My West Michigan Wedding

My West Michigan WeddingMy West Michigan WeddingMy West Michigan Wedding
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  • About Tom
  • It's Your Wedding
  • Questions?
    • Common Questions
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    • Home
    • About Tom
    • It's Your Wedding
    • Questions?
      • Common Questions
      • Booking Questions
    • Other Services

My West Michigan Wedding

My West Michigan WeddingMy West Michigan WeddingMy West Michigan Wedding
  • Home
  • About Tom
  • It's Your Wedding
  • Questions?
    • Common Questions
    • Booking Questions
  • Other Services

You Have Questions

It's reasonable to have questions.   After all, you don't get married every day. Many common questions are answered below but when more details are needed, I am happy to speak personally with you by phone, text or email

Request Information or Check A Date

F.A.Q.'s

how much do you charge?

SInce 2005, My West Michigan Wedding has successfully provided professional officiant services at reasonable and affordable rates.  Serving a large geographic area, and providing different levels of service prevents offering a one-size-fits-all price.

get pricing information

Can we meet you somehow to make sure you're a good fit for us?

Absolutely!  I welcome the chance to meet with couples. There are different ways that we can make this happen. We can meet in person, facetime,  Skype or just by phone.

How much are we allowed to customize the ceremony? Can we write our own vows?

You have total control over the content of your ceremony. And yes, you may write your own wedding vows.  I will work with you to personalize the ceremony in a way that represents you and is authentic for you.

How long is a typical ceremony?

Ceremonies usually last about 15 to 20 minutes. Ceremonies will be longer if music, other ceremonial elements or readings are added. They can also be modified to be shorter and still retain the most important content.

Will you marry us if we are not members of a church?

Although I feel that finding a community where you can grow spiritually together is helpful,  it is not necessary to show membership at any certain place of worship.

Is pre-marriage counseling required?

No, because it is impractical for modern couples. My West Michigan Wedding offers counseling services if requested. See the Other Services page for details. I am happy to suggest resources for couples wishing to further their understanding about marriage upon request.


F.A.Q.'s

If we are of different faiths, or one of us is not religious, is that a problem?

I believe we are all at different places in our spiritual journey.  A commitment to each other, and an understanding that marriage is a solemn and binding contract  is my criteria for joining in marriage.

We are planning a wedding for just the two of us? Are we required to have witnesses?

Yes you are.  Michigan law requires that two witnesses age 18 or older must be present for your ceremony.  I am not permitted to be one of these witnesses.

We have a divorce in our past, is this a problem?

No, that is not a problem.

We have children, is that a problem?

No, and I am happy to help you include them in your ceremony. This day should be meaningful to them as well.

Will our friends be allowed to participate in the ceremony, share readings, sing, etc?

Yes, we can work together in advance of the ceremony to find the best spots for others to be involved.

Should we have a wedding rehearsal?

That depends on your situation. Smaller weddings typically do not require a rehearsal. Larger weddings that involve many people in various responsibilities do benefit from a rehearsal.  My West Michigan Wedding offers options tailored to your specific needs. See the Other Services page for details.


Do we need a permit for a beach wedding?

A permit is not always required but you don't want to be surprised on your wedding day.  It's best to check with local authorities in advance.

Who takes care of the marriage license?

You are required to obtain your marriage license from the appropriate county clerk.  I am responsible for completing it at your ceremony and returning it to the clerk.  


I take love seriously

My West Michigan Wedding rejects discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital, family, pregnancy status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran or citizenship status.  I am for marital commitment, recognized as a civil right by law and I reject barriers to that commitment.  Love wins.


find out more

for more information or to check a date

  Tom F Hamel    tom@mywestmichiganwedding.com    616-228-5098

  Grand Rapids, Michigan

Copyright © 2018 My West Michigan Wedding

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