How does one get certified as an officiant?

annerandcler

Hello, there is someone in particular we'd like to marry us for a non-religious ceremony. Does anyone know the process for this person to get certified as a legal officiant? He wants this to be a one-time thing so does not have an interest in being an official justice of the peace (plus,  he lives in CT and we are getting married in MA so I don't know that he'd be able to anyway). Any suggestions you have will be appreciated! 

Molly&Andy

I believe for MA someone can apply for a one day license. I think this link should help:  http://www.mass.gov/governor/administration/legal/marriage/one-day-marriage-designation-instructions.html.

lchin444

My friend is officiating my wedding and lives in another state.  Look on the website for the town you are getting married in and you'll get more details.  The process is pretty simple but you want to give your self enough time.

annerandcler

Thank you! Molly - the link you posted is the same link I found when doing research, but it doesn't work and I can't find the info anywhere else on the MA site

cmcnally4

http://www.mass.gov/governor/administration/legal/marriage/ here is the link on the mass.gov website

HockeyFan4

I am not sure for someone out of state...but my brother married us.

There is a form he had to fill out and he needed a letter of reference, stating their strong character...and of course there is a fee.  There is a time frame to send it (can't be before a certain amount of time before the wedding)...You will need to know who Party A is and Party B, the location of your wedding, date, etc.  Make sure when you fill out your marriage license, you keep Party A and Party B the same.

Good luck!