Make sure you know what the minister / officiate licensing requirements are in the state in which you wish to get married. Each state is different, and don't count on your officiate knowing them! I had asked him point blank if he was licensed in Virginia, and he said he was. We found out 5 days after our wedding that the guy was not licensed in Virginia. He did not know that he had to be more than just ordained. Here they have to go before the circuit judge to received approval. We were able to get our licenses returned to us and had a second wedding 6 days after our big wedding. It was not a big deal for us, but it could be a problem for someone not able to get that second ceremony.