California Weddings: What You Need To Know

California is a popular place to get married, with its Mediterranean-like coastline, snow-capped mountains, deserts, forests, and valleys. The state offers a wide range of wedding venues, from beaches to vineyards, mountains to golf courses, historic buildings to modern ballrooms, and everything in between.

California has a few requirements for the wedding ceremony. The couple must consent to the marriage with a proclamation of I do, and the minister must pronounce the couple legally married. The state requires the physical presence of the couple, the officiant, and at least one witness during the ceremony and when signing the marriage certificate. The only age requirement is that individuals must be 18 years old to marry, with exceptions for minors with parental consent. California does not have a residency requirement, so individuals from out of state or country can legally wed within its borders.

To get married in California, couples must first obtain a marriage license from a county clerk's office. The license is valid for 90 days, and the ceremony must take place within this window. There is no waiting period, so couples can marry as soon as they obtain the license. The signed license must be returned to the county clerk for filing within 10 days of the ceremony.

Who can officiate a wedding in California?

According to Section 400-402 of the California Family Code, any "authorised person of any religious denomination" may officiate a wedding. This includes individuals who have received online ordination from religious groups, as long as they are "recognised by the religious group as authorised".

In addition to online-ordained officiants, the following people are also allowed to officiate weddings in California:

• Active or retired judges
• Magistrates
• Justices
• County clerks
• Legislators or members of Congress

Many county clerks in California can also deputise individuals for a day to perform civil weddings under the "deputy for a day" program. This allows any adult who applies and pays a small fee to officiate a civil wedding for one specific couple on a particular day. However, this authorisation is limited to that one event.

For non-religious ceremonies, various officials can serve as wedding officiants, including:

• Justices of the peace
• Court clerks
• Both active and retired judges

For religious ceremonies, clergy members like priests, ministers, or rabbis can officiate a marriage. However, they may need to register with the county where the wedding is taking place, especially if it's outside their usual jurisdiction.

In Native American communities, leaders such as shamans or medicine men may perform religious marriages.

Where can a marriage ceremony be held in California?

If you're looking for a place to get married in California, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you're planning a grand celebration or an intimate gathering, the state offers a variety of locations to exchange your vows. Here are some options for where you can hold your marriage ceremony in California:

City Hall or County Clerk's Office:

A civil marriage ceremony can be performed by a marriage commissioner at City Hall or the County Clerk's Office. This option is suitable for couples who prefer a simple and straightforward ceremony.

Places of Worship:

If you envision a religious ceremony, you can choose to get married in a place of worship such as a church, temple, mosque, or any other religious institution that aligns with your beliefs.

Event Spaces:

California offers a wide range of event spaces that can accommodate weddings of different sizes and themes. These include banquet halls, hotels, restaurants, and even unique venues like museums or art galleries.

Outdoor Locations:

The Golden State boasts diverse natural landscapes, making it ideal for outdoor weddings. You can exchange your vows at beaches, parks, gardens, or even your own private residence. Some popular outdoor wedding destinations in California include:

• Beach weddings: With its stunning coastline, California offers numerous beaches for a romantic beach wedding, such as Malibu, Santa Barbara, and San Diego beaches.
• Park weddings: California State Parks provide a variety of scenic backdrops, from historic adobes to stately mansions and lush forests. Popular choices include Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Crystal Cove State Park, and El Capitán State Beach.
• Vineyard weddings: For a rustic and elegant setting, consider wineries and vineyards in regions like Napa Valley or Sonoma.
• Mountain weddings: If you're seeking a backdrop of majestic mountains, consider locations like Yosemite National Park or Lake Tahoe.

Other Unique Venues:

In addition to the traditional venues, California offers some unique spots for your special day. Here are a few ideas:

• Museums or art galleries: Celebrate your union surrounded by art and culture in venues like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art or the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.
• Botanical gardens: Surround yourself with natural beauty and vibrant flora at places like the San Francisco Botanical Garden or the Huntington Library and Gardens in San Marino.
• Yacht or boat weddings: Exchange your vows on the water with a wedding cruise along the California coast, offering breathtaking views as your backdrop.

No matter which location you choose, remember to check with the local regulations and obtain any necessary permits or licenses for your wedding ceremony. California offers a diverse range of venues to make your special day memorable, so you can find the perfect spot that aligns with your preferences and vision.

