Today on the blog we’d love to introduce you to Jordan Shaw, one of our fabulous Victoria wedding officiants helping couples tie the knot on Vancouver Island. Keep reading to hear why Jordan loves officiating weddings, some of this best ceremony experiences, and his advice for couples looking for a wedding officiant!
And meet the rest of our Vancouver Island & Victoria wedding officiant team here!
Please introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Jordan, and I am a Victoria wedding officiant on Vancouver Island! I also work in Spiritual Care for a non-profit, where I provide spiritual and emotional care and support for individuals struggling with homelessness and substance use.
I’ve been working with Young Hip and Married for just over a year now. I’m pretty busy working two jobs, but when I’m not working I also love spending time with my kids, hiking, watching movies, and playing video games!
above & feature image by Kyle Joinson Photo
What is the best part about officiating weddings?
I love helping people to tell their stories. Stories are part of what connects us as human beings. During a wedding, I love helping the couple make their story come to life in a new and refreshing way. I see myself as a facilitator and guide; the story is really about you!
The most challenging part?
The challenging part around officiating is the pressure I put on myself. I want your wedding to be absolutely perfect, and I would be lying if I said I don’t still feel some nerves just before the couple walks down the aisle! I use that energy as a catalyst to make sure everything is exactly as it should be.
Why should couples get married in Victoria or on Vancouver Island?
I was born and raised on Vancouver Island, and absolutely love this place. The Greater Victoria Area has so many unique venues, ranging from perfect hideaways for elopements, to grand and beautiful hotels and halls that are excellent for larger gatherings. I especially love weddings that incorporate some of our local culture and environment!
What are some of your favourite wedding venues or elopement locations on Vancouver Island?
I love Cedar Haven near Sooke. It’s an incredible and intimate venue nestled right in the forest! East Sooke has many B&B’s and smaller vacation rentals overlooking the water, perfect for smaller or mid-sized weddings. Sea Cider is an orchard and wedding venue in Saanich, and is a fantastic place to get married!
And of course, for those looking for a truly grand and lavish experience, there is The Empress, right in the heart of Victoria!
by Rivkah Photography
Share a wedding story! What’s the most memorable wedding you’ve ever officiated?
I’ve had so many lovely weddings this past year it’s hard to pick just one! During one of my first custom weddings the couple toasted with Caesars, drunk out of custom engraved mason jars they had made while they were dating.
Another took place on a tiny island near Sidney, BC. Everyone in attendance camped on the island and the ceremony itself took place on a rock bluff overlooking the ocean. Truly spectacular!
When meeting with a couple, what’s the first question you like to ask them?
I like to ask a couple about their story. What brought them together? What are their shared interests and values? And why have they chosen their particular date?
What is the best compliment a couple has ever given you?
A couple once told me that their guests thought I was a close personal friend of theirs! This is the best compliment.
If you had one piece of advice for couples looking for a Victoria wedding officiant, what would it be?
Take your time! Pick someone who matches your energy and values, someone who will make your day enjoyable and memorable!
What is your dream ceremony setting?
I would love to do an adventure elopement by helicopter one day! Performing a wedding on the top of a mountain sounds amazing.
Thank you so much to Victoria officiant Jordan for taking the time to share some wedding wisdom and stories with us. Learn more about Jordan here, meet the rest of our team and get in touch to book your wedding officiant today!
Riana Ang-Canning has been working with Young Hip & Married since 2017. She is a professional content writer with experience in travel, lifestyle and weddings. Riana not only writes Young Hip & Married blog posts but is also involved with the company's internal communications, social media, copywriting and more. She knows YHM, and the wedding world, inside and out!
