Karen Q. Smith, Justice of the Peace, District 6 & Notary Public

06/16/2026

Sharing a quick message for anyone planning a ceremony this year. My SATURDAY dates are mostly spoken for, but there are still some openings for later in the year. Weekday ceremonies remain available. If you would like to check a specific date, just give me a call or send me a message and we'll get your special day scheduled!

06/12/2026

I'm so grateful for clients who take a moment to share kind words. I love helping people through their important moments and helping them prepare the documents the protect their peace of mind.

05/18/2026

🇺🇸 ATTN: St. Landry Parish Residents:
Bayou State will be CLOSED next Monday, May 25th in honor of Memorial Day. Our collection schedule for next week is as follows:

04/26/2026

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Duplechain! I don't have a photo (but hope to get one soon). This beautiful couple was my milestone couple, my 200th officiated ceremony. I created a ceremony keepsake for them as a special lagniappe. I pray both of my couples have a beautiful and happy marriage!

04/24/2026

The final touches for tomorrow's ceremonies are done, and the last drafts are tucked into my book. This weekend holds something special - my 199th and 200th wedding ceremonies, all in the same week that my husband and I celebrate our own anniversary.

I'm humbled every single time a couple trusts me with one of the most important moments of their lives. That trust is never taken lightly. I get the best spot in the room - close enough to witness the love, the nerves, the joy, and the quiet promises that only a couple can truly understand.

I feel incredibly fortunate to do this work as a judge - to stand with people on a day filled with hope and intention, and to help make their ceremony feel as meaningful and personal as it deserves to be.

Here's to the couples who invite me into their stories, to the families who welcome me with kindness, to the new friends I've made along the way, and to the work that continues to fill my heart with gratitude.

Congratulations to all of the happy couples I've had the honor to officiate - and to the ones yet to come!

Send a message to learn more

04/21/2026

There are THOUSANDS of Notaries dealing with suspension due to the new bond requirements. I AM NOT one of those notaries. I was one of the first to be in compliance when they opened submissions. If you need any Notary services, you can feel confident that I remain ACTIVE!

Louisiana non-attorney notaries: check your commission status.

A law passed by the Louisiana Legislature in 2025 now requires all non-attorney notaries to maintain a $50,000 surety bond (up from $10,000).

Those who did not meet the requirement may have had their commissions suspended.

Verify your status today: https://sos.la.gov/NotaryAndCertifications

04/16/2026

Rocky was nice enough to share my post, but added a little to it! Thanks Rocky Laviolette! This means a lot to me!

04/14/2026

Title company had some problems and this was the Borrower's 3rd signing. They were frustrated, rightly so, but had total confidence in me. Thankful to all of my "expert witnesses" that help me accommodate these requests.

04/13/2026

The Peggy Martin roses are blooming and it's the most beautiful time to get married at the rose arbor! $100-$150 will get you a sweet, intimate, personalized ceremony with up to10 guests. I'm a Justice of the Peace in Arnaudville and this is on my property. If you were trying to decide if you wanted something small in the next week or two, here's your sign! Give me a call and we can get you in while the roses are in full bloom. 337.852.1705.