Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the ceremony take? The actual ceremony does not take very long - usually between 10 and 15 minutes. The time depending on the size of your wedding party, the location, and if you include readings, songs or your personalized vows.
Do you do rehearsals? Yes, I do. A rehearsal puts the couple and members of the wedding party at ease. I also provide you with information that will make things easier for your photographer. If you want/need one, it is best to do the rehearsal where you are getting married. However, not every wedding requires a rehearsal. I strongly recommend rehearsals for wedding parties that are large or if the venue is challenging. Couples make the final decision.
Who do you perform weddings for? I'm proud to officiate same-sex, opposite-sex, non-binary, and contemporary weddings, and welcome everyone regardless of background or religious affiliation.
We need witnesses. Can you help? Certainly! I provide witnesses for a small fee. The couple pays them directly in cash. This is a transaction between the couple and the witnesses. Witnesses are required to abide by provincial privacy legislation (FOIP).
How do I book your service? Send me an email or call with the date, time and location of your wedding. Please contact me at 780 416 1966 or send me an email (dawngreen @ shaw.ca).
When do I pay? There is a $50 non-refundable deposit to reserve your date and time. Final payment is due immediately prior to the wedding.
How can I pay? I accept cash and e-transfers.
When will you arrive for the wedding? For larger weddings, I arrive 30 minutes before the ceremony. For smaller weddings, I arrive about 15 minutes beforehand. I take care of last minute details to ensure everything is ready for you!
Is a blood test required to get a marriage licence in Alberta? No.
Is there a waiting period once the married licence is issued? A couple can be married immediately after obtaining a licence. I have literally had couples call me at 4 pm to get married at 5 pm. This couple brought their marriage licence with them.
Does the couple getting married have to be residents of Alberta? There are no residency requirements to get married in Alberta.
Does the couple have to be Canadian citizens? No. However, they must provide government issued photo identification such as a driver’s licence or a passport.
Is it necessary for the couple and/or the witnesses to speak English? No, but if that is the case, it may be necessary to have an interpreter who is neither the bride nor the groom at the wedding. This is definitely something that that needs to be discussed before the wedding.
What are the requirements for witnesses? Witnesses needs to be over the age of 18 and can understand the proceedings. The two witnesses can be any two adults present at the ceremony. They do not have to be part of the formal wedding party.
Is the marriage certificate issued at the time of the ceremony? No.I will give you a civil marriage statement right after the ceremony. You must go to a registry office and order the marriage certificate after the wedding if you want one. If you require a copy of the marriage certificate as soon as possible, let me know. I can help you with that and there is an extra fee.
Where can I have the ceremony performed? Almost anywhere! If the ceremony is to be held outdoors, you may wish to consider planning for an alternate venue in case of bad weather. I often perform small weddings in my home if couples don’t have a location. Remember that I can only marry couples in Alberta.
What do you wear for the ceremony? I normally wear black unless the couple specifically asks me to wear something different.
Where can we get a marriage licence? All Alberta registry agents are authorized to issue marriage licences. Check Alberta Registries for a registry agent near you.
How do I take my spouse's name? Contact the Alberta Registry Agent of your choice for information.