Weddings In New Jersey: What You Need To Know

New Jersey is a great place to get married, with its famous shoreline, Jersey City, and the Paterson Great Falls National Park. The state has a wide range of wedding venues, from glamorous hotels and chateaus to grand estates with indoor and outdoor options.

There are a few things to keep in mind when planning a wedding in New Jersey. Firstly, you must obtain a marriage license from your local registrar before the wedding. There is a three-day waiting period for the license, and it is valid for 30 days. The cost of the application is $28, and you must bring proof of identity and residency, as well as your Social Security number.

It's important to note that New Jersey does not recognize common-law marriage, so a wedding ceremony conducted by an approved officiant is necessary. The officiant can be a current or retired judge, mayor, country clerk, or authorized minister of religion.

The wedding industry in New Jersey is booming, with over 49,000 weddings taking place in both 2022 and 2023. The average cost of a wedding in the state is over $45,000, which is higher than the national average of $33,000.

So, if you're planning a wedding in New Jersey, make sure to allow enough time to obtain the necessary documents and be prepared for the high cost. But with the variety of venues and experienced vendors available, your special day is sure to be memorable!

Where to get married in New Jersey

If you're looking for the perfect place to tie the knot in the Garden State, there are plenty of unique destinations to choose from, whether you're dreaming of a sophisticated urban gala or a serene waterfront ceremony. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your New Jersey wedding:

Choosing a Location:

• Residency Requirements: If either you or your partner reside in New Jersey, you must apply for a marriage license in the municipality where either of you live. The license will then be valid throughout the state.
• Non-Resident Requirements: If neither of you are New Jersey residents, you must submit your application in the municipality where the marriage ceremony will take place. In this case, the license is only valid in that specific municipality.

Popular Wedding Venues in New Jersey:

• Shadowbrook at Shrewsbury: This venue offers a chance to book the entire estate, accommodating up to 600 guests. It features a romantic outdoor space, a grand ballroom with a spectacular fireplace, and a spacious dressing room.
• Pleasantdale Chateau: Set amidst expansive manicured grounds, Pleasantdale Chateau provides a fairy-tale setting for your wedding. It can host up to 350 guests and offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony options.
• Park Chateau Estate & Gardens: Located on 15 acres of picturesque land, this venue offers indoor and outdoor spaces, including a garden ceremony spot by a sparkling pond and a grand ballroom. It can accommodate up to 375 guests.
• The Estate at Florentine Gardens: With 4 acres of grounds and a Georgian-style mansion, this venue offers both indoor and outdoor options. The Grand Ballroom can host up to 360 guests, while the Cocktail Room accommodates 200.
• Ashford Estate: Part of the Weddings of Distinction collection, this venue features stone ruins, waterfalls, gardens, and amazing views. The unique Barn Chapel and the Grand Ballroom create a memorable setting. It accommodates up to 275 guests.
• Skylands Manor: Located in the Botanical Gardens of New Jersey, Skylands Manor offers a stunning backdrop for your wedding. With 100 acres of gardens, terraces, and a Tudor Revival mansion, it can host up to 600 guests.
• Natirar: A picturesque hilltop venue with a rich history, Natirar features a renovated mansion with indoor event spaces and 500 acres of land for outdoor ceremonies. The Ballroom can accommodate up to 225 guests.
• Crystal Plaza: This historic residence, built in the 19th century, boasts sparkling chandeliers and a Grand Ballroom that can host up to 400 guests. The beautiful grounds and gardens offer romantic photo backdrops.
• The Meadow Wood: A family-owned property rated as one of the best venues in the state, The Meadow Wood has both indoor and outdoor spaces. It can accommodate up to 500 guests and features a Grand Ballroom with a marble dance floor and customizable lighting.
• The Rockleigh: With its crown jewel, the Grand Pavilion, The Rockleigh offers a blend of elegance and a cozy atmosphere. It can accommodate between 250 and 850 guests and features both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a Grand Ballroom and charming gardens.
• The Venetian: A breathtaking venue with opulent decor, The Venetian offers both indoor and outdoor spaces. The Grand Ballroom accommodates over 300 guests, while the outdoor garden provides a picturesque backdrop for photos.
• The Reeds at Shelter Haven: This luxurious boutique hotel and spa is an ideal choice for a seaside wedding. It can accommodate up to 220 guests and offers various ceremony options, including a Roof Garden sundeck, beach, and bayfront lawn.

These are just a few of the many wonderful wedding venues New Jersey has to offer. Each venue has its unique charm and amenities, so you can find the perfect place to exchange your vows and celebrate your special day.

How to get a marriage license in New Jersey

Weddings can definitely happen in New Jersey! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get a marriage license in the state.

Step 1: Eligibility

To be eligible for a marriage license in New Jersey, you must be at least 18 years old. Same-sex couples are permitted to wed, but non-residents must apply for a license in the town/municipality where the ceremony will be held.

Step 2: Documentation

To apply for a marriage license, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state/federal ID)
• Proof of residency (if a New Jersey resident)
• Social Security number
• A witness, 18 years of age or older
• $28 application fee

If you have been married before, you will also need to provide proof of dissolution of the previous marriage. Any documents in a foreign language must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

Step 3: Application

You can obtain a marriage license application form online or at the Local Registrar's office. Do not sign the form before going to the Local Registrar; it must be signed under oath in the presence of the issuing authority.

