How to Get Married in Virginia

By eHow Weddings Editor

Rate: (2 Ratings)

Virginia has been the birthplace to eight U.S. presidents. That is more than any other state in the Union. What more fitting place to have a wedding than a place that has been the starting point for so many other great endeavors? In addition, the scenery and culture of Virginia are second to none. Here’s how to get married in Virginia.

Flag Article

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

marriage license
identification

Step1

Set a date. You’ll want to choose a rough time of year you want the ceremony performed. There will be more leeway in deciding where you want the ceremony to be performed if you aren’t stuck on one particular day.

Step2

Choose a venue. Virginia, being a coastal state, offers an array of dazzling settings for the most important day of your life. Take a tour of the state if you’ve never been before settling on the final choice.

Step3

Go to the county clerk’s office no more than 60 days before your wedding to apply for a marriage license. You’ll need to apply in the county in which you plan to be married.

Step4

Plan the food and not just the wedding cake. Almost every wedding is long enough to include a meal or at least a snack. The most convenient and least expensive way to go is either a la carte or buffet style dining.

Step5

Make a guest list and send out invites. This is something for you and your fiancé to do together as you don’t want any of your friends or family overlooked.

Tips & Warnings

Bring cash ($30) to the county clerk’s office as some of them will accept nothing but cash for payment on your marriage license.
There is no waiting period for a marriage license in the state of Virginia, nor do you have to be a resident of the state to apply for one.
If you’ve been divorced, call ahead to the county clerk’s office to see if they require documentation of the end of your previous marriage. Policies on this point vary from county to county.
In the state of Virginia, marriage licenses expire 60 days after they’re issued.
If you’re between the ages of 18 and 16, a parent or guardian must be present and give their consent for your marriage when you apply for your marriage license.