04/27/2026
When I first saw this, I was all fired up—disappointed again in another large media outlet’s lack of inclusion of professional officiants in the wedding planning process.
Now, I’m just sad, but also not surprised.
What is the VERY first thing that happens at the beginning of every wedding day? The ceremony. And the person directing that ceremony is important for so many reasons, one of which is making the couple’s marriage legal. They also set the tone, share the couple’s love story, give the blessing or sacrament (if it’s a religious ceremony), and more.
So WHY is the officiant such a small part of the wedding conversation? Why aren’t they listed in the wedding budget?
Even a church asks for a donation for the priest, cantor, and organist. Asking a friend to officiate may be “free,” but couples should consider setting aside money for coaching or even a thoughtful thank-you gift.
The “guest officiant” trend is rising, but many don’t fully understand the role - leaving other vendors to step in; coaching them, cueing guests, or reminding the officiant where to stand.
Many of my colleagues have stopped asking to be tagged or are trying to “let it go” that we’re not represented. But when a well-known, respected publication like the NY Times creates a 32 page guide where the officiant feels so minor to the whole picture, it’s disheartening.
I doubt it’s going to change - unless we support each other. Here’s my annual ask to my fellow wedding vendors: 𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗧𝗔𝗚 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗡𝗧.
We see those long vendor lists at the end of posts, but we’re often missing.
If it’s not a pro, you can still list:
Officiant: Bob Smith, Bride’s Uncle
Officiant: Father Bob Smith, St. Mary’s
The fact that they’re not a pro or don’t have an IG tag doesn’t matter.
If you value the officiant, whoever they are, maybe the media will follow.
And if you’re already tagging us — I see you, and I THANK YOU. 👏
And - no hard feelings—just maybe consider interviewing some professional officiants for a future wedding feature. I guarantee it would be interesting and educational for everyone. ❤️
