If you are residents of Wisconsin, you must apply for your license in the county that you reside in. You may marry anywhere in the state. If you are from out-of-state, you must apply for your license in the county in which you will be married in. More information may be found on the Walworth County Clerk's site.
DO YOU NEED THE LICENSE BEFORE OUR WEDDING DAY?
Typically, no. However, by getting the license from you ahead of time, it is one less thing you have to be concerned with on your wedding day. If you apply for your license in Walworth County, you may ask them to hold it for me and I will gladly pick it up for you before your wedding day.
WHERE CAN YOU PERFORM OUR CEREMONY?
Anywhere in the state of Wisconsin! Realistically though, I try to keep travel to a reasonable distance. As far as location, I have officiated marriage ceremonies anywhere from private yachts to public parks, on-stage at country fest concerts to private residences and most places in between. If you have a special location or wedding theme, just ask. I will do my best to accommodate your request.
DO WE NEED TO USE RINGS?
Absolutely not! Ceremonies can be written with or without the exchange of rings.
WHAT ABOUT WITNESSES?
You will need to provide two witnesses that are over the age of 18. If you are unable to provide them, I may be able to make arrangements with a couple of local individuals to witness the ceremony, depending on the date, location and time.
SHOULD WE GET TOGETHER WITH YOU FOR A REHEARSAL?
Traditionally, it is a good idea to have a rehearsal with your wedding party, depending upon your particular circumstances. Generally, it is not necessary for me to be present. (I have the "easy" part!) Anything that I need to know about can usually be covered over the telephone or discussed shortly before the ceremony. However, I am NOT against participating in your rehearsal and will make every effort to attend if you feel it necessary.
WILL YOU USE A MICROPHONE IF REQUESTED?
Absolutely! Typically, a microphone is not necessary and many couples prefer it not be used. However, there are situations where a microphone is beneficial for your guests. Since I use a small book during the ceremony, a hand-held microphone is not practical. If you desire and make arrangements with me beforehand, I will bring a lapel microphone to use for the ceremony. Please inform your DJ or sound person that the microphone is a wireless Shure TPD and has both 1/4" phone and XLR outputs to connect to their sound system.
HOW MUCH DO YOU CHARGE?
I do not set a fee. However, I do expect to receive an honorarium. My services are compensated only by gratuity and the amount is entirely up to you.
(Exception): Two facilities in Lake Geneva (Geneva Inn and Gilbert's Restaurant) include a preset gratuity ($125) for the officiant in their wedding packages. This amount is passed on to me when I officiate at these locations.
WHERE DO WE GET A COPY OF OUR MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE?
The Original Certificate of Marriage will be filed within 3 days at the register of deeds office in the county in which you were married. (Typically Walworth County) You may have received a form in your marriage packet to fill out and mail in to request copies.
If not, you may follow this link to the State of Wisconsin and fill the form out online. Once you fill out the form, PRINT IT. Send the completed and signed form to the State of Wisconsin along with any fees to receive your copies.
(PLEASE NOTE -- If you forget your license the day of your wedding, I will not be able to perform your marriage!)
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