Civil Wedding At Home: Is It Possible?

Civil weddings are a popular choice for couples who want a non-religious ceremony that is legally recognised. A civil ceremony can be held anywhere and can be personalised to reflect the couple's unique love story. While the legal requirements for a civil ceremony vary by location, they generally include obtaining a marriage license, providing identification, and having at least two witnesses present. Couples can also choose to add personal touches to their civil ceremony, such as writing their own vows, selecting meaningful music, and incorporating decorative elements.

Choosing a location

Location Significance

If you're opting for a civil ceremony, you might want to choose a location that holds special significance for you and your partner. This could be the city where you met and fell in love, your current hometown, or a place that has a meaningful connection to your relationship. Don't feel limited to your local government building if it doesn't feel right; you can travel to another destination and make it part of your honeymoon or a family vacation.

Legal Requirements

It's essential to research the legal requirements for your desired location. In some places, like the UK, you need to give notice of your intention to marry at least 28 days in advance. There may also be specific documents and identification requirements, such as valid IDs, birth certificates, and marriage licenses. Be sure to check the rules for your chosen location to ensure your marriage will be legally recognized.

Venue Options

Civil ceremonies can be held in a variety of venues, depending on the location. In the UK, for example, civil ceremonies can take place in approved venues like country houses, hotels, or outdoor settings. In contrast, some places, like the US, often have civil weddings in courthouses or city halls. If you have a specific venue in mind, check with the local authorities to see if it's approved for civil weddings.

Guest Capacity

Consider the number of guests you plan to invite when choosing a location. Civil weddings typically have smaller guest lists, and different venues will have varying capacity restrictions. If you're getting married in a courthouse or city hall, there may be limits on the number of guests you can bring. If you're opting for an outdoor venue or a private location, you'll have more flexibility in guest capacity.

Availability and Appointment

Research the availability of your desired location and whether you need to make an appointment. In some places, like New York City, couples are required to make an appointment for their wedding ceremony. There may also be significant wait times for appointments, so plan ahead, especially if you have a specific date in mind. Alternatively, some locations, like Dallas County in Texas, allow walk-in weddings as long as you pay the required fee and the judge is available.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a location that feels right for you and your partner. Whether it's an intimate gathering in a cozy venue or a larger celebration in a stunning location, your civil wedding ceremony should reflect your unique love story and leave a lasting impression.

Marriage license requirements

• Give notice: In some places, such as the UK, you are required to give notice of your intention to marry at least 28 days before the ceremony. This involves contacting your local registry office and providing details about your chosen venue. There may be additional steps, so it's important to check with your local authorities.
• Book your venue: In certain places, such as England and Wales, civil ceremonies can only take place at approved venues. If you plan to get married at a different location, you may need to register your marriage at a local registry office before or after the ceremony.
• Book the registrar: In a civil ceremony, the registrar acts as the official celebrant. They conduct the ceremony, ensure legal compliance, and register the marriage. You will need to book the registrar after you have confirmed your venue.
• Provide necessary documents: When giving notice or applying for a marriage license, you will typically need to provide proof of your name, age, and nationality. This could include a valid passport, birth certificate, driver's license, or other forms of government-issued photo identification. If you have changed your name, you must provide proof of that as well. Additionally, if you have been previously married or in a domestic partnership, you may need to provide documentation of how and when that relationship ended.
• Pay the required fees: Obtaining a marriage license and booking a registrar typically come with certain fees. These fees vary depending on your location and the type of license or ceremony you choose. For example, there may be different costs for a public marriage license versus a confidential marriage license.
• Meet age requirements: In most places, both parties must be at least 18 years old to obtain a marriage license. If either party is under the age of 18, you may need to obtain special approval or follow additional procedures.
• Provide witnesses: The requirements for witnesses can vary. Some places require at least one or two witnesses to be present at the ceremony and to sign the marriage license. In other cases, no witnesses are needed. Check your local requirements to ensure you comply with witness requirements.
• Follow timing restrictions: Marriage licenses typically have a validity period, such as 90 days from the issue date. This means you must have your ceremony within that timeframe for the license to be valid. There may also be waiting periods between obtaining the license and having the ceremony.

Applying for the license

Applying for a marriage license is a crucial step in the process of having a civil wedding at home. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the application process:

• Choose Your Marriage Location: Marriage licenses are issued based on the legal wedding ceremony location. Determine the city, district, and county where your wedding will take place, and then find out the specific requirements for that region. The rules can vary, so it's important to refer to the marriage license information for your chosen location.
• Set Your Wedding Date: It is important to set your wedding date in advance as there is a specific time window around your wedding date within which you must apply for, receive, sign, and submit your marriage license. Aim to file for the license early, preferably 90 days or at least one week before your wedding. Keep in mind that some states have a mandatory waiting period between granting the license and your wedding, which can range from 24 hours to 72 hours.
• Decide on Name Change: Discuss and decide whether you will be changing your surname after marriage. The marriage license application may ask about this, and it's best to have a clear answer beforehand. If you're unsure, you can work with a name change service after the wedding to make the process smoother.
• Gather Required Documentation: The required documents may vary by state or region, but generally, you will need to provide proof of age (such as a birth certificate), photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.), social security number, and proof of citizenship or residence. If you were previously married, you will also need to provide proof of divorce or widowhood.
• Apply for the Marriage License: Visit the appropriate office (city hall, town or city clerk's office, or marriage license bureau) with your future spouse and any required witnesses. The cost of the marriage license can range from $35 to $150, so be prepared to pay the fee. Some offices may also have specific requirements, such as scheduling an appointment or allowing walk-in visits.
• Sign and Submit the Marriage License: Don't forget to bring your marriage license to your wedding ceremony. After the ceremony, ensure that the couple, witnesses, and officiant sign the marriage license. The officiant will then submit the signed license to the local officials within a specified time frame for certification.
• Obtain a Marriage Certificate: The marriage certificate is a certified copy of the marriage registration that you can obtain after the marriage license has been certified. In some states, you will receive it automatically by mail, while in others, you may need to order and purchase copies. This document serves as proof of marriage for various legal and administrative purposes.

