Civil Wedding Date: How To Set It

Planning a civil wedding and looking for advice on how to set a date? Here's a step-by-step guide to help you choose the perfect date for your special day.

First, consider the practicalities. Civil weddings are subject to legal requirements, including the need for a marriage license, which is only valid for a certain period after it is issued (typically around three months). So, start by checking the rules in your location and apply for the license in good time. Remember that some places have a waiting period between receiving the license and when you can marry.

Next, think about the type of ceremony you want. Do you want a simple, intimate gathering or a larger celebration? If you're set on a particular venue, check its availability, as this may influence your date. Consider the season and local weather, as well as any personal preferences, such as meaningful dates or anniversaries. Avoid major holidays, as these can be more expensive and your guests may have other plans.

Finally, ensure you give yourselves enough time to plan and prepare, especially if you want to include custom details or have specific vendors in mind. It's important to be flexible, as your dream venue or photographer may not be available on your preferred date.

By following these steps, you'll be able to choose a date that suits your vision for your civil wedding and ensures a smooth planning process.

Apply for a marriage license

Applying for a marriage license is a crucial step in setting a date for your civil wedding. Here is a detailed guide on how to go about it:

Identify the Requirements and Necessary Documents:

Before starting the application process, familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and documents needed for a marriage license in your state or country. These may include proof of identity, age, and residency. Some common documents accepted as proof include passports, driver's licenses, birth certificates, and military identification cards. Additionally, if you or your partner has been previously married, you may need to provide proof of divorce or widowhood, such as a certified copy of the final divorce decree or death certificate.

Choose Your Application Method:

You can typically apply for a marriage license through an online application, by filling out a form, or by visiting the relevant office in person. Online applications are often the fastest method, while applying in person may take longer. Some locations, like Montgomery County, Texas, offer multiple application methods, allowing you to start the process online and then complete it in person.

Complete and Submit the Application:

When submitting your application, ensure that both you and your partner meet the requirements and are eligible to marry. Some places may require both parties to appear before the relevant official, such as a city clerk, during specified office hours. If one of you cannot be present, certain jurisdictions may allow an authorized representative or the other applicant to apply on their behalf, provided they have the necessary documentation.

Provide the Required Documentation:

Along with your application, you will need to submit the necessary documents as proof of identity and age. Additionally, if applicable, provide proof of divorce or widowhood. It is important to note that photocopies of certain documents, such as divorce or death certificates, may not be accepted, and you may be required to present certified copies instead.

Pay the License Fee:

Obtaining a marriage license typically incurs a fee, which varies depending on the location. For example, in Lebanon, New Hampshire, the license fee is $50, payable in cash, check, or credit card. In contrast, Montgomery County, Texas, only accepts cash payments for the license fee. Be sure to verify the accepted payment methods for your chosen location.

Adhere to Waiting Periods and Validity Periods:

Once you have obtained your marriage license, be mindful of any waiting periods before your wedding can take place. For instance, in Texas, there is a 72-hour waiting period after obtaining the license. Additionally, marriage licenses are only valid for a certain period, such as 90 days in New Hampshire and 120 days in the Philippines. Therefore, it is advisable not to apply too far in advance of your desired wedding date.

Remember to refer to the specific requirements and guidelines of your state or country when applying for a marriage license, as the process may vary slightly in different locations.

Pay the necessary fees

Paying the necessary fees is an important step in the civil wedding process. While civil weddings are generally more affordable than traditional weddings, there are still some costs to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Varying Fees

The cost of a civil wedding can vary depending on your location and the specific requirements of your local government. In the Philippines, for example, the judge's service fee can range from free to PHP 8,000, depending on the location and day of the wedding. On the other hand, the mayor's fee is usually free of charge if the wedding is held at the city hall. In other cases, a small amount (around PHP 300) may be charged as a solemnization fee.

Required Documents

There are several required documents that you will need to obtain for your civil wedding, and each of these documents may come with its own set of fees. These documents typically include valid IDs, birth certificates, marriage license application forms, and more. For example, in the Philippines, the marriage license fee is ₱330, which includes the processing fee.

Pre-Wedding Preparations

In addition to the cost of the wedding itself, there may be fees associated with pre-wedding preparations. This can include costs for things like wedding attire, photography, and even teeth whitening! While these expenses are optional, they can add up quickly, so it's important to be mindful of them when setting your budget.

Venue Costs

If you choose to have your civil wedding at a location other than the presiding judge's chambers or the mayor's office, you will likely incur additional venue costs. These costs can vary greatly depending on the location and the number of guests you plan to invite.

Catering and Reception

If you plan to have a reception after your civil wedding, catering services and venue rental will be additional expenses to consider. Catering services typically charge per person, so the cost will depend on the number of guests you invite. Venue rental fees can also vary widely, ranging from PHP 5,000 to PHP 150,000 or more.

Timing

The timing of your civil wedding can also impact the fees you'll need to pay. For example, if you choose to have your wedding on a weekend or outside of regular business hours, your officiant may charge a higher fee. Similarly, if you want to get married soon after obtaining your marriage license, you may need to pay for an expedited service.

