FAQS

Winter ceremonies up north with Emily and JeffNot seeing the answer you’re looking for in this FAQS? Contact Us and we’ll get back with you ASAP.

Q– What areas do you cover?

We travel in an expansive five-county region in the Northwest corner of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. This includes Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Grand Traverse. Also Kalkaska and Leelanau counties. Favorite cities and towns for weddings are Traverse City, Glen Arbor, Frankfort, Elk Rapids. Leland, Suttons Bay, Northport, and Charlevoix, too. I’m sorry to say we no longer travel to Petoskey or Harbor Springs.

Q – How much do you charge?

A – We really don’t want to recommend a service or a package with options you don’t need. Plus every ceremony, no matter how involved or not always has something special about you in it. Connect with us when you’re ready. We’ll find out what you need and don’t need, then can give you a reasonable price. FYI: Cost varies by location and not on how big or small your guest list is.

FYI in this FAQ:  You may qualify for a discount. 

Contact us through our Contact form and we can get your answer to you.

See the Benefits of Working with Reverend Crystal so you know the extra care and services available to you for the price you pay. Officiant Sheila’s fees are similar and should be discussed directly with them. We forward your specific request for either one of them from our Traverse City Wedding organizer.

Q – How long does the ceremony last?

A – The basic ceremony up north normally last about fifteen minutes. However, depending upon the number of attendants you have, the special ceremonies and readings you chose to add, any special music which is played during the ceremony, etc. will lengthen the time of your event. Generally, most weddings with 3-6 attendants are complete in about 25-30 minutes from the time the bride and groom enter and they and the wedding party exit the ceremony.

Q – How do we get our marriage license?

A- If either the bride or groom lives in Michigan, their marriage license can be obtained at the County Clerk’s office in the county in which they live. The marriage license may be used anywhere in Michigan.

If both of you are out-of-state residents, your marriage license must be obtained in the county where the ceremony is to take place. Some counties will allow a couple to apply for a license over the internet. Other counties have restrictions that mean the license has to be applied for in person. There is a three-day waiting period after filling out an application. Then your ceremony must take place within thirty days. Most County Clerk’s offices will waive the three-day waiting period for out-of-state couples. You need to check with that particular county about their requirements.

NOTE:  Ask your County Clerk if they require your license to be certified in order for the Bride to change her name on legal documents. This link is a directory of Michigan County Clerk offices

Q – Can we use our own ceremony?

A – Your wedding is about you and what is important to you. Our wedding officiants have a ceremony they usually use since they have “tweaked” it over the years and are comfortable with it. However, your choices help to make it reflect what you value most. My colleagues and I are very open to incorporating your preferences.

Q – Do you require pre-marital counseling, or meeting with us prior to the ceremony?

A – Premarital counseling is not required in order to be married by any of our wedding officiants. However I have a fabulous program you can experience as part of the Extraordinary Wedding package. It will help prepare you for marriage and add to the insights you have about one another so you can continue to grow together year after year. I can meet with you in person before your wedding day. If you aren’t able to meet in person, I’ll plan with you via FaceTime, Skype or Google Hangouts.

Q – What if we have to cancel your services after we’ve booked them?

A – Michigan law states that a retainer (deposit) given to secure a service is not refundable, unless the vendor is not able to provide the services contracted for. Rev. Sheila and Rev. Crystal require a non-refundable $200 deposit within ten days from the time you reserve your date with us. The balance is due one week before any of our ceremonies up north. Also, refund policies must be discussed with any of our ministers who may be referred to you through Northern Michigan Wedding Officiants.

Q – Do you require a contract?

A – The confirmation letter I provide acts as your Contract. When you send your retainer check, please sign the bottom of the confirmation letter signifying you have read the letter and understand the terms. Rev. Sheila’s process is individual to her.

Q – What do you normally wear for weddings?

A – We women normally wear a simple, classic dress. 

I hope this FAQS was helpful. If not, please don’t hesitate to connect with us. I promise none of us bite!

Want to see a wedding of mine in action? View a few here:  Wedding Videos

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