Remember to carefully review the specific requirements and procedures for your chosen wedding location, as they may differ from the general guidelines provided above. Each state or region may have unique processes and requirements, so it's essential to refer to the relevant sources for your specific location.

Booking an appointment

Choose a Location:

Firstly, select a location that holds special significance for you and your partner. This could be the place where you met, fell in love, or currently reside. Don't feel limited to your local government building if it doesn't resonate with you. You can even travel to another destination and make it part of your honeymoon or a family vacation.

Research Marriage License Requirements:

Before booking, familiarize yourself with the marriage license requirements for your chosen location. These requirements vary across different cities and countries. For instance, in the UK, you must give notice of your intention to marry at least 28 days before the ceremony. In contrast, US states like Texas may not require an appointment if certain conditions are met. Understanding these requirements will help you plan accordingly.

Gather Necessary Documents:

To book your appointment, you will typically need to provide specific documents. These often include valid IDs, birth certificates, proof of address, divorce or death certificates (if applicable), and a community tax certificate. Some locations, like the Philippines, may also require a Certificate of No Marriage (CENOMAR) to ensure neither party has been previously married.

Contact the Local Registry Office:

Get in touch with the local registry office or the relevant authority to schedule your appointment. Inquire about their specific requirements, fees, and availability. They will guide you through the process and inform you of any necessary steps, such as providing documentation or completing forms.

Prepare Additional Details:

While booking, clarify other important details, such as the maximum number of guests allowed, the possibility of reciting your own vows, and any restrictions on decorations or personal touches you wish to include. Additionally, confirm whether you need to bring your own witnesses or if the officiant will be provided.

Make the Appointment:

Once you have gathered all the necessary information and documents, go ahead and make the appointment for your desired date and time. Keep in mind that there may be a significant wait for appointments, especially during peak seasons or in high-demand locations. Therefore, it is advisable to plan ahead and book as early as possible.

Remember, the requirements and procedures may differ based on your location, so always research and follow the guidelines provided by your local authorities to ensure a smooth booking process for your civil wedding ceremony.

Planning the ceremony

Planning a civil wedding ceremony at home can be a complicated process, but it is possible. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan the ceremony:

Choose a Location:

Firstly, you need to decide where you want the ceremony to take place. This could be your own home, a local courthouse, or another venue that holds significance for you and your partner. If you choose to have the ceremony at home, make sure to check if there are any legal restrictions or requirements for your desired location.

Research Marriage License Requirements:

Before finalizing your location, research the marriage license requirements for your chosen area. These requirements can vary depending on the state, county, or city in which you plan to wed. There may be specific documents you need to provide, such as valid IDs, birth certificates, and proof of address. There may also be a waiting period for obtaining the license, so it is essential to plan ahead.

Apply for the Marriage License:

Once you have researched the requirements, it's time to apply for your marriage license. This process typically involves providing the necessary documents, such as IDs, birth certificates, and social security numbers. Make sure to use a black pen when signing any documents, as some city halls may send them back if signed in another color.

Choose an Officiant:

Civil wedding ceremonies are typically presided over by a legal official, such as a judge, magistrate, justice of the peace, county or court clerk, or notary public. In some cases, you may be able to choose your own officiant, such as a friend or family member who gets ordained online. However, check with your local laws, as not all states recognize online ordinations.

Create a Guest List:

Civil wedding ceremonies are usually more intimate affairs, and there may be restrictions on the number of guests you can invite. Be sure to check the rules for your chosen location before extending any invitations. You will also need to decide if you want a maid of honor, best man, or any other members of the wedding party.

Plan the Ceremony Details:

Start planning the details of the ceremony, including any personal touches you want to add. You may be able to incorporate elements such as personalized vows, special readings, music selections, and decorative elements. If you are working with an officiant, they can guide you on what is allowed and provide you with a template for your vows.

Choose Your Outfits:

Civil ceremonies allow for more relaxed and personalized outfit choices. You can choose something formal or casual, depending on your style and the mood you want to set for the day. If you wish to wear a traditional wedding dress or suit, go for it! It's your day, so choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and happy.

Finalize the Logistics:

Don't forget to take care of the practical details, such as booking a photographer, choosing a date and time for the ceremony, and making any necessary travel arrangements for yourself and your guests. If you plan to have a reception or after-party, be sure to include those plans in your timeline as well.

Frequently asked questions