Some commonly asked questions:
1) Do we need a license and where do we go to get it?
Yes, a valid marriage license is needed for the state you are being married in, contact any county recorder for information you need to know and to apply. Please keep in mind some states have a waiting period before your license may be used so apply in plenty of time prior to your wedding date. You must bring your license with you the day of your wedding. I am required by law to return your signed license by mail to the appropriate county recorder as soon as possible following your ceremony. Your certified copy is then mailed to you within a short amount of time. This will be a “vital record” so please guard it as you would any other document. This certified copy is what you will need for any official work such as name changes etc. I, as an officiant will have no paperwork to give you that will serve as an official document.
2) How many witness’ do we need?
Two witness’ are needed at your ceremony, 18 years of age or over. (The number of witness’ needed or the minimum age may vary by state)
3) Is there a deposit needed?
Once hired a 50% deposit is required for all ceremonies scheduled 6 months or more away, your date cannot be secured without a deposit, deposits are non refundable but can be applied to any R/S date. Any date booked (hired) less then 6 months away does not require a deposit.
4) How do I pay?
You may use Pay Pal, credit/debit card, for payment or deposit. If not paid in full, the balance to be paid prior to the ceremony (the day of wedding) cash only. We do not take checks, (without prior approval).
5) Can I bring my own pastor?
*Yes, you can certainly bring a pastor of your choosing
6) How far do you travel for weddings?
I travel wherever the couple needs me to be, all parts of Iowa and beyond.
7) How many flowers can we bring?
You may bring your own flowers to the chapel, they must be removed at the end of the ceremony, anything left behind becomes the property of the chapel, we do not reimburse for floral arrangements left. Please keep in mind that the chapel is quite small. Real petals are used by the chapel inside and out, (if possible), artificial petals are never used outside as they interfere in the mowing and maintenance.
8) Can we bring a photographer?
Yes, you may bring any photographer you wish. We do not have one on staff, although we are not professional photographers, we will be happy to take a picture with your camera if you wish.
9) Do you offer military or senior discounts?
At this time, there is a discount for any active military personnel. Our senior discount start at age 60.
10) What type of ceremonies do you do?
I perform non-religious, non denominational, same sex marriages, vow renewal’s, commitment ceremonies and double weddings.
11) Can we simply get our marriage license signed without a ceremony or taking vows?
No, I am sorry, I do not do “license signing” only, a ceremony (vow exchange) no matter how small or simple of your choosing must take place.
12) Are your rates posted?
Ceremony rates start at $120 on site, off site they begin at $130.00 in the Des Moines area, pricing increases with distance, however do to the unique nature of each ceremony, please call or e-mail and let me know your ceremony needs and desires, I will be glad to give you a quote.
*Rates for Pastor “chapel only” ceremonies, $50.00 (cash only) chapel rate paid directly to Sunrise Chapel, Pastor fee is paid directly to pastor of your choice. Chapel only ceremonies scheduled for 1 hour. Chapel fee does not include rehearsal, extra fees apply if a rehearsal is needed.
515-444-3607