Who Should Stand Beside You At Your Civil Ceremony?

Civil ceremonies are a non-religious, legal marriage presided over by a legal official. They are often held at a city hall but can take place anywhere. Civil ceremonies are appealing to couples for a variety of reasons, including cost, religion, and venue flexibility. While the process is similar to a religious ceremony, there is no mention of religion or God unless requested by the couple. Couples can personalise their civil ceremony by writing their own vows, choosing their own music, and including readings.

Civil ceremonies are non-religious and legally binding

A civil ceremony can take place anywhere—from a beach to a courthouse or even a greenhouse. It can be as small and intimate or as large and extravagant as you like. The process is similar to a religious ceremony, except there is no mention of religion or God unless specifically requested by the couple. Officiants are usually flexible and often ask for input from the couple.

To make it official, you will need to obtain a marriage license and may need to bring witnesses, depending on the location. There are usually limits on the number of guests you can invite, especially if you are getting married at a courthouse.

Civil ceremonies are often appealing to couples for a variety of reasons. They usually come with a smaller price tag, are more flexible in terms of venue options, and can help navigate religious differences or family drama.

They can be held anywhere

A civil ceremony can be held anywhere, from a beach to a courthouse to a greenhouse. The ceremony location is up to you and your partner.

If you're interested in getting married in a courthouse, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, check if the courthouse takes appointments or is first-come, first-served. Some courthouses are popular venues and book up far in advance, so it's best to make an appointment as soon as possible. Additionally, find out if you can recite your own vows, as some courthouses may have time restrictions that limit personal touches. Finally, find out how many guests you can invite, as there may be a limit that includes your photographer and other vendors.

If you're looking for a more non-traditional venue, many private premises are licensed to hold civil ceremonies. Parks, gardens, banquet halls, and hotels are all possible options for your ceremony. You can also hold your reception at the same venue, making it convenient for you and your guests. Ultimately, the formality and style of the ceremony are entirely up to you and your partner's tastes.

You can wear whatever you like

A civil ceremony is a non-religious, legal marriage ceremony. It is presided over by a legal official, such as a judge, magistrate, justice of the peace, county or court clerk, or notary public. A civil ceremony can be held anywhere—from a beach to a courthouse—and can include a larger guest list.

When it comes to what to wear to a civil ceremony, the short answer is: anything you like! You can wear whatever you feel comfortable and happy in. There are no strict rules when it comes to a civil ceremony dress code, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the location of your ceremony may have an impact on your outfit choice. If you're getting married in a courthouse, for example, there may be limited space, so it's best to avoid large or complicated outfits. Secondly, you may want to consider the level of formality you want to convey. While you can certainly have fun and be creative with your outfit, it's still a wedding, so it's generally a good idea to avoid very casual clothing like jeans, t-shirts, or club attire.

For brides, a shorter, simpler dress in a lightweight fabric can be a great option. You can also go for a more contemporary look with an off-the-shoulder beaded top and a white midi skirt, or even choose a coloured dress for a modern statement. If you want to add some glamour, consider a minimalist wedding dress that you can dress up with contrasting accessories, jewellery, and stilettos.

For grooms, a suit in a preferred shade is always a good choice. You can go for a classic look with a grey or black suit, or opt for something more modern with slacks and a sports jacket in a fun colour like navy blue or burgundy. If you want to keep it casual, khakis and a crisp white button-down shirt can be a great option, especially for spring or fall ceremonies.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose an outfit that makes you feel happy and comfortable. It's your special day, so wear whatever feels right for you and don't be afraid to have a little fun with your style choices!

You'll need a marriage license

A civil ceremony is a non-religious, legal marriage ceremony. If you want your civil ceremony to be legally recognised, you will need a marriage license. Here is what you need to know about obtaining a marriage license:

Choose Your Marriage Location

Marriage licenses are issued to couples based on their legal wedding ceremony location. Before applying for a marriage license, you will need to decide on a location. Once you know the municipality (city, district, and county) of your nuptials, you can locate where to obtain the license. The rules can vary by region and state, so be sure to refer to the specific requirements of your chosen location.

Set Your Wedding Date

It is important to set your wedding date as there is a specific time window around this date within which you must apply for, receive, sign, and submit your marriage license. It is recommended to file as early as 90 days or at least one week before your wedding. Additionally, be aware that marriage licenses can expire, so you must get the timing right for your jurisdiction.

Decide Whether You Will Change Your Name

The marriage license application may ask if you plan to change your surname after marriage. It is recommended to have this discussion before filing for the license, as the city clerk's office may not be the ideal place to weigh your name change options. If you prefer to wait, you can work with a name change service after the wedding to make the process smoother.

Apply for a Marriage License

To apply for a marriage license, you and your future spouse will need to visit the relevant office together, either in person or virtually. In some states, you may be required to bring a witness.

Bring Your Documentation

The requirements for documentation vary by state, but you will generally need to provide the following:

• Proof of age (e.g. birth certificate)
• Parental consent if underage (usually under 18)
• Photo ID (e.g. driver's license, passport)
• Social Security number
• Proof of citizenship and/or residence
• Both your parents' full birth names, birth dates, and birth states, or date of passing if deceased
• Divorce decree, if previously married
• Death certificate, if widowed

Pay the Marriage License Fee

The marriage license fee varies depending on the office and can range from $35 to $150. Check which methods of payment are accepted, such as cash, debit card, credit card, check, or money order.

Receive Your Marriage License

Depending on the office's hours and procedures, you may receive your marriage license in person at the time of application or by mail a few days later.

Sign and Submit Your Marriage License

Don't forget to bring your marriage license to your wedding ceremony. After the ceremony, the couple, witnesses, and officiant will need to sign the license.

Get a Marriage Certificate

The issuance of a marriage certificate occurs after the marriage license has been certified by local officials. In some states, the marriage certificate is automatically sent to the newlywed couple, while in others, copies must be ordered and purchased.

Remember to check the specific requirements of your state or region, as the process may vary. Congratulations, and best wishes for your special day!

You can write your own vows

A civil ceremony is a non-religious, legal marriage ceremony. It is presided over by a legal official—a judge, magistrate, justice of the peace, county or court clerk, or notary public—and the marriage will be recognized in all 50 states.

While there are no legal requirements to recite wedding vows during a civil ceremony, many couples choose to exchange some type of promises or vows to make the occasion more meaningful. You can write your own vows, or use traditional wedding vows, or a combination of both. Here are some tips for writing your own vows:

• Focus on your love story: Share how you met, or when you knew they were "the one", or what you love most about them.
• Keep it simple: You likely have limited time, so aim for a few concise, heartfelt sentences.
• Be sincere: Speak from the heart using your own words and style. Avoid cliches or over-the-top proclamations.
• Consider your venue: Tailor your vows to fit the setting and your reasons for a civil ceremony.
• Prepare and practice: Write your vows ahead of time and read them aloud to ensure your delivery is smooth.
• Include personal touches: End with a meaningful quote, inside joke, or nickname to make your vows unique.
• Make it about your partner: Affirming your love and promising to support each other makes the ceremony more intimate.
• Include inside jokes: This is a fun way to reflect the unique bond you have, and to entertain your guests.
• Focus on your partnership: Discuss the special aspects of your partnership to emphasise shared values and make the ceremony a personal reflection of your relationship.
• Reaffirm your long-term commitment: Promise to stand by each other, to respect and cherish each other, and to face challenges together.
• Include your partner's children: If either partner has children, acknowledge them in your vows to honour the blended family being created.
• Remember to say "I love you": Amidst the excitement and formalities, don't forget to include these three little words.

Frequently asked questions