How Do I Get a Marriage License?
It is the couple's responsibility to obtain the marriage license. Whether you live in state or out, you can apply in at any County Clerk's office in Texas. There is a 72 hour waiting period (with a few exceptions including active duty military with ID, remarriage, judge waiver and presenting the premarital marriage certificate from the Twogether in Texas program). Your license is valid for 90 days.
For more information, visit Bexar County Marriage License Info
As your officiant, I am legally bound to complete your valid license and return it to the County Clerk's Office where it was obtained from. This is included in the cost of your ceremony. I always mail your license the next business day after your wedding.
I am happy to provide you with a link to instructions on how to apply. It will cover pricing and all legal requirements including waiting periods and license expiration. Please make sure you have all the required documents prior to applying. They will be listed on the link I send you.
At the end of your ceremony you I will send you a scanned PDF of your marriage license for your records as proof that the ceremony was solemnized. This is not valid to change your name. The county will provide instructions on how to order a certified copy of your license. There is an additional fee to purchase one. You will need the certified copy to change your name at the Social Security Administration and Department of Motor Vehicles/Public Safety. Expect it to take 5-10 days before you can order one depending on the time of year.
How Do I Get Married in Texas if I Reside Out-of-State
Traditionally there is a 72 hour waiting period after obtaining your marriage license before I can perform your ceremony. One exception is active duty military. If you are planning a short visit to San Antonio and need to have your 72 hour waiting period waived, I highly recommend completing the TwogetherInTexas program online. Your completition certificate can be used to obtain a waiver for immediate use. The State of Texas also offers a $60 discount on the cost of your marriage license when you present your certificate of completion . My past out-of-state couples have had success with this online course: www.twogetherintexasonline.com/ . Keep in mind that licenses are issued through the Country Clerk's office and they are closed on the weekends. Please plan to arrive on a weekday to insure you will be able to obtain your license.
What Type of Ceremonies Do You Perform?
As a non-denominational minister I can perform any wedding ceremony. I am not limited to a particular religious affiliation. I can perform civil, secular and religious services. I am happy to weave multiple religious elements into your ceremony for interfaith couples. I am also comfortable with there being no mention of religion. It is your choice and your special day.
Do You Coordinate Rehearsals?
Yes, if you prefer and am available. It's not required. There is an additional $125 fee. My goal is for your day to run smoothly. I have instructions on how to coordinate yourself to save money. Simply ask me for a link. I also provide a mini rehearsal immediately before your ceremony so everyone feels comfortable.
How Do You Write My Ceremony?
I like to get to know you and create a ceremony that reflects your vision. We can speak via telephone, schedule a video consultation or you can complete a questionnaire.
Based on my questions I create your ceremony draft with several choices within that draft. You are free to change, keep or delete anything you like. Most times I am on target with what you are looking for but I am happy to give you as many options as you want or you can tell me exactly what you want said.
I make every effort to provide you with your ceremony draft within 1 week of being hired. You will know everything that will be said at your ceremony beforehand so that there will be no surprises.
While my goal is to have your ceremony finalized 2 weeks before your wedding, if not earlier to avoid unnecessary stress. I will happily make any last minute changes you want.
We Want Our Family to Participate
I am happy to have your friends and family take an active role in your wedding. From readings or unity ceremonies, to a family tradition, I welcome you to personalize your ceremony and include those closest to you on your special day.
I Would Like My Friend to Perform Our Wedding.
I do offer ceremony writing services as well. I will show your friend or relative how to get ordained, and train them on how to complete your legal marriage license. I will still consult with the couple to create your personalized ceremony for them to deliver on your wedding day.
How Long Are Your Ceremonies?
Every ceremony is different and the length depends on many factors including if you choose to have a unity ceremony, readings, writing your own vows, size of your wedding party, etc... They can be as short as 5 minutes and as long as 25. 15-20 is an average ceremony length for my unforgettable package.
What is a License Signing?
No judge available? This is a no frills way to get legally married. It's a short & sweet ceremony with simple "I do's" and a ring exchange. No music, or walking down an aisle. Limited to 6 guests or less. It is not intended to replace a standard wedding. On weekends, license signing ceremonies must be scheduled before noon.
Do You Stay for Dinner?
Not typically. I am happy to provide you with a dinner blessing free of charge for a friend to read. If you are my last wedding of the day I may be able to stay & deliver a prayer or blessing over the meal for an additional $25 fee to cover my time. Dinners don't start immediately following the ceremony, so this adds 2.5 hours of additional time from me being away from my family. While I love my couples, you are busy socializing with your guests, and since I don't know anyone else there, I get lonely : ( Plus, do you really want to buy me dinner?
Can We Wait Until All The Guests Arrive?
I strongly recommend starting your wedding at the time listed on your invitation. Adults know proper wedding etiquette is to arrive early. Anyone arriving late can enter quietly through the back. Your on time guests should not be penalized for the people who didn't take the time to be considerate of your special day. Lots of action is being coordinated behind the scenes by your caterer and other individuals who are counting on a specific timetable. Additionally, I may be booked to officiate at other weddings afterwards. I provide an adequate cushion for unexpected events, but can not accommodate weddings that plan to start 15 or more minutes after my booked time. My goal is to provide you and your guests with a professional ceremony.
Do You Accept Gratuities?
Tips are always appreciated, but never expected. A sincere "thank you" and kind review is also a perfect way to show your gratitude for my services.