How to Officiate a Wedding in Lafayette, Louisiana

So you’re getting married in the ‘Happiest City in America!” As one of the most culturally and ethnically rich cities in America, you won’t be able to help yourself from being swept up in the laughing crowds and rhythmic Cajun or Zydeco music. Annual festivals, such as the Festival International de Louisiane and the Courir de Mardi Gras, attract thousands of people from all around the world to celebrate culture and creativity. Head down to the Breaux Bridge for some authentic Southern crawfish, taste a classic sweet dough pie at a local bakery, or try some of the city's famous boudin (sausage). You might also be interested in the beautiful historical buildings and famous architecture such as the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist.

Whatever your plans may be, AMM is here to help you with the logistical aspects of your wedding, such as ordaining the minister of your choice and walking you through how to apply, fill out, and sign the marriage license.
 

Step 1: Get Ordained with American Marriage Ministries

Let’s start with the ordainment process. In Louisiana, those who are eligible to legally solemnize marriages are: “any clergyman of any religious sect that is authorized by the authorities of his or her religion and who is registered to perform marriages.”

This also applies to AMM ministers! Simply sign up with us to become an officially ordained minister, and legally solemnize your friend's marriage. The ordination process is free and only takes a few minutes to complete. 

You will also need to register with the Lafayette Parish and sign an affidavit. This will come with a small recording fee of $5.00. Make sure to order your Minister Ordination Package which will include all the registration materials you need in Louisiana.

Step 2: Prepare for the Wedding Ceremony in Lafayette

Now that the easy part is out of the way, we can help you prepare for the wedding ceremony itself. Being asked to officiate a ceremony is an honor, but can feel like a lot of pressure. You will appreciate our wedding training pages, which are a library of information to help you prepare for your first ceremony and ensure that it goes smoothly.
 
Here you can find everything from sample wedding ceremony scripts, helpful hints, tips, prompts, and more.

Step 3: Officiate the Wedding and Complete the Marriage License

By this point, you should be well-prepared to conduct the wedding ceremony. Your one legal responsibility is to complete your section of the couple's marriage license. 
 
Once you, the officiant, have conducted the marriage ceremony, you will be required to verify information on the marriage license, like the date and the couple’s names. Then the completed marriage license must be returned to the Lafayette Parish Clerk’s office after the ceremony. 
 
For more details on filling in the individual fields such as “type of ceremony,” please consult our guide on how to complete a marriage license. 
 
Once the completed marriage license is returned, you have performed all of your functions as the wedding officiant.
 

File for the Marriage License from the Lafayette Parish Clerk’s Office

Now let’s focus on the couple’s responsibilities. A marriage license must be purchased at least one day prior to the ceremony and returned no later than 30 days afterward. At least one of the members of the couple must go in person to the Lafayette Parish Clerk’s Office and provide legal documentation for both members, including proof of birth, social security numbers, and any prior marriage documentation such as divorce papers. The marriage license fee is $27.50 plus $4.00 per page of any extra attachment such as waivers or parental consent forms. In order to save time at your appointment, complete the online application prior to your visit.
 
When you go, just remember to bring:
 

• Both members proof of birth (birth certificate or birth card)
• Both members Social Security numbers (individual card not necessary)
• $27.50 payable in cash, credit, or debit card
   

The Basics

If you want all the amenities of a wedding venue in one amazing package, take a look at the City Club River Ranch. Not only will you have access to all the great aspects of a five-star hotel like swimming pools, a beautifully lit patio with a bar and grill, fitness centers, and a spa, you’ll also be able to use the spacious Fleur de Lis Ballroom or Audubon Room for a gorgeous wedding banquet. Another huge plus is that you’ll have a gorgeous outdoor space for the ceremony and reception. If you are looking to avoid blowing your budget, check out the Petroleum Club. This venue, although not overly lavish, is nevertheless a well-lit, sizable banquet hall with a variety of catering functions for you and your beloved to celebrate your big day with family and friends. 
 
AMM’s top pick is The Abacus. This stunning mansion, built with a 1940’s architectural style, is sure to knock your socks off with its majestic grandeur. Not only do they have lavish catering and a gorgeous bar area, but you’re also sure to be dazzled by the colorful lights and posh dining areas.  

Transportation

The fare to take the bus in Lafayette is only $1.00 for adults, so this would be a highly recommended option if you are planning to do a lot of traveling around the city. Otherwise, cycling is a growing trend, so if you want to rent bikes, or you decide to bring your own, you can save money and help the environment. Rideshare services such as Uber are also readily available. 

Weather

Lafayette summers are known for being long, hot, and humid with average temperatures in the low nineties. Winters, on the other hand, are short, wet, and windy with temperatures in the mid-forties. The best times of year to visit Lafayette for warm-weather activities are spring and fall.