Between finding the perfect gown, choosing a venue, and picking the ideal wedding cake, there are a seemingly endless number of decisions that must be made when planning a wedding. However, one of the most crucial decisions that many couples overlook is finding the right officiant. It is not just the officiant's job to marry the couple. The officiant also sets the tone for the entire affair and aside from the bride and groom—the officiant is a central figure of the wedding. Here are a few dos and don'ts to keep in mind when choosing a wedding officiant.

Do Decide If You Are Having a Religious or Secular Wedding

Your choice of wedding officiant will depend upon if you are hosting a secular wedding or a religious ceremony. Typically, if you are having a secular wedding, which is a wedding outside a church or place of worship, you will choose a justice of the peace, a government official, or anyone who is licensed in your state to officiate a wedding.

The officiant of a religious wedding will be a representative of your church. Depending upon your involvement in your church, many couples ask a religious leader from their place of worship to marry them. If you are less involved, you can ask a religious leader of a nearby place of worship you are not affiliated with.

Don't Choose the First Officiant You Meet With

The officiant will play an intimate and important role in your wedding. Don't hesitate to interview several officiants to find the right representative for you. Meeting with several officiants will help you determine if you share the same values and vision for your ceremony. Spend time with these officiants and share stories about your life and relationship.

This ensures that on your wedding day, your officiant is ready with funny or endearing stories about you as a couple that can be shared with loved ones during the ceremony.

Do Ask the Right Questions

Ask your potential officiants several questions to ensure you are working with the right person for you and your spouse. For example, if you are having a religious affair, ask the officiant about how your beliefs will be represented in the ceremony. Your officiant might also charge a fee for their services, so make sure to ask about this fee.

If the fee seems exorbitant, take this into consideration when considering what the officiant can offer and if they are a good fit for your big day.

From asking the right questions to choosing an officiant who aligns with your beliefs, there are several dos and don'ts to keep in mind when choosing a wedding officiant. Contact a local officiant or service such as OBX Wedding Officiants to learn what services they offer.