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How to get married in California is one of the most exciting journeys a couple can take. If you’ve been wondering how to get married in California, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you envision a sun-drenched beach wedding or a mountaintop elopement, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to get married in California.
Why Choose California for Your Nuptials?
First off, why wouldn’t you? California offers a diverse range of breathtaking venues, from sandy beaches to majestic redwood forests. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement, a grand destination wedding, or something uniquely in between, California has something for every couple. Plus, with its progressive marriage laws, how to get married in California is a smooth and enjoyable process.
And let’s not forget the weather—300 days of sunshine a year in some areas? Yes, please! Whether you want to exchange vows under a golden sunset in Malibu or among the vineyards of Napa Valley, California’s climate makes outdoor weddings a dream come true.
Step 1: How to Get Married in California and Secure Your Marriage License
Before you can waltz down the aisle, you’ll need a marriage license. Here’s the lowdown:
- Where to Apply: Any County Clerk’s office in California will do the trick. The beauty of it? You don’t have to be a resident of the county—or even the state!
- What to Bring: Both parties must appear together with valid, government-issued photo IDs. Think driver’s license, passport, or military ID.
- Application Process: Some counties offer online applications to expedite the process. However, both of you will still need to make a joint appearance to finalize it.
- Fees: Fees vary by county, so it’s wise to check ahead. For instance, a standard marriage license in Santa Clara County is $80, while Los Angeles County charges $91 for a public marriage license and $85 for a confidential license.
- Validity: Once issued, your license is good for 90 days. So, plan to say “I do” within that timeframe.
Step 2: Choosing the Right License for Getting Married in California
California offers two types of marriage licenses:
- Public License: Your marriage becomes part of the public record. You’ll need at least one witness during the ceremony, and the license is recorded at the County Recorder’s Office.
- Confidential License: If you’ve been living together as spouses, this might be for you. No witnesses are required, and the record is only accessible to the couple. Additionally, a confidential license can only be obtained in the county where the marriage ceremony will take place.
Step 3: How to Get Married in California and Plan Your Ceremony
With license in hand, it’s time to plan the main event. Whether you’re envisioning a grand affair or an intimate gathering, California caters to all:
- Venue Options: From the cliffs of Big Sur to the vineyards of Napa Valley, the options are endless. Want something truly unique? Consider Joshua Tree for a desert backdrop or Yosemite for a breathtaking national park wedding.
- Officiants: California is quite flexible. Your officiant can be a religious leader, a judge, or even a friend ordained for the day. (Fun fact: In California, anyone can become a wedding officiant online in a matter of minutes!)
- Witnesses: For a public license, at least one witness is required. For a confidential license, no witnesses are needed.
Step 4: Navigating the Legalities of How to Get Married in California
Now that your ceremony is planned, it’s important to understand the legal aspects:
- Marriage Age Requirements: Both parties must be at least 18 years old. Minors can marry with parental consent and a court order.
- Divorce & Previous Marriages: If either party was previously married, you may need to provide a certified copy of the final divorce decree if the divorce was finalized within the past 90 days.
- Same-Sex Marriages: California has recognized same-sex marriage since 2013, ensuring that all couples enjoy equal marriage rights.
- Proxy Marriages: California does not allow proxy marriages unless one party is in active military duty and stationed overseas.
Step 5: Finalizing Your Marriage in California
Post-ceremony, ensure your marriage is officially recorded:
- Return the License: Your officiant is responsible for returning the signed license to the County Clerk or Recorder within 10 days.
- Obtain Certified Copies: These are essential for legal name changes, tax filing, and other official matters. Request them from the County Clerk’s office.
The Best Wedding Destinations in California
1. Beach Weddings
Dreaming of a toes-in-the-sand ceremony? California is home to some of the most beautiful beach wedding venues:
- Malibu: Iconic and glamorous, ideal for a sunset ceremony.
- Laguna Beach: Offers stunning cliffs and intimate beachfront settings.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea: A fairy-tale coastal town perfect for a romantic wedding.
2. Vineyard Weddings
For wine lovers, getting married in Napa Valley or Temecula wine country is a match made in heaven. Sip, savor, and celebrate amidst rolling vineyards and picturesque views.
3. National Park & Outdoor Weddings
If you’re an adventurous couple, consider a breathtaking backdrop like:
- Yosemite National Park: Exchange vows with El Capitan in the background.
- Joshua Tree National Park: A dream for bohemian-style weddings.
- Lake Tahoe: A stunning option for both summer and winter weddings.
Tips for a Stress-Free California Wedding
- Book Early: California is a popular wedding destination, so venues and vendors book up fast.
- Weather Check: While California is known for its sunshine, some areas (hello, San Francisco!) can be foggy and chilly even in summer.
- Understand Permits: If you’re planning a beach or park wedding, check whether you need a special event permit.
Giveaway Alert! Don’t Miss Out on Your Dream Wedding Freebies
Planning a wedding can be expensive, but what if you could score some amazing wedding giveaways? Head over to Bridalsphere’s giveaway page and enter to win fabulous wedding freebies. And here’s the best part: for every action you complete (sharing, signing up, engaging), you get extra entries! Who doesn’t love stacking the odds in their favor?
Embarking on the journey of how to get married in California is both exciting and straightforward. With its stunning locales and accommodating laws, your dream wedding is well within reach. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your California wedding today!