1. Do you obtain the license for us?
No. The marriage license is something you need to apply for yourselves in person at your local City Hall or municipal office.
Bring 2 pieces of government-issued identification for each person getting married. One piece of identification must include your photo. YOUR NAME MUST COMPLETELY MATCH ACROSS EACH PIECE OF ID YOU USE!
Examples of government-issued identification:
- government-issued birth certificate, including any change of name certificates
- valid passport
- record of immigrant landing
- Canadian Citizenship Card
- valid driver’s licence
- valid Ontario Photo Card
Without a marriage license, your marriage will not be legally recognised. Once the ceremony is over, I will ensure the mailing of your license to the Ontario Office of the Registrar General.
2. How far do you travel?
The distance I will travel is negotiable and is subject to milage charge beyond a certain limit. In general terms, I am available within the greater National Capital Region (within the geographic boundaries of Ontario).
3. What are the legalities required for a marriage in Ontario?
a) Question of Impediment (“do you come here freely to be married on this day without impediment?”)
b) Declaration of Intent (the “I Do’s”)
c) The signing of the license and registry with two witnesses.
d) The Pronouncement (declaring you are now married)These all must happen in front of the two witnesses to make your marriage legal.
4. Who should my witnesses be?
There must be two witnesses physically present at the marriage ceremony. The witnesses must understand what they are witnessing and sign the marriage licence and the marriage register. Therefore, they can be almost anyone as long as they are competent and aware of what they are witnessing. As a rule, to protect the integrity of the Officiant, it is usual that a witness be of a minimum age of sixteen years.
5. We’re not really religious, but we’d like to add various religious aspects to the ceremony. Is that acceptable?
Most certainly. Metaphysicians are accepting of all religions and beliefs. If you wish the ceremony to be completely void of any spiritual element, that is perfectly fine as well.
6. Is it acceptable for a family member or friend to take part in the ceremony?
Within limits. The Officiant must perform all the legal requirements as set out in the Ontario Marriage Act. If a friend or family member wishes to perform a reading or take a role outside the legality sections, that is perfectly acceptable. What the person’s role can be must be agreed to in advance.
7. Are rehearsals included in the cost?
Depending on the complexity of the ceremony (length; number of participants; number of sections or elements of the ceremony) a rehearsal within forty-eight hours of the ceremony may be a good idea. I charge $195.00+HST/hour for in-person rehearsals, assuming I am available to do so. One hour is usually more than enough if people are focused. Please note, it is extremely rare that I am available for rehearsals Friday through Sunday.
8. I have a family member who will perform the ceremony, I just need someone to sign the paperwork and make the marriage legal. Is that something you provide?
Yes, you would want to get the “Strictly Legalities” ceremony.
9. Are you legally recognised by the government?
Yes, I am legally registered by the Province of Ontario.
10. Can you perform a Catholic wedding or a Jewish wedding?
While metaphysical ministers are eminently adaptable and flexible, we specialise in what would be described as non-denominational ceremonies with religious traditions added as required. If you are seeking a strict religious ceremony of an established faith. I would recommend you seek out a recognised priest, rabbi, etc, if you are looking for a full religious service.
11. What languages do you speak?
English only.
12. Will I receive anything that proves we are married?
You will receive a record of solemnisation at the end of your ceremony (this is a tear-off addendum that is attached to every marriage licence issued in the Province of Ontario). For legal proof of your marriage, you can also apply for a marriage certificate. I will remind and assist you eight weeks after your ceremony to apply for your certificate if you choose to do so. This is included in all packages.
13. What happens if you are sick or there is an emergency and you are no longer available?
I am well connected with many other officiants so I will do my best to find a replacement for you.
14. What time do you perform ceremonies?
If I am available, anytime between12pm and 9pm, 7 days a week.