officiant payment

emthewondergirl

hey all...ok, so here's a tricky situation.We have asked our old next door neighbor to be the officiant at our wedding.  He's met with us a couple of times for premarital counseling and will be doing our ceremony. We asked him how much he charges to do ceremonies for people (although he doesn't do them all of the time, he does do them as asked).  He said he doesn't charge people a price and lets people decide that individually.  I know that some officiants charge several hundred dollars, and honestly, if we could avoid that cost, that would be ideal.  however, we don't want to skimp and not pay him anything.I don't know what is a reasonable amount to pay him.... then I thought what if we got him a gift of some sort, to thank him, which would then be less obvious for an exact dollar amount.  But, then I didn't know what would be a good gift!!So.... what are the thoughts?:)Em

stepharoo2006

We are paying our priest $100. I've seen some people pay up to $2,000 for a Rabbi or officiant. I'd say between $100 and $200 would be alright. Or maybe going $100 and then a small gift. That way it doesn't look like you were skimping out. Hope that helps!

MeowsAlot

Our officiant did the same thing--we're giving him $200.  We thought about giving cash and also a gift card for him and his wife to have a nice dinner out, but decided to just go with cash.  Our friends have done $50-$350+church donation so we thought it was middle-ground-ish.  Do whatever you're comfortable with--if money was important to him, he'd give you a number!

hleitzel

Our officiant told us that as well, but said a lot of people give around $200 or so.  We gave him $250, plus meals for him & his wife at the RD & the wedding reception. 

Blynn817

I agree with the majority, Times are tough for everyone right now and cash would probably be appreciated for your officiants time. Our officiant told us the same thing and we are going to give him $200 plus meals at rehersal & reception. A gift is nice but whats the point if the only reason you decided to give the gift is to essentially spend less money? It would be one thing if you found something special and actually meant something and was perfect for him...but if you don't find that just give him cash! JMO

tiffany*

my uncle is officiating my ceremony and we will be paying him $400... which is a lot i think, but my brother paid him $500 a few years ago to do his wedding and he does have to travel from AZ to PA so I think it will help with the travel costs a bit.