Calgary Weddings - Marriage Officiants - JPs - Ministers - Ceremony - Ceremonies - Calgary, Alberta - Banff - Canmore - Kananaskis Weddings & Ceremonies
Q: What type of ceremonies do your officiate?
A: I offer services for all wedding ceremonies (non-denominational, religious, non-religious, inter-faith, spiritual etc.)
Q: How can I reserve the date for our wedding with you as our officiant?
A: When you sign the agreement and pay the $150 deposit (part of the total fee) your date will be reserved. I encourage you not to wait too long to reserve your date. Dates are reserved on a first come, first served basis and Saturdays during the summer book up quite early.
Q: What is a Renewal of Vows ceremony?
A: Most Renewal of Vows ceremonies are done at special anniversaries or when a couple reunites after a separation. These services are very emotional and touching as there is more of a story to tell with plenty of memories. The ceremony is performed the same as the first marriage with most couples writing their own vows and sharing romantic stories.
Q: We were married in a small civil ceremony and no one knows, or we just want to retake our vows. Can we get married again in a ceremony with our friends and family?
A: Of course. The only thing that changes is that now there is no filing of any paperwork, as you should have already received your license. It would be up to you as to how to present the ceremony to your friends and family. I would perform the ceremony as an officiate the same as I would any couple. Most call this a "re-commitment" ceremony but no one needs to know if you don't want them to.
Q: Do we have to get married in a church?
A: No. You can be married in your home, a hall, a garden or park, in the mountains, on an overlook, in a restaurant or a reception hall -- the options are almost endless.
Q: What do you wear for the ceremony?
A: I generally wear an officiant robe, but I am happy to make accomodations.
Q: What should we consider for a customized wedding ceremony?
A: I officiate ceremonies that vary from non-denominational with traditional references, to spiritual ceremonies with contemporary style! Be sure to consider the following when deciding the style of ceremony you desire:
- Romantic readings and favorite songs are always wonderful to add to the ceremony. Your vows should reflect the commitment you are making to each other
- Would you like a Unity Candle Lighting or the Native American Wedding Blessing?
- Will the bride be "given away"? If so, what wording do you prefer to use?
- Do you want a short ceremony or a long ceremony? A formal ceremony, or one where laughter is acceptable?
When we meet, I will ask you several questions which will help me to select a starting point for development of your personalized ceremony. Just remember, It's your special day and the ceremony should consist of meaningful segments from you.
Q: Can we write our own vows?
A: Of course! If needed, I'll be happy to help with suggestions.
Q: What is included with your services?
A: My fee includes one meeting with the couple and any conversations up to the wedding day either by phone or email. It includes my assistance in the customization of your ceremony and the actual wedding itself. The fee also includes a custom Certificate of Marriage and the filing of the Marriage License.
Q: Will you travel?
A: I serve Calgary and surrounding areas, including the Kananaskis, Canmore and Banff (additional costs to cover travel outside of Calgary are the responsibilty of the Bride and Groom)
Q: Do you participate in the rehearsal?
A: While I don't require a rehearsal, I think it is a very good idea. The rehearsal is about how the wedding party enters, standing order and exit. I can provide you basic instructions for this if you are comfortable handling it yourself. If however you would like me to attend, there is an additional rehearsal fee because rehearsals usually are scheduled at times when another wedding could be scheduled.
Q: Do you require to be included in the reception?
A: I do not. This helps you save some money on your reception.
Q: Will you officiate a wedding on Sunday or on hoildays?
A: Yes! If I have the date available, I will be happy to officiate a Sunday or holiday wedding.
Q: May I call you on a Sunday? What are your office hours?
A: Yes. My business phone number (403-816-7052) is a cell phone and it is always with me. It is on except during meetings and weddings, seven days a week, and up until about 9:00PM Mountain time.
Q: Do you perform civil ceremonies?
A: The term "civil ceremony" implies a municipal union that takes place in a 'town hall' and is generally officiated by civil authorities (i.e JPs, Judges and Mayors) Many people incorrectly use the term "civil ceremony" when speaking about non-religious or non-denominational weddings. So to this end, yes, I will officiate at non-denominational and non-religious weddings.
Q: How Do I Pay?
A: I will happily acccept cash, your personal cheque (payable to Rev. Karen Chase), money order or credit card (online via PayPal)