You can submit your application at the Local Registrar's office or the town/municipal clerk. Both members of the couple must be physically present at the time of the request, though an attorney-in-fact can fill in for one party in certain circumstances.

Step 4: Waiting Period

There is a mandatory 72-hour waiting period after submitting your application before the marriage license is issued. This waiting period can be waived by the Superior Court in cases of emergency. The marriage license is then valid for 30 days.

Step 5: Finalize

Once you have the marriage license, you are ready to get married! After the ceremony, the officiant must complete and return the license to the Local Registrar or town/municipal clerk within 5 days for the marriage to be considered valid.

How much does a wedding in New Jersey cost?

Weddings in New Jersey are among the most expensive in the country, with the average wedding costing upwards of $62,000, according to The Knot. This is significantly higher than the national average wedding cost of around $34,000 in 2018. The high cost of weddings in New Jersey can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the large South Asian, Jewish, Catholic, Italian, and Hispanic populations in the state, who often have large and extravagant weddings. Additionally, the cost of living in New Jersey is generally higher than in many other states, which contributes to the higher cost of wedding venues and services.

The venue is typically the biggest expense for couples, with the average cost of a venue in New Jersey ranging from $20,000 to $29,000. This cost often includes food and beverage packages, which can be a significant expense. Other major wedding expenses include flowers and decor, photography, the ceremony site, wedding planning, videography, and the wedding dress. The average cost of these items for weddings above $60,000 is as follows:

• Flowers and decor: $6,050
• Photographer: $5,130
• Ceremony site: $2,966
• Wedding planner: $3,775
• Videographer: $3,214
• Wedding dress: $3,158

However, it is possible to have a wedding in New Jersey for less than the average cost. Many event spaces offer discounts and reduced guest minimums for off-peak weddings, such as late fall and winter, as well as for events held on Fridays, Sundays, or Saturday afternoons. Additionally, couples can save money by choosing a venue that allows them to bring their own caterer and alcohol, or by opting for cost-effective alternatives for floral arrangements, invitations, and catering.

For couples looking to stick to a budget without sacrificing their dream wedding, there are venues like TheArtFactory, which offers unique and versatile spaces that can accommodate up to 750 guests, and does not charge based on the number of guests invited. TheArtFactory also offers helpful tips for budgeting and provides a comprehensive list of top-notch vendors who offer cost-effective solutions.

Overall, the cost of a wedding in New Jersey can vary significantly depending on the couple's budget, priorities, and cultural background. While the average cost is upwards of $62,000, it is possible to have a beautiful and memorable wedding in New Jersey for less with careful planning and flexibility.

Who can officiate a wedding in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, a variety of individuals are authorised to officiate weddings. This includes judges, mayors, county clerks, and religious leaders. Specifically, any member of the clergy from recognised religious institutions, including those ordained online by organisations such as The Provenance Centre, can officiate weddings. The state also recognises civil celebrants who are certified by the Secretary of State to solemnise marriages.

The requirements for officiants in New Jersey are relatively broad. The state recognises both religious and civil figures who have been given authority to solemnise weddings by a larger institution. This includes religious officiants like priests and ministers, as well as civil celebrants, judges, and other representatives of the municipality.

If you are getting ordained online, it is recommended that you have your ordination documents on hand as proof of your credentials. While not always required, you may be asked to produce specific documentation to prove your status.

What are the legal requirements to get married in New Jersey?

Who can get married in New Jersey?

Same-sex couples are permitted to marry in New Jersey, regardless of whether they are residents or out-of-state visitors. However, non-residents must apply for a license in the town/municipality where the ceremony will take place.

In New Jersey, it is illegal to marry anyone considered a relative, including siblings, dependents, ancestors, or first cousins, whether related by blood or legal union.

Additionally, individuals under the age of 18 are not allowed to marry, regardless of parental consent.

How to apply for a marriage license in New Jersey:

To obtain a marriage license in New Jersey, couples must visit the town/municipal clerk or state registrar to receive an application form. Both members of the couple must be physically present at the time of requesting the application, though an attorney-in-fact can fill in for one party in certain circumstances.

The state requires applicants to bring photo identification and at least one other item to verify their identities, such as a driver's license, passport, or state/federal ID. The cost of the application is $28, and it must be paid when submitting the form.

The marriage license application is valid for six months from the date of acceptance. There is a 72-hour waiting period before the license is issued, and the couple must bring a witness of legal age to act as a witness to the transaction.

Finalizing the marriage:

Once the ceremony is complete, the officiant must fill out and submit the rest of the license to the town/municipal clerk or state registrar where it was issued. This must be done within 5 days of the ceremony for the license to be considered valid.

Who can perform marriages in New Jersey?

The state of New Jersey recognizes both religious and civil figures who have been authorized to solemnize weddings by a larger institution. This includes religious officiants like priests and ministers, as well as judges and other representatives of the municipality. Officiants who have been ordained online are considered religious actors and may require official paperwork confirming their status.

Frequently asked questions