- 1). Obtain your certificate. This can be done through a local church or via the Internet. There are many religious organizations offering ordination online. You can also perform the ceremony if you are a judge or notary public.
- 2). Check to be certain the couple has procured a marriage license. They will need to have current photo ID or birth certificate as well as proof of their social security numbers in order to get the license. Both applicants must be present and have proof of the disillusionment of any former marriages.
- 3). Set a time and place with the couple. If the wedding is to be outdoors, you should help the couple determine if any permit is needed to perform the ceremony.
- 4). Write the ceremony. This is usually a cooperative effort with the couple. Be sure to cover all the topics they find important. There are no specific requirements for what must be said.
- 5). Sign the marriage certificate along with two witnesses. The couple signs the license when they pick it up, so after the ceremony only you and the two witnesses must sign the document. Often a best man and maid of honor perform this duty.
- 6). Return the license to the county clerk's office. Individual counties have different return requirements; some are as little as 10 days.
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