Remember, it's important to research the specific requirements and fees associated with civil weddings in your location. By staying organized and keeping track of the various fees, you can ensure that your civil wedding stays within your budget.

Pick a date

Picking a date for your civil wedding ceremony is one of the most important planning decisions you'll make as a couple. It will impact every other aspect of your big day. Here are some key things to consider when choosing a date:

Weather

The weather will play a significant role in your wedding, especially if you plan to have an outdoor ceremony or reception. The most popular months to get married are June, September, and October, as the weather is usually pleasant during these months. Consider the season and the average weather during that time of year when selecting your date.

Off-Season Dates

Getting married during the off-season, such as January or March, can help cut costs on venue fees, but there may be sacrifices in other areas. For example, certain flowers may be harder to find or more expensive during those months. The same concept applies to choosing a weekday versus a weekend wedding. While you may save on venue costs, other vendors may not offer similar discounts.

Venue and Vendor Availability

If you have a dream venue or a must-have vendor in mind, their availability may dictate your wedding date. Popular venues and vendors are often booked far in advance, so it's essential to be flexible with your date to secure your top choices.

Special Dates

Consider if there are any dates that hold special meaning for you as a couple or as individuals. You may want to honour a family member by getting married on their birthday or anniversary, or you may want to avoid certain dates altogether.

Timing and Logistics

Give yourself enough time to plan, especially if you want to incorporate custom details or travel for your honeymoon. On the other hand, be mindful of not giving yourself too much time, as costs can increase, and there may be more obstacles that arise with a longer engagement.

Holidays and Special Events

While holiday weddings can be festive, you may want to avoid major holidays, religious holidays, event weekends, and sporting events. These dates tend to be more expensive, and your guests may prefer to celebrate those days separately.

Marriage License Validity

In many places, marriage licenses are only valid for a specific period after they are issued. For example, in the Philippines, the license is valid for 120 days from the date of issuance. Therefore, it's essential to plan your wedding date within this window to ensure the legality of your marriage.

Personal Preferences

Ultimately, the date you choose should reflect what you and your partner want for your wedding day. Whether it's a particular season, a meaningful date, or a practical consideration, make sure the date feels right for both of you.

Remember, the process of choosing a wedding date is unique to each couple, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. By considering these factors, you'll be well on your way to selecting the perfect date for your civil wedding ceremony.

Invite witnesses

You will need to invite at least two witnesses to your civil wedding ceremony. Witnesses are there to observe the wedding and sign the paperwork, including the marriage certificate, afterwards. While they do not need to bring ID, they must be old enough to understand what a marriage is and what a legal ceremony should look like. They must also be able to speak the language the ceremony is being conducted in.

You can ask anyone to be a witness, including strangers, and members of the wedding party can also act as witnesses. If you are inviting guests, you can simply ask them to be witnesses, or you can bring along two friends if you are planning an elopement. If you are having your wedding in a register office in the UK, you can pay a fee to have two witnesses provided for you.

It is a good idea to assign backup witnesses in case your original choices are unable to make it. Be sure to inform your witnesses of the date of your civil wedding and check their availability.

Choose an officiant

Choosing an officiant for your civil wedding is a crucial step in the wedding planning process. The officiant is responsible for leading the ceremony and ensuring that your marriage is legally binding. Here are some tips to help you choose the right one:

Types of Officiants

First, it's important to understand the different types of officiants available. Civil weddings can be performed by government officials such as judges, justices of the peace, mayors, city clerks, notaries, or magistrates. These individuals typically oversee ceremonies within a government setting, like a courthouse wedding.

Alternatively, you can choose a professional officiant, also known as a celebrant. These are licensed and experienced professionals who are well-versed in secular, spiritual, or interfaith ceremonies. They offer flexibility in customising your ceremony and can guide you in writing your vows.

If you prefer a religious ceremony, your officiant will typically be a leader within your faith, such as a rabbi, priest, imam, pastor, reverend, or minister. They usually perform ceremonies based at their place of worship, but some are willing to officiate at other venues as well.

Research and Interviews

When selecting an officiant, it's essential to do your research and conduct interviews. Read online reviews, ask for recommendations from your wedding venue, and consult trusted vendors and family members. If you already know you want to get married at a house of worship, interview multiple officiants to find the one that aligns with your values and ceremony vision.

Skills and Experience

A good officiant should be confident and skilled in public speaking, able to create a meaningful and engaging ceremony for you and your guests. They should also be organised and knowledgeable about the legal requirements, such as registering with the state and submitting the necessary paperwork to make your marriage official.

Compatibility and Personalisation

Meet with potential officiants to ensure they are the right fit for your ceremony and share your perspective on marriage. Choose someone who is interested in getting to know you and your partner, and who is open to personalising the ceremony to match your style and preferences.

Legal Recognition

Finally, ensure that your chosen officiant is legally recognised and certified in your state and county. Confirm that they understand their official duties, including submitting the marriage license to the local clerk's office for filing.

By following these steps, you can find an officiant who will create a memorable and meaningful ceremony for your civil wedding.

Frequently asked questions