What are the legal requirements to get married in California?

To get married in California, you must obtain a marriage license from the County Clerk's office before your marriage ceremony. The marriage license application is an affidavit, and when you and your fiance(e) sign it, you are making a sworn statement that there are no legal impediments to the marriage. Here are the legal requirements to get married in California:

• Each prospective spouse must be 18 years of age or older to wed. Marriage licenses cannot be given to those under the age of 17 or blood relatives. However, if a 17-year-old wants to get married in California, they can do so with written consent from one parent or legal guardian, as well as written approval from a Superior Court Judge.
• You cannot be currently married. Divorces, annulments, and dissolutions of marriage must already be finalized. If either party was married in the last two years, they must provide proof of dissolution.
• You do not need to be a United States or California resident to purchase a California marriage license or to get married in California. However, some counties, like Napa County, will only issue a marriage license if one party is a resident of that county.
• The state marriage law does not require a blood test.
• Each party needs to bring a valid government photo identification, such as a driver's license, and both people must be present when applying for the license.
• The marriage license must be used within 90 days and signed by a proper officiant.

There are two types of marriage licenses in California: a public marriage license and a confidential marriage license. A public marriage license is the more traditional option, with no restrictions on where the couple lives. It requires the signature of at least one witness, in addition to the couple's and officiant's signatures. A confidential marriage license, on the other hand, is a confidential record, and only the couple can obtain information about it or order a certified copy. This option is often chosen by celebrities or couples who want to elope and keep their marriage private. The couple must be living together before the marriage and the license must be signed by an officiant, with no other witnesses required.

What is the process of getting a marriage license in California?

To get a marriage license in California, you must follow a specific process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

• Choose the type of marriage license: In California, there are two types of marriage licenses: a public marriage license and a confidential marriage license. The public marriage license is the more traditional option, with no restrictions on where the couple lives. It requires the signature of at least one witness, in addition to the couple's and officiant's signatures. On the other hand, the confidential marriage license is a more private option, where the couple must be living together, and no witnesses are required to sign.
• Meet the legal requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old and cannot be blood relatives. If either party is under 18, written consent from a parent or legal guardian, as well as approval from a Superior Court Judge, is necessary. Additionally, both parties must be unmarried, and if previously married, provide proof of divorce, annulment, or death of the former spouse.
• Apply for the marriage license: Visit any County Clerk's office in California to apply for the license. Both parties must apply in person and bring valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Some counties may also require certified copies of birth certificates and information about your parents, including their names, mothers' maiden names, and places of birth. It is recommended to call ahead or check the County Clerk's website for specific requirements and to schedule an appointment, as there may be long lines.
• Pay the application fee: The cost of applying for a marriage license varies by county and can range from $60 to $110. Some counties only accept cash payments, so it is important to check with the County Clerk's office beforehand.
• Receive the marriage license: After submitting your application, you will be given your marriage license immediately. It is important to note that the marriage license is only valid for 90 days, so you must use it within that time frame.
• Get married within 90 days: There is no waiting period after receiving your marriage license. You can get married immediately or anytime within the 90-day validity period. The marriage ceremony must be performed by an authorized person, such as a civil marriage commissioner, minister, priest, or rabbi.
• File the marriage license after the ceremony: Your officiant is legally required to file your marriage license with the county within 10 days of the ceremony.
• Obtain a certified copy of the marriage certificate: After the completed and signed license is processed, you can purchase a certified copy of your marriage certificate from the county clerk. This serves as proof of your legal marriage.

Remember to bring your marriage license on your wedding day, as your officiant cannot legally marry you without it. By following these steps, you will be well on your way to obtaining a marriage license and having a legally recognized marriage in California.

What are the best wedding venues in California?

California is a great place for a wedding, with its Mediterranean climate, mountains, forests, ocean views, deserts, beaches, cities, and rustic ranches.

Santa Margarita Ranch, Santa Margarita

A gem within a 900-acre piece of the California-mission system, Santa Margarita Ranch is at the base of grassy hills where many couples say "I do". Dinner and dancing are typically held in the Asistencia barn, and a vintage Disneyland train takes guests between locations.

Ace Hotel, Downtown Los Angeles

The Ace Hotel has handcrafted furniture, a vinyl library, art installations, and a restored Spanish-Gothic theatre. It has been the centre of gravity of the new downtown since it opened in 2014 in the United Artists skyscraper, which was built in 1924.

