With the engagement season in full-force (statistically there are more engagements between Thanksgiving and New Years than any other time of the year) it seems appropriate to address some of the basics that the newly-engaged will need to know, starting with the oh-so-important officiant.
It's not too difficult to obtain a marriage license in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Clerks of the Court in the various regions can assist you within 60 days of your wedding upon presentation of appropriate identification, proof of age and if necessary, proof of dissolution of previous marriages. The marriage license costs $30 and there is no blood test or waiting period. Check the county website in the area you plan to marry, or, if you live in Virginia, your hometown for specifics.
Becoming an officiant is trickier, and the standards vary from county to county. Couples who dream of having a friend peform their ceremony will need to look farther than online ordination services. Virginia is a pretty conservative state with a more stringent vetting policy for those looking to obtain a commission to perform legal ceremonies.
If your friend is a legitimate clergy member with a congregation, have him contact your county clerk and find out if it is possible to submit the proper proof and obtain a commission. If your friend is not a qualifying clergy member, you still have options.
Consider hiring a marriage commissioner (something like a justice of the peace) to perform the civil rights required for legal marriage and have your friend preside over the ceremonial rights. Alternatively, you could consider getting married at home in advance and sharing an unofficial version of the ceremony with your loved ones on the wedding day.
Always confirm the requirements and restrictions with your local Clerk of the Court to be sure that nothing has been modified well in advance of your ceremony. It's best to be prepared!
