Altar - The physical location where the ceremony will take place.

Certification - The act of authorization required to perform ceremonies by a governing body. In North Carolina, non-church affiliated ministers must be sanctioned by organizations recognized by the state. Such organizations include World Christianship Ministries, Universal Ministries and the Universal Life Church.

Membership - Depending on the site, this term refers to any associated affiliations required to use the space. In most cases, if you are not a member, you must only pay an additional guest or membership fee to use the space.

National Association of Wedding Officiants - NAWO is the governing body to non-denominational wedding officiants across the country. Members must be licensed/credentialed by their individual state and/or community or by accepted ordination by the state and/or community to perform ceremonies and sign legal documentation and must show proof of license, ordination or ministry . For more information about NAWO and its North Carolina members, log onto: www.northcarolina.nawoonline.com

Non-denominational - A religiously influenced officiant, ceremony or venue that is not affiliated with any specific religion.

Officiant - A person who is legally and in some cases, spiritually, certified to perform wedding ceremonies in the state of North Carolina. These persons may or may not be affiliated with a local church, synagogue or place of worship.

Rehearsal - An actual run-through of your wedding ceremony. It typically takes place the evening before the wedding.

Religious Affiliation - Referring to churches, this refers to the specific religion governing this site.