There are many things to consider when looking for the perfect wedding officiant for your upcoming Virginia Beach nuptials. Among the many things you’ll want to discuss with wedding officiants, such as any ceremony details you’d like to include and where you’d like to say your vows, it is most important to make sure that whoever conducts the marriage ceremony is authorized to perform the union legally.

Laws governing the Commonwealth of Virginia allow for ministers, priests, rabbis, and other religious leaders to conduct marriage ceremonies as long as they can produce proof of their affiliation with their respective religious society.  You may, however, be looking for a non-religious Virginia Beach wedding officiant. The Commonwealth also permits civil marriage celebrants to perform civil unions. These individuals are often commissioners and other court-appointed officials.

Whether you plan to get married in a church or house of worship on Shore Drive, or you want to stage a beachside wedding, just steps from the Virginia Beach Boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean, be certain to discuss all of the details with potential Virginia Beach wedding officiants ahead of time to ensure there are no surprises on your big day. It’s important to find someone who can accommodate your wishes and set the tone you desire when tying the knot in the Virginia—after all, it is the state for lovers.

Once a marriage license has been issued from the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, it must be used within 60 days or it will expire. Planning ahead with Virginia Beach wedding officiants will help keep your timeframe in order and guard against having to reapply for a license. 

You may also find it helpful to talk to Virginia Beach wedding officiants about any out-of-the-ordinary or special touches you plan for the big day. For instance, maybe you’re planning a themed wedding that pays tribute to your love of the Virginia Destroyers or that references your or your spouse's military roots. Or maybe your wedding will take place during a sunset cruise around the Chesapeake Bay, or in front of the sharks and sea turtles at the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. These are all details that you should go over during your initial interview with potential Virginia Beach wedding officiants as they may have suggestions you haven’t even thought of.

To get your wedding celebration underway, take a look at our listings of Virginia Beach wedding officiants sure to make your marriage ceremony unforgettable.