Hello friends! Wedding planning isn’t all about cake tastings and dress fittings—there are some admin tasks to deal with too. I know it’s gross, but probably one of the most important details about getting married is making sure you’re actually married…legally!
For a wedding in the United States, that means a marriage license. Even then, every s...
For a wedding in the United States, that means a marriage license. Even then, every s...
Hello friends! Wedding planning isn’t all about cake tastings and dress fittings—there are some admin tasks to deal with too. I know it’s gross, but probably one of the most important details about getting married is making sure you’re actually married…legally!
For a wedding in the United States, that means a marriage license. Even then, every state’s requirements vary. It would be impossible (and boring) for me to get into each state’s specifics, so here are some general tips to get you started.
- Don’t leave it to the last minute! Seriously, the marriage license process can often be long and requires a bunch of paperwork. You’ll want to start researching months before your wedding so you have time to obtain things like your birth certificate if you don’t already have it.
- Be prepared for a fee. It usually isn’t particularly hefty (think $25-$100) but it’s often something couples forget to budget for. And when you’re tracking every dollar for your big day, this stuff adds up!
- Seek clarity. All the rules, requirements and documentation needed for a marriage license can be super confusing. Do your research online, but don’t be afraid to call the marriage/county clerk’s office if you need clarification on something. A quick phone call can save you a ton of headache.
- Timing is everything. Most marriage licenses are valid only for a certain period of time so you don’t want to apply for yours too early. Just make sure you have the license in hand at least a few weeks before your wedding. And be sure to check whether your state has a required waiting period between the time you apply for the license and when the wedding takes place.
- Don’t forget about it at the ceremony. On your wedding day, your officiant (and perhaps a witness or two) will sign the license and send it off to your county’s office for you. Your wedding day will be an absolute whirlwind so designate someone to be in charge of the marriage license and set aside a few minutes either before or after the ceremony to get everything signed.
- Keep it safe. Request 2-3 copies of your certified marriage license once it’s sent in. If you’re changing your name, you’ll need your certificate as proof of marriage for some entities. Keep at least one copy in an ultra-secure place, like a safe-deposit box.
Easy enough, right? Just do your research and you’ll be on your way to wedded bliss.
xox,
Mindy
Header photo courtesy of Flickr/wenzday01
