U.S. — A 2026 survey conducted by The Knot indicates that 67% of couples are choosing a friend to officiate their wedding ceremony. This proportion represents an increase from 2009, when 27% of couples utilized a friend as their wedding officiant. The Knot estimates that more than 2 million couples will get married in 2026.

The Knot's editorial director, Esther Lee, commented on this trend, stating that "Gen Z culture is really infiltrating the wedding industry, and they just do not do things in a standard, traditional way." Lee added, "They are scrutinizing every aspect of the wedding day in a sense of 'How do I make this speak to my story?'"

Lee offered advice for those asked to officiate. "Take the role seriously," she said. "Put a lot of hours and thought into how the ceremony will go." She also stated, "Don't wing it. You can't wing it." Lee noted that the officiant is in charge of telling everyone in the congregation what to do during the wedding.

In some jurisdictions, wedding officiants are required to be ordained ministers. The Universal Life Church ordains ministers online and states it has ordained 20 million people. Two individuals, Ryan Benk and Ryan Ricciardi, were married by their friend Cesar Garcia in 2026.

Why It Matters

The increasing number of couples choosing friends to officiate their weddings indicates a shift in traditional wedding practices in the United States. This trend reflects evolving preferences among couples, particularly among the Generation Z demographic, to personalize their wedding ceremonies. The prevalence of this practice means that many individuals chosen to officiate may need to understand local legal requirements, such as ordination, and the practical responsibilities involved in managing a wedding ceremony.