Posts

The Wedding Cermony, Part1

  What is a Wedding Ceremony?     While a marrige needs to acknowledge the legal element of the union, the wedding itself is what most people are concerned with. And the ceremony is what they usually most remember - that's what they keep videos of to look at later.     So when we ask the opening question, the answer may seem obvious. But understanding the wedding ceremony helps clarify everyones role.     So what is a wedding ceremony? Wedding Ceremony Defined      The short answer is that a wedding ceremony is the ritual by which two people get married.      This answer assumes a communal understanding of wedding ceremony rituals, and what the term "marriage" means.      But, it might be harder to pin down what really happens,  and how,  especially nowadays. Some people want to go, "free-style" and be unique in everything – including their marriage.  So its not always one size fits ...
Post a Comment
Read more

THE WEDDING LICENSE

Image
Understanding the Wedding License       This page offers an overview of marriage licenses in the U.S., and some general details for South Carolina, including where to apply and what to expect. It should answer most questions you might have. However, I cannot cover all the regulations, everywhere, in this sort of post.      Also, couples sometimes feel unsure or intimidated by the legal side of getting married - after all, its not something you do on a regular basis!     Which is where  the wedding officiant - me - helps out.  I'm  familiar with the licensing process and can guide you with confidence, so you can keep your focus on the ceremony itself.     So, just reach out with questions ...  my contact info is at the end. What Is A Marriage License?       In the most general sense, the wedding license is a document that secures the couple's contract of marriage by sworn oath – the verbal, "I ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Why The Government Regulates Marriages

Image
Modern Marriage and the Government What is marriage, and why is the government involved?        Marriage is often defined as a lifelong legal and personal partnership between two people. In reality, people divorce, and many committed couples never formally marry, so the definition isn’t perfect.      Legally, marriage is a government-administered contract that grants specific rights and benefits. The wedding ceremony is the ritual expression of that contract. At its core, marriage is a public agreement between two parties, and the ceremony symbolizes that agreement.      The one essential element of the ceremony is the,  Declaration of Intent . The Declaration of Intent      The Declaration of Intent is the “I do” moment in a wedding — the spoken enactment of the marital contract. Legally, it’s the most important part of a wedding ceremony, because everything flows from this clear, voluntary statement of intent. ...
Post a Comment
Read more

YOUR WEDDING - YOUR WAY

Image
     What kind of wedding do you want? If you’re here, you’ve probably been thinking about it. It might be just the two of you, something small with close loved ones, or a big celebration with everyone you know. Whatever you choose, it’s your day — and I’d love to help make it the wedding you want! Who Am I?      I’m David Hutton, a commissioned Notary for the State of South Carolina, which means I’m legally authorized to perform marriages as an officiant.      To me, marriage is a sacred and profound moment in life—one of the few that truly defines us. Whether it’s your first, second, or later-in-life marriage, I would be honored to help make your day meaningful.      You choose the venue — home, park, banquet hall, or church — and I’ll come to you. I usually just need a few weeks’ notice.      Your ceremony can be as traditional or as modern as you like. I love classic weddings, but I’m happy to tailor somet...
Post a Comment
Read more