone, then you must make all the arrangements.
WHAT HAPPENS IF WE ARE RUNNING LATE?
Being on time is extremely important. The time agreed on is the time the bride walks down the aisle. If you are considerably late due to unforeseen circumstances, we may be able to make further arrangements. Unreasonable delays or last-minute cancellation will lead to the loss of the full-service fee.
I HAVE BEEN MARRIED BEFORE, IS THAT A PROBLEM?
No! But you must be legally divorced, before you can get a Marriage License.