How to Find the Right Person to Tell Your Story

Joan Fergus • May 12, 2026

How to Find the Right Person to Tell Your Story

Choosing the right officiant is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your wedding day. Your ceremony isn’t just another part of the schedule—it’s the heart of the day. It’s where your story is told, your commitment is made, and the tone for your marriage begins.

As an officiant, I’ve seen firsthand how much the right person can shape this experience. Here are a few things I always encourage couples to consider when choosing who will stand with them at the altar.

Experience Matters More Than You Think

There’s so much more to a ceremony than what guests see.

Timing, sound, coordination with your photographer and DJ, managing transitions—these are all the behind-the-scenes details that make everything feel seamless. It’s a bit like conducting an orchestra. When everything flows well, no one notices. But when something goes off, it can quickly become stressful.

I’ve learned something new at every ceremony I’ve officiated, and that experience allows me to anticipate and prevent issues before they happen.

Sometimes couples consider asking a friend or family member to officiate, which is a meaningful idea. But your wedding day isn’t the best time for someone to be learning as they go. If something doesn’t go smoothly, it can create unnecessary stress or even strain relationships.

A wonderful alternative is to involve loved ones in readings or special moments—while leaving the overall ceremony in experienced hands.

Your Ceremony Should Be Personal—Not a Template

No two couples are the same, and your ceremony shouldn’t be either.

I believe your ceremony should reflect your story, your values, and what makes your relationship unique. That might include your love story, your perspective on marriage, and the little details that define your connection.

Too often, couples are given a generic script with their names added in. While that may check the box, it doesn’t create a meaningful experience.

A personalized ceremony, on the other hand, feels intimate, genuine, and unforgettable—for you and for everyone witnessing it.

Presence and Personality Make a Difference

Your officiant sets the tone for the entire ceremony.

Beyond experience, it’s important to choose someone who feels warm, approachable, and comfortable to be around. I make it a priority to connect not just with the couple, but with their families and wedding party as well.

During the ceremony, I guide couples to stay present and focused on each other—so they can truly feel the moment instead of worrying about what comes next. A calm, steady presence helps create a space where those emotions can naturally unfold.

Look for Strong Reviews and Testimonials

One of the best ways to feel confident in your choice is to hear from other couples.

Reviews and testimonials can give you insight into what it’s really like to work with an officiant—how they communicate, how they handle the ceremony, and how couples felt about the experience overall.

Final Thoughts

Your ceremony is the beginning of your marriage story—it deserves care, intention, and the right guidance.

I truly love what I do, and I’m honored to help couples create ceremonies that are meaningful, personal, and reflective of who they are. Time and time again, I hear from couples and guests that the ceremony was their favorite part of the day—and that’s exactly what I strive for.

If you’re looking for an officiant who will take the time to understand your story and craft a ceremony that feels truly you, I would love to connect.

Reach out today to start the conversation—and let’s begin creating a ceremony you’ll remember for a lifetime.

By Joan Fergus September 24, 2024
Marriage is one of life’s most profound commitments—a journey of love, partnership, and growth shared by two people. It’s a path filled with shared experiences, challenges, and moments of joy that build the foundation for a lasting relationship. The Early Stages: The Spark of Love Every marriage begins with a connection—two people brought together by love. The early days of a relationship are filled with excitement and anticipation. You get to know each other, discover shared dreams, and feel the bond between you grow stronger. These moments of discovery lay the groundwork for the enduring love that marriage represents. The Wedding Day: A Moment of Promise A wedding is a celebration of the love and commitment shared between two people. It’s a day to affirm your belief in one another and the life you will build together. This day marks the beginning of a deeper commitment—a promise to walk the journey of life together, no matter what comes your way. Growth and Change: The Heart of Marriage As life unfolds, marriage becomes a partnership of growth. Both individuals change over time, but in a lasting marriage, this evolution happens together. You learn to support one another through life’s transitions, whether that’s a new job, a move to a new city, or personal challenges. Marriage is about growing individually, while never losing sight of the love that brought you together. Overcoming Challenges Together No marriage is without its challenges, and it’s through these moments that relationships can grow even stronger. Life will bring unexpected hurdles, but facing them as a team strengthens the bond between two people. The ability to navigate difficulties together—through communication, understanding, and patience—reveals the depth of commitment and love. Celebrating Milestones and Everyday Moments Marriage is not just about the big milestones like anniversaries and celebrations—it’s also about the quiet, everyday moments that form the fabric of life together. Whether it’s a shared cup of coffee in the morning, a walk in the evening, or a small act of kindness, these moments are the true heart of a lasting marriage. Believing in Love and Long-Lasting Marriage In a world that can often feel uncertain, marriage is a testament to the power of love and belief in one another. It’s the commitment to face life’s challenges and joys as a united team, and to nurture a love that can last through the years. Long-lasting marriages are built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared belief in the strength of your bond.  Ultimately, marriage is a journey—one that requires faith, patience, and above all, love. To believe in marriage is to believe that love can endure, grow, and thrive over a lifetime.