Legal Signings in Canada: Making It Work for Your Dream Ceremony

Ever dreamed of having your favourite family member or friend lead your wedding ceremony? You're not alone! While it may sound like the perfect personal touch, the legal side of things in Canada can throw a wrench in the works. Unlike in the U.S., where a few clicks can get someone ordained online, Canada insists on a more rigorous process. Only licensed clergy, justices of the peace, judges, or government-approved officiants can legally marry you. That means your cousin’s quick online ordination just won’t cut it here!

But don’t worry—I’ve got some fun, stress-free solutions that let you have both worlds: a heartfelt ceremony led by your loved one and a legally binding signing that won’t rain on your parade.

Your Options for a Legally Perfect Wedding

1. Dual Officiants on the Day

   Bring in a professional officiant to handle the legal signing while your friend or family member leads the ceremony. The signing can happen:

   • Before the Ceremony: Meet early (say, around 10 am) for the legal formalities, then enjoy a seamless transition into your ceremony.

   • During the Ceremony: If your officiant’s schedule allows, they can sign while the festivities are underway.

   • After the Ceremony: As long as the signing is completed within the 24 hour period on your wedding day, your marriage is official—even if the heartfelt words are delivered by someone close to you later/earlier in the day.

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2. The Mini-Ceremony Option

   Can’t find an officiant for your wedding day? Consider a mini-ceremony—a legal signing held on a weekday before your big day. I often host these at my home office in Carrying Place. This way, all the paperwork is taken care of in advance, leaving your wedding day free to focus solely on the celebration. The official marriage date will be the day of the mini-ceremony, but you can still have your chosen friend or family member deliver your personalized ceremony on your actual wedding day!

   Bonus: I’m happy to invite your friend or family member to join the mini-ceremony. I can even share tips to help them make your wedding day even more magical.

Making the Right Choice

• Option 1: Secure a Second Officiant

  If having an officiant present on your wedding day is essential, consider booking a professional who can handle the legal signing while allowing your loved one to focus on crafting a memorable, personal ceremony.

• Option 2: Go with a Mini-Ceremony

  Schedule a simple, legal signing with me a few days before your wedding. Imagine saying your “I Do’s” in a picturesque setting:

  • On a dock with graceful swans gliding by.

  • On a woodland terrace, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

  • Or down by a tranquil waterfront terrace with a serene lakeside backdrop.

No matter which option you choose, your wedding will be both personal and legally sound—ensuring a day that’s as seamless as it is unforgettable.

Ready to make it official without compromising on the personal touch? Visit craigloganofficiating.com to learn more, and follow me on Instagram @craigloganofficiating for wedding inspiration and updates.

Let’s create a ceremony that’s unboring, stress-free, and, most importantly, uniquely yours!