It is not at all unusual to seek competent advice and officiating. With competent counseling, one can begin to address the issues which are of common concern when considering inter- marriage. Throughout much of history religious factors have sadly divided human beings. Many have been persecuted because of overzealousness on the part of those who hate because of religious differences. Bigotry and misguided ethnic allegiances have hardened the lines of communication between religious groupings.
Intermarriage is seen by many as a disassociation with family heritage.
Yes, any individual who desires to do so can inquire about becoming a member of the Jewish faith community. I thought that only those born into Judaism can be Jewish. Yes, the majority of those who are Jewish are Jewish by virtue of having been born into Judaism. But that does not mean that others are precluded from choosing to be Jewish. For instance, a child through adoption and specific rites and rituals can be a member of the Jewish faith community.