Who Can Officiate a Wedding In Connecticut?

Keep it legal:

In Connecticut, the only people able to perform weddings include judges, magistrates, justices of the peace, and ordained or licensed members of the clergy. So unless you buddy or family member happens to be a judge, odds are whoever you have performing the ceremony will have to become a minster through an online service. This is permitted in Connecticut, but make sure whoever you choose gets their application in order when they agree to be your officiant in way in advance, and not two weeks before your wedding.

As lovely as it is to have a friend or relative perform your ceremony, it also is important to note that those who perform ceremonies more often do have a level of professionalism and skill for the legal paper work required by the state. Be aware, those that perform a ceremony once and never again as they have been ordained for family or friend online are more likely to incorrectly file a license, so please make sure they are in contact with the town to ensure they return the license correctly filled out to every detail and in the timely fashion the town would require.

Choosing wisely:

In addition to making sure your marriage ceremony results in an actual legal marriage, you’ll want your chosen one to be someone who is comfortable speaking in public. They don’t have to be a professional actor, but they should be someone who relishes the limelight. You likely know someone who would make a speech at your wedding whether you asked them to or not. Even if you plan on keeping the ceremony short, having an officiant who knows how to project his or her voice is vital. 

The Chain Of Command:

This is very important: your justice of the peace, or anybody who is performing your wedding ceremony, is required by law to take your marriage license and personally mail it or hand-deliver to the town official from which you received your license. They do not give it back to you for mailing. This is a proper chain of command: they should always mailed back the very next business day to ensure a timely delivery.

Remember the wedding ceremony is the most important part of the day, it is why all your fabulous friends and relatives have come together to see you legally be pronounced married.