A civil wedding is a ceremony held in a secular setting, such as a courthouse, town hall, or park. In other words, a civil wedding is a non-religious ceremony performed by a government official or judge.
Many couples choose to have a civil wedding for a variety of reasons, including the affordability and simplicity of the ceremony.
One of the benefits of a civil wedding is the flexibility to organize the ceremony. You can choose to include any elements that are meaningful to you and your partner, such as personal vows or unique rituals.
If you’re considering a civil wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Each state has its own rules when applying for a marriage license, so check first. In general, civil ceremonies are subject to the same requirements as religious ceremonies in terms of costs (such as residence and marriage license) and restrictions (age, etc.). So, check the cost, required documentation, and waiting time.
While, again, requirements vary from state to state, civil ceremonies are generally presided over by a legal officer. That person can be a justice of the peace, county or court clerk, notary public, magistrate, or judge. If you go to the court or registry, the person will be provided.
Having a civil ceremony doesn’t mean you have to go through the guest list, but there are often limits on how many guests you can bring. Always check the rules of the ceremony venue before giving invitations to family members or friends. And don’t forget that “witnesses” can also be “guests”.
Consider inviting parents and siblings to a familiar celebration, or add close friends.
There is a saying that “the most memorable wedding is always the most personal.”
Put a spin on the civil ceremony with your own personality through the outfit (whether new or from the current wardrobe), and how it is documented. Celebrate your love.
Consider bringing a photographer to capture the special moments of the day, as the civil ceremony is part of your wedding story.
You are married! Mark the occasion in a special way, whether it’s a champagne toast with just the two of you, a family dinner at home, or a lunch after the afternoon ceremony. If you have witnesses or guests, make sure you are included in the fun.