Frequently Asked Questions

What are your qualifications?
I am an ordained Minister through the Universal Life Church. I have written and performed over 200 wedding ceremonies across the Unites States. I am also a professional actor, playwright, and event host with over 30 years of stage experience.

Where do you officiate weddings?
I serve Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington County, Ozaukee, Racine, Kenosha, and all of Southeast Wisconsin.

Do you require a deposit?
Yes, a non refundable deposit is required at booking. You can pay via ACH, credit card, CashApp, Zelle, check or cash.

Will we meet you in person before our wedding?
All pre-wedding meetings are done via Zoom for convenience. If you are in the Milwaukee metro area and prefer an in person meeting we can arrange that.

How do we apply for our marriage license?
You can use Milwaukee County Clerk’s online system to book your appointment at the Milwaukee County Clerk. Bring photo IDs, birth certificates, proof of residency and $110.

HOT TIP: Go through Dane County instead. They have virtual appointments on Zoom and it's legal in Wisconsin to get your license in any county. Their fee is $120.

Who submits the signed marriage license after our ceremony?
I will coordinate with you or your planner to sign the license before, during or after the ceremony and submit it to the Clerk’s office on your behalf.

Do you perform courthouse weddings in Milwaukee?
No, Milwaukee does not allow courthouse ceremonies. I offer a private personalized alternative that meets all legal requirements anywhere you choose.

Where can we hold our ceremony?
Anywhere you like! Your home, a park, a venue or another special spot in southeastern Wisconsin.

How far do you travel in southeastern Wisconsin?
I am based in Milwaukee and travel throughout the metro area and nearby towns. Just let me know your location so we can factor in any travel fees.

How do we book and what’s required?
Fill out the contact form or call me, choose your date, time and location, pay the deposit, sign the paperwork and you are all set no courthouse lines required.

Can we personalize ceremony elements like vows or readings?
Both the Classic & Original ceremonies can be tailored to your preferences from custom vows to favorite readings.

How long does the ceremony last?
Durations vary by package. The Quickie Ceremony runs about 5 to 7 minutes. Classic and Original ceremonies run about 15 to 25 minutes.

Are your ceremonies LGBTQ friendly?
Absolutely! I celebrate love in all its forms. Every ceremony is inclusive and welcoming to couples of any orientation or identity.

Can you perform a same-day wedding in Milwaukee or Wisconsin?

Yes! I regularly officiate same-day weddings throughout Milwaukee and southeastern Wisconsin. If you have your marriage license in hand, I can marry you today or as soon as you're ready. Just contact me directly and I’ll check availability.

What is the fastest way to get married in Wisconsin?

The fastest way is to apply for a marriage license with your County Clerk (there is a mandatory 4-day waiting period unless waived), then book a professional wedding officiant like me to perform a quick ceremony. I offer a Quickie Ceremony designed for urgent elopements and last-minute weddings. No venue, no stress, just the essentials.

Do you offer emergency wedding officiant services?

Yes! I’m available for emergency wedding ceremonies when your original officiant cancels or if plans suddenly change. I’ve stepped in for countless couples at the last minute and can perform legal, heartfelt ceremonies with very short notice.

What should I include in a last-minute wedding or elopement checklist?

Here’s a simplified last-minute wedding checklist:

• Marriage license (issued by the County Clerk)
• Government-issued photo IDs, birth certificates
• Two witnesses (18+)
• Rings (optional)
• Outfits
• A quick ceremony plan (I’ll help with that!)
• Officiant (that’s me!)

Bonus: Bring tissues, water, and a charged phone for photos... your emergency wedding kit essentials.

Where can we have a same-day wedding in Milwaukee or nearby?

You can have a same-day wedding almost anywhere... your home, Lakeshore State Park, an Airbnb, or even your backyard. Since Milwaukee courthouses don’t perform weddings, I offer a perfect courthouse alternative that comes to you. I’ve officiated in kitchens, driveways, hotel rooms, and gardens. Just pick a spot and I’ll meet you there.

Do you help with urgent elopements in Milwaukee or Wisconsin?

Absolutely. I specialize in urgent elopements and quick weddings in Milwaukee, Racine, Waukesha, Kenosha, Ozaukee, and Washington counties. Whether it’s same-day or next-week, I’ll guide you through the process and deliver a legal, joyful, low-stress experience.

What if our wedding officiant canceled last minute?

I can help! If your officiant ghosted or canceled suddenly, I offer emergency wedding officiant services with fast response times. I’ll step in, prepare what’s needed, and perform your ceremony legally and professionally, even on short notice.

Can you suggest ideas for a last-minute wedding or quick elopement?

Yes! Some great last-minute wedding ideas include:

• Getting married in your living room with just a few close loved ones
• A sunset elopement at a local park or lakefront
• Renting a cute Airbnb and hosting a mini celebration
• A “pop-up” wedding with just rings, vows, and happy tears

Need help with quick elopement ideas? I’m happy to suggest locations, timing, and structure that fits your situation and vibe.

Do you offer affordable urgent elopement options in Milwaukee?

Yes! My Quickie Ceremony is an affordable, legally binding option for couples who need to get married fast in Milwaukee or southeastern Wisconsin. It’s a perfect solution if you’re searching for cheap urgent elopements in Milwaukee that still feel special.

Can you help us plan a quick wedding or elopement from start to finish?

Yes! While I’m not a full-service planner, I’m happy to help with:

• Ceremony script and timing
• Location ideas
• Marriage license info
• Quick coordination to make it all come together smoothly

You’ll be surprised how easy it can be with the right guidance.

Want to Get Married Today?

Email me at schwa@actingofficiant.com or fill out the contact form.

Serving Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine, Kenosha, Ozaukee, Washington County, and beyond.