How to Get Ordained and Legally Officiate a Wedding in Louisiana
Why Choose Louisiana for Your Wedding Ceremony?
Louisiana, the Bayou State, offers a distinctive blend of southern charm, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery, making it an unforgettable setting for your wedding day. Whether you're envisioning a romantic ceremony under the sprawling oaks of a historic plantation, a lively celebration in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, or an intimate exchange of vows along the serene bayous, Louisiana's unique ambiance sets the stage for a truly special occasion. Its rich culinary heritage and renowned hospitality further ensure that your wedding will be a one-of-a-kind experience for you and your guests.
When planning a wedding in Louisiana, one of the most important details is choosing the right officiant. Here’s everything you need to know about officiating a wedding in the Bayou State, from legal requirements to practical tips for creating a memorable ceremony.
General Tips for Officiating a Wedding
Officiating a wedding is an honor that comes with significant responsibilities. Here are some general tips to help you prepare:
- Meet with the Couple: Schedule time to meet with the couple beforehand to understand their vision, preferences, and expectations for the ceremony. This is also an opportunity to learn about any cultural or religious traditions they’d like to incorporate.
- Write a Personalized Ceremony Script: Tailor the ceremony to reflect the couple’s story, values, and personality. For guidance on crafting a meaningful script, visit Provenance.co.
- Practice Your Delivery: Rehearse the ceremony script to ensure a smooth and confident delivery. Pay attention to pacing, tone, and clarity.
- Coordinate with Other Vendors: Communicate with the wedding planner, photographer, and other key vendors to ensure everyone is aligned on the ceremony timeline.
- Get Out of the Way for the First Kiss: After pronouncing the couple married, step to the side to allow the photographer to capture the perfect shot of their first kiss.
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, the following individuals are authorized to officiate wedding ceremonies:
- State Judges and Justices of the Peace: These officials are legally empowered to solemnize marriages.
- Religious Leaders: Priests, ministers, rabbis, and clerks of the Religious Society of Friends who are authorized by their respective religious organizations and are at least 18 years old can officiate weddings. This includes ministers ordained by The Provenance Center.
Before officiating a wedding (except for judges or justices of the peace), an officiant must register by filing an affidavit with the clerk of court in the parish where they plan to perform marriage ceremonies. This affidavit should include their legal name, denomination, and address.
For more details on which states allow officiants ordained online, check out this helpful resource: Which States Allow Online Ordination?.
How to Become an Officiant in Louisiana
- Meet the Legal Requirements: Ensure you are at least 18 years old and affiliated with a recognized religious organization.
- Register with the Clerk of Courts: File an affidavit with the clerk of court in the parish where you intend to officiate weddings. Include your legal name, denomination, and address.
- Get Ordained: The PCO offers easy online ordination to fulfill this requirement.
- Maintain Compliance: Stay informed about Louisiana’s marriage laws to ensure you fulfill your responsibilities as an officiant.
For a step-by-step guide to becoming a wedding officiant, read: How to Become a Wedding Officiant.
How to Officiate a Wedding in Louisiana
Here’s a step-by-step guide for officiating a wedding in Louisiana:
- Get Ordained & Obtain Necessary Documents: Present your official ordination certificate along with the affidavit to the clerk of court.
- Plan the Ceremony: Work with the couple to design a ceremony that reflects their values and preferences.
- Perform the Ceremony: Conduct the ceremony in the presence of at least two competent witnesses.
- Complete and Submit Marriage Documents: After the ceremony, complete the marriage certificate and submit it, along with the original license, to the court clerk who issued the license within 10 days.
How to Fill Out a Marriage License in Louisiana
The process for obtaining and filling out a marriage license includes:
- Complete the Application: Both parties must complete a written application, providing personal information such as full name, residence, age, and social security number.
- Provide Necessary Documentation: Each applicant must provide a certified copy of their birth certificate, proof of divorce (if applicable), and other required documents.
- Submit the Application: Submit the completed application in person to a notary, deputy clerk, or deputy registrar in any state parish.
- Pay the Fee: The cost for a marriage license typically ranges from $20 to $40, depending on the parish.
FAQs
Q: Can minors get married in Louisiana?
A: Generally, persons under the age of 18 cannot get married in Louisiana, except for 16- and 17-year-olds who are no more than three years younger than their spouse-to-be.
Q: Are proxy marriages allowed in Louisiana?
A: No, marriage by proxy is not permitted in Louisiana. Both parties must be physically present at the wedding ceremony.
Q: How long is a Louisiana marriage license valid?
A: A Louisiana marriage license is valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.
Q: Can I officiate a wedding if I was ordained online?
A: Yes, as long as you meet Louisiana’s legal requirements and register with the parish clerk of court, you can officiate weddings after being ordained online by The Provenance Center.
Q: Do I need to be a Louisiana resident to officiate a wedding in the state?
A: No, you do not need to be a Louisiana resident to officiate a wedding in the state.
Final Thoughts
Officiating a wedding is both a privilege and a responsibility. By taking the proper steps to get ordained, preparing thoroughly, and adhering to Louisiana's legal requirements, you can help create a memorable and legally sound ceremony. To learn more about becoming an officiant, check out the Guide to Becoming a Wedding Officiant. For state-specific ordination details, visit Which States Allow Officiants Ordained Online.
Please Note: State and county marriage certificate requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Everyone’s situation is different, and we would always advise that you contact the office of your local marriage authority or a licensed attorney to address any specific questions or concerns you may have. While Provenance will aim to update this information as relevant and as able, you should reach out to the local county clerk for the most up to date information.
