If you've ever dreamed of saying the words "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife (or husband and husband, or wife and wife)!" or wanted to have your wedding ceremony performed by someone who isn't a complete stranger, then consider getting yourself or a friend ordained over the Internet. It takes about five minutes, is generally free, and in return, you can legally perform wedding ceremonies and be called minister.

A well-known and popular way to be ordained online is through the Universal Life Church [1]. Nondenominational and nondogmatic, the church charges no fee for online ordination. Just submit your application, and someone will get back to you within 24 hours. The site also has a list of state-by-state legal considerations [2] to check out.

Once you're ordained, don't go crazy marrying every couple you come in to contact with, OK?