Dec 10

Vendor Feature: Officiant Tips

Planning a wedding is a magical journey, but let’s face it—it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Between choosing the perfect venue, finalizing the guest list, and deciding on your vows, there’s one crucial element that ties it all together: the ceremony itself. And at the heart of that ceremony is the person who will guide you through the most meaningful “I dos” of your life—your wedding officiant.

In this blog, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on a seasoned wedding officiant Cole Hofstra, who has been at the helm of countless love stories, making each one unique and unforgettable. With years of experience crafting personalized ceremonies, they’ve seen it all—from heartfelt moments to unexpected surprises.

Whether you’re a couple preparing for your big day or someone curious about the art of officiating, this blog is your go-to resource for expert tips, heartfelt advice, and insider secrets to creating a ceremony that’s as memorable as your love story. Let’s dive in and uncover how to make your wedding ceremony truly one of a kind!

How Do You Know if an Officiant is a Good Match?

This is an in interesting topic. I think as wedding vendors we try to suit those who inquire a bit. We obviously want to work and get bookings. I truly think trying to show your true personality and energy level is important. If you don't feel you could have a light and fun conversation over a coffee or beverage I wouldn't want to spend part of your wedding day with someone who didn't make you feel comfortable.

How Did You Get Into Officiating/ What is your Background?

Originally I have a degree in performance arts and was a professional actor. This took me into wedding photography for 12 years. It was a very natural switch to officiating. I have now been an officiant for 5 years and helped hundreds of couples get married.

What is Your Biggest Piece of Advice for Couples When Looking for an Officiant?

Have the wedding you want and hire an officiant that represents your values.

Do you Have Any Advice for How to Have a Successful Ceremony?

Ignore all the trends and noise. You want your wedding to feel authentic and truly represent you as a couple. If you try to incorporate to many elements the ceremony will drag on guests will become restless and often in the summer overheated.

What is the Number One Mistake you See Couples Make?

Lots of out of Province couples make the mistake of not allowing enough time to get the marriage License before the ceremony. This causes stress and chaos before the day. Give yourself ample time and discuss travel with your vendors.

Many couples also don't have a clear idea of which timeline suits them best. It is amazing to lean on your photographer and other vendors for this. But I would highly recommend putting some thought into what you value before building the timing of the day. For example:

Is sunrise portraits the most important? Then you are likely doing a first look.

Is seeing one another down the aisle all dressed up with a flood of emotions something you always dreamed of? Then you are probably having a 2-3 pm ceremony to allow for portraits and family pics after.

Do you want to spend as much time as possible with your guests and friends on your day? Then do a first look with a later ceremony straight into cocktail hour.

Talk to your vendors and make your "wants" and "values" known before getting a timeline handed to you.

What is Something you Wish People Knew Before they Came to Talk to You?

Truthfully the legal process. How to apply for your documents. These elements are very simple and are all taken care of by Alberta Registries. Most couples assume officiants have a hand in it. We are responsible for filing your papers and the rest is actually out of our hands.