Are you actually a minister and where did you
get your credentials?
Indeed,
I am. I received my Bachelor's Degree in 1969 from The King's College and my Master of Divinity degree from Denver Seminary
in 1975. Denver Seminary is fully accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. I was ordained in 1975
and pastored two separate churches for 25 years in Western New York State and then in 1999, my wonderful wife, Donna and I
moved to Florida. I am duly authorized to perform weddings in any state. It really is Rev. Dean A.
Ryder.
Where can I read some reviews of your service
as an officiant?
There are many
different types of non-denominational wedding ceremonies - both formal and informal that couples request. Some couples
prefer simple private weddings, while other couples prefer traditional elegant ceremonies at hotels, while still other couples
prefer beach ceremonies at sunset. Most
couples seem to prefer updated traditional wedding ceremonies. They want the strength and elegance of tradition with
a personal touch.
How long do most wedding ceremonies last?
The typical wedding ceremonies that I officiate are from 15
to 20 minutes long. However, they can be as short as ten minutes or as long as an hour depending on the particular needs
and desires of the couple.
Do you do week day weddings? Do you do
morning weddings?
Yes.
If I am available and I usually am, I love to do week day and morning weddings.
How much advance notice do I need to give for my wedding?
Ideally six to nine months for
Spring and Fall weekend weddings here in Florida. The earlier you confirm the better your chances of securing your preferred
date, time, and place.
If I am available, I will always consider officiating
a wedding ceremony, which means I do officiate short notice weddings.
Do you have a sample wedding ceremony program?
Sure,
Here is the basic outline of my typical wedding ceremony:
The Prelude The Processional
The Welcome Question of Intent The Invocation
The Readings The Wedding Remarks (Personalized for each couple)
The Exchange of Wedding Vows The Exchange of Rings
The Unity Sand or Candle Ceremony
The Pronouncement The Recessional
Can we have a friend or family member read a
portion of Scripture, a poem, or other reading during the wedding ceremony?
Yes, This is a wonderful way to involve family or friends in the wedding ceremony.
Can
we write our own wedding vows and read them at our wedding?
Yes, you can.
If you would like, I will let the guests know that you wrote your vows and you can repeat them after me.
When do you arrive at the wedding ceremony?
I
arrive at least one half hour before the start of any ceremony.
What
do you wear to the ceremony?
I normally wear my white robe with crosses, but
I also have a black and candlelight colored robe.
Do we need a Florida Marriage
License? Do we need a blood test? Is there a waiting period?
Yes, you
need a marriage license issued by the State of Florida for me to officiate your ceremony. You can obtain a marriage
license at any County Clerk's office in the State of Florida. You need to go to the Country Clerk’s office in
person and bring a photo id (driver’s license or passport), your Social Security numbers and the ending date of any
previous marriage. No blood tests are required. There is a three day waiting period for Florida residents.
There is no waiting period for Non-Residents (when both the bride and groom are residents of another state or country).
The license is valid for 60 days from the date it is issued.
Do
we have to be U.S. Citizens in order for you to officiate our wedding ceremony?
No,
as long as you obtain a Marriage License issued by the State of Florida. I have officiated weddings for individuals
from the United States and also individuals from other countries...Canada, England, Sweden, and Germany.
What if we want a rehearsal?
I am happy to conduct a rehearsal at
a mutually agreeable time.
