Ask to 5 Questions with Shawn Miller

Ask an Officiant: 5 Questions with Shawn Miller

March 22, 2017 Riana Ang-Canning

Today we’re sitting down with Young, Hip & Married Officiant & Owner, Shawn Miller. Shawn has been in the wedding game for 6.5 years which is when YH&M was born. He is currently available to officiate weddings in Vancouver, BC.

Describe yourself in 5 words

Curious. Introspective. Caring. Adventurous. Creative.

What’s your most memorable wedding moment?

I was officiating a wedding at the Vancouver Club that was super fancy. As the bride entered, she began to cry. And it wasn’t the nice kind of crying. It was the type of crying that every bride fears – the type of crying that makes it impossible to get a good picture. I’m talking about the uncontrollable dreaded ugly cry. As she got to the front the crying got worse and I could see the groom along with the guests start to get worried that she might not be able to stop. As I was about to start the ceremony, the MOH bent over to fluff the bride’s train. The MOH must not have been paying attention because as she bent over to fluff the train, her behind bumped into a giant vase filled with water and lilies. It was like time stood still. We all watched in horror as the vase tipped back, then forth, and then came crashing to the ground. There was water, glass and flowers everywhere including all over the bride’s dress. The entire room went dead silent for what seemed like minutes. But then, the bride let out a gigantic belly laugh and the room erupted in uncontrollable laughter. It was a potential disaster that turned out to be the best thing that could have happened. The bride snapped out of her crying and the ceremony was filled soulful laughter that was infectious. It was a magical moment.

What one piece of advice do you have for couples looking for an officiant?

There are two pieces of advice that are equally important. First, you need to look for chemistry with your officiant. If there is not chemistry, keep looking. Second, you need to make sure your officiant can deliver what you are looking for. Check out their reviews and ask for examples of their work.

What is your favourite part of a wedding ceremony?

My favourite part is always when the bride enters. There are so many great expressions that can be found in that single moment. You can look at the groom’s face, the parents’ faces, the guests’ faces and, of course, the bride’s face. Each one will tell you a different story.