How to Have a Friend Officiate Your NYC Wedding

There’s something extra special about having a friend officiate your wedding—it makes the ceremony feel even more personal, heartfelt, and totally unique to you. Whether it’s a lifelong bestie or a family member who just gets your relationship, having someone close to you lead this moment is such a beautiful touch.

As a documentary wedding photographer based in NYC, I’ve captured so many incredible ceremonies where couples had a friend officiate, and I’ve picked up a few key tips along the way to help make the experience smooth and meaningful!

1. Make It Legal

Before anything else, your officiant needs to be legally able to marry you! In NYC, they can get ordained online through organizations like Universal Life Church. But don’t forget—NYC also requires officiants to register with the City Clerk’s office before performing the ceremony.

2. Give Them Guidance

Your friend might feel honored but also a little overwhelmed at the idea of officiating. Help them out by sharing what kind of tone and vibe you’re envisioning. Do you want it lighthearted and funny? Romantic and sentimental? Giving them a rough outline or examples of what you love can go a long way in making them feel confident.

3. Do a Run-Through

Even if you’re skipping a formal rehearsal, a quick run-through helps a lot! Practice the ceremony flow—where everyone will stand, the pacing, and how to handle little things like passing the rings. As an NYC wedding photographer, I’ve seen how a bit of prep can make the ceremony feel seamless while still keeping it natural.

4. Encourage Personal Touches

One of the best things about having a friend officiate is how personal the ceremony can be. Encourage them to share a short story about you two, a funny memory, or even a meaningful quote that fits your relationship. These moments make for the best reactions (and some of the most emotional photos!).

5. Make Sure Guests Know When to Stand & Sit

Since your officiant isn’t a professional, they might not think about guiding your guests through the ceremony. A simple, “Please rise” or “You may be seated” makes a huge difference in keeping the ceremony smooth and comfortable for everyone. Without these cues, guests can feel unsure of what to do, so clarifying helps!

6. Use a Microphone

NYC weddings can be loud—whether you’re in a scenic park, a rooftop venue, or even a cozy indoor space. A microphone ensures that all your guests can hear every word, from the sweet vows to the laughter in between. Plus, it makes for clearer audio in your wedding video!

7. Relax and Enjoy It

At the end of the day, this moment is about celebrating your love in the most personal way. If your friend stumbles over a word or gets choked up (trust me, it happens!), it only adds to the authenticity of the moment. And as a documentary wedding photographer, those raw, unfiltered emotions are exactly what I love to capture.

Having a friend officiate your wedding makes your ceremony feel truly one-of-a-kind. With a little prep and a lot of heart, it’ll be a moment you—and your guests—will never forget!

Planning your NYC wedding and looking for a photographer to capture every real, emotional, joy-filled moment?