Your Officiant will provide exactly the right words for these sections of your wedding ceremony, and will provide expertise regarding cultural and religious traditions that may also be included. Why is it so important to have an experienced Officiant for your wedding?Do you remember when Joey on "Friends" got ordained over the internet just to perform Monica and Chandler's wedding? You might be tempted to ask a friend to do the same. Although there are some good correspondence courses available on-line at recognized nondenominational seminaries, you don't want to take chances having someone perform your wedding ceremony who has no experience! Would you hire a surgeon or a dentist that way? An auto mechanic? Why take chances with the most memorable day of your life? (Unless of course, you want a chance at winning $10,000 on America's funniest home videos... But what if you don't win the big prize?)An experienced, ordained, Officiant will warmly welcome the congregation, speak with knowledge about the historical and personal ramifications of marriage, articulate the religious significance of the event, and ensure both parties are legally and spiritually free to offer one another their hand in marriage. Either the Officiant will provide traditional vows, or the couple may write their own. The Officiant will usually bless the rings before they are exchanged. The Officiant, as empowered by the state and the organization he or she represents, makes a legally binding pronouncement of marriage. The Officiant usually also offers a closing blessing, expressly suited to the couple and their new life together. Last, an experienced Officiant will properly process and submit the legal paperwork for you.As an engaged couple, you can help your experienced Officiant personalize your wedding ceremony with your favorite readings, songs, poetry and scripture. Most Officiants will warmly welcome your ideas and suggestions! For ideas on how to personalize your own ceremony with music, readings and ritual, please return to "Design Your Own Wedding Ceremony Home". For information about how to choose an experienced Officiant, click on "How to Choose an Officiant". 