| Frequently
Asked Questions:
What do we need to get married?
The mandatory requirements for a wedding in
Massachusetts are:
- The two people intending to get married
- The officiant
- A valid marriage license. See more information
about this on the LICENSE page.
Do we need blood tests?
Blood tests are not required in Massachusetts.
Do we need any witnesses present at our ceremony?
No. Massachusetts law does not require that witnesses be
present at your ceremony.
Do we need rings?
No. While they are traditional, rings are not required.
Can we select our own vows?
Yes, I have traditional and standard vows to a number of
ceremonies from which you may choose. If you prefer, you
can write your own words.
Do we have to speak at the ceremony?
Only if you want to. Massachusetts law provides a lot of
latitude in what is, and isn’t, required at wedding
ceremonies. You can get away with as little as just
saying, “I do.”
Can others be included in the ceremony?
Yes, there are many ways to include family members and
friends in the ceremony. For example, your loved ones
can do readings, walk down the aisle, carry the rings,
participate in a candle lighting, and more. There are
unlimited possibilities please contact me directly for
more information.
Do we have to hold a rehearsal?
A rehearsal is important if you are planning anything
more than just a basic wedding. It gives everyone, not
just the couple getting married, an opportunity to
become familiar with their roles in the wedding
ceremony. However, it is not a “must.”
What will you wear?
I usually wear a plain black robe over my suit. However,
if you prefer, I can forego the robe and just wear
business attire.
What happens after the ceremony?
After the wedding, there is nothing for you to sign, nor
will you receive any documents (even though you are
legally married).
You will not automatically receive an official copy of
your Certificate of Marriage. You must apply for this
with the Town Clerk or City Clerk where you applied for
your license. There is nominal charge for this certified
Certificate varying by town.
Officiants are not permitted to give you a copy.
Instead, they are required (by law) to complete the
Certificate of Marriage and mail it back to the Town
Clerk or City Clerk from whom you obtained your
license.
I advise you to obtain a copy of your Certificate of
Marriage from the Town or City Clerk after your wedding
and file it away with your other important documents
(such as your Birth Certificates). You may not need it
for many years, but it will be good to know that you
always have a ready copy, rather than having to retrieve
it from the Commonwealth at some date in the future.
Can you renew our vows?
Yes. I have a number of ceremonies for those who want to
celebrate a renewal of their vows.
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