Frequently asked questions

Q.  How do we get started?
A.  First, if possible, I would like to have an initial meeting with you. If that is not possible, we can work through email or by phone.

Q.  How do I secure you for our wedding?
A. After our first meeting, I require a signed agreement and deposit to hold your date and time.  This payment will be applied to the final payment due prior to your wedding day.

Q.  How far in advance do we need to book with you?
A.  All of my weddings are booked on a first come - first served basis. There is not set time in advance. Should you prefer a ceremony on short notice with no rehearsal, I would need 2 days notice.

Q.  Where can we have our wedding and/or reception?
A.  Outdoors, in my chapel, a hall, a restaurant, a private home, a park, beside a lake, your living room, or in other words, the place you hold your wedding is entirely up to you.

I do require that if you are having an outside ceremony, that you have a backup plan in case of rain.

A tent is not the best option. Watch this video to get an idea of what can happen.

A Wedding Reception in a tent during a rain storm

Or this one in a dust storm. A Wedding in a dust storm

Another serious consideration when having an outdoor wedding ceremony (if the outdoor ceremony site is in a different location than the reception) is when do you decide to move the ceremony site to the backup location and how do you let all the guests (and the Officiant) know that the ceremony site location has changed due to weather. This a problem if you are considering The Yaddo or Prospect Mountain in Lake George as your ceremony site.

Q.  Do we need witnesses?
A.  Yes, under New York law two witnesses must sign the marriage license at the time of the ceremony.

Q.  Do you provide the witnesses?
A.  No, I'm sorry, I do not. You will have to ask two adults to be present.

Q.  Can we write our own vows?
A.  Certainly, if you wish to do so.  You can also modify the samples I have available.  Again, the choice is yours.

Q.  How long is your ceremony?
A.  My typical ceremony lasts 15 to 20 minutes.

Q.  Do you require pre-marital counseling?
A.  I do not require pre-marital counseling, but I am available should you like to arrange it.

Q.  Do you marry those who have been divorced?
A.  Yes, I am happy to perform the marriage ceremony for previously married people who have a New York State marriage license.

Q.  Who takes care of the paperwork?
A.  You are responsible to obtain a New York State marriage license. After the ceremony, it is signed by the witnesses and I process your marriage license with the Town or City Clerk that issued your license.

Q.  We have a family member who would like to do a special reading at the wedding.  Is this permitted?
A. Readings of special prayers, poems and writings add a beautiful touch to the wedding ceremony and I highly encourage them.

Q.  We would like to light a Unity Candle at the ceremony. Who makes arrangements for this?
A.   If you wish to use a unity candle for the event you may purchase or make your own.

Q. How far will you travel?
A.  My primary service area is the Saratoga Springs/Albany area and surrounding locations.   However, I am willing to discuss traveling elsewhere for your wedding depending on travel arrangements and accommodations.

Email questions to Rev. Wendy Lyon