Arista Winery, Healdsburg

Arista Winery comprises a trio of flexible event spaces: Oak Groove, where you can dine and dance among century-old oak trees; a tiered lawn for cocktails; and a pavilion with views of the Russian River Valley.

The Beverly Hilton, Beverly Hills

Celebrate in the world's most famous zip code and serve the official Golden Globes menu in the ballroom where the awards are handed out. Alternatively, cut a rug in the Stardust Penthouse, just like Sofia Vergara.

Calistoga Ranch, Calistoga

After-parties in Calistoga Ranch's wine cave avoid the 10 pm noise ordinance. Following a poolside ceremony, dine with up to 120 guests on the Lommel Lawn, overlooking Lake Lommel and buffered by mountains.

The Carneros Inn, Napa

All 86 cottages at the Caneros Inn exude luxury thanks to private gardens, fire pits, and outdoor showers. Ride loaner bikes to a DIY winery picnic with fixings from the inn's gourmet food store. For the big day, choose from the apple orchard or the hilltop dining room with panoramic views (seating 80). For larger groups (up to 175 guests), two ballrooms are connected by a courtyard.

Carondelet House, Los Angeles

A 1928 Italianate manse with exposed brick, paned windows, tufted couches, sun-dappled courtyards, and arched doorways, Carondelet House provides the ideal setting for vintage styling.

Catalina Island

The southernmost Channel Island, Catalina Island offers everything from adventures (kayaking, parasailing) to architecture, like the 1929 casino. Recent additions like Island Spa Catalina and Descanso Beach Club's new ballroom have increased the spot's wedding worthiness.

Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery, Healdsburg

Venues at Chalk Hill include an outdoor park, a mission-style chapel, and a large pavilion nearly covered in windows.

Coronado Island

Minutes from Downtown San Diego, Coronado Island is one of the best California wedding venues by the beach. It has a relaxing hamlet with award-winning beaches and 70-degree temps. The jewel of Crown City — and a top wedding spot — is Hotel del Coronado, rumoured to be the inspiration for the Wizard of Oz's Emerald City.

The Grand Del Mar, San Diego

In July 2014, former NFL running back Reggie Bush wed at the Grand Del Mar, which offers the Aria Lawn and Moroccan Pavilion for events.

Malibu Rocky Oaks, Malibu

Located 30 minutes from Los Angeles, Malibu Rocky Oaks is a great option for those wanting to be near the beach and to have their reception overlooking the sea.

The Bungalow, Santa Monica

Kick off your wedding weekend in the Bungalow at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel. The upscale surf shack flaunts retro-cottage décor, marquee-letter lights that spell "amor", ping pong, pool tables, ocean views, and food from the resort's farm-friendly restaurant, FIG.

West Shore, Lake Tahoe

In the summer, Lake Tahoe's namesake takes centre stage. West Shore's indoor and outdoor event spaces make the most of the picturesque views.

The Malibu Garden Estate, Malibu

The Malibu Garden Estate overlooks Monte Nido's Malibu Canyon and is one of the most beautiful outdoor wedding venues in California. The cobblestone-surrounded pool and covered patio are perfect for cocktail hour, while the spacious living room with high ceilings and a fireplace make for a dreamy reception. The venue can accommodate 300+ guests and you have access to an event planner and accommodations onsite.

Exploratorium, San Francisco

If you're looking for wedding venues in Northern California, the Exploratorium is a fantastic option. This modern museum venue is located in Embarcadero and boasts views of the city skyline and the bay. It features a number of galleries that can be rented out for your special day, including the Fisher Bay Observatory and Terrace, which can accommodate 200 people for a ceremony and 150 for a banquet reception.

Sparrow Valley Resort, Aptos

At Sparrow Valley Resort, you'll be surrounded by redwood trees, Valencia Creek, and the Santa Cruz mountains. This nature trifecta creates an enchanting venue to celebrate one of life's biggest moments. It's just an hour from San Jose.

Villa Montalvo at the Montalvo Arts Center, Saratoga

This Mediterranean-style mansion transports you from Northern California to a European castle. The Montalvo Arts Center is set on 150+ acres of greenery, romantic gardens, hundred-year-old fountains, and one-of-a-kind artwork.

Frequently asked questions