How to Elope in Connecticut

Connecticut offers beautiful scenery, including quiet beaches, hilltops and water views which make it a lovely state for a destination wedding or elopement.
Connecticut state outline map

Planning an Elopement?

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Why is Connecticut great for an elopement?

Connecticut is a beautiful location for an elopement, with a broad range of landscapes including hills and mountains, rivers and beaches, as well as historic harbor towns.

Connecticut offers something for everyone, and being a smaller and quieter state it fits in perfectly with the idea of an intimate elopement, focused entirely on what the couple want.

GETTING YOUR MARRIAGE LICENSE

All states require a marriage license, so you need to ensure that you understand all of the requirements very early in the planning process. Luckily, it’s fairly straightforward in most cases as long as you meet the criteria and follow the state requirements.

Here is what you need to know about getting a marriage license in Connecticut.

Is Same Sex Marriage Recognized?

Yes! Same sex marriage is recognized in all states, and at a federal level, under the Respect for Marriage Act which was signed into law in December 2022.

Will I Need to take a blood test?

No. Blood tests have been abolished as part of marriage license applications in all 50 states, so don’t worry if you’re afraid of needles!

Who Issues Marriage Licenses in Connecticut?

The Municipal Clerk’s Office issues marriage licenses in Connecticut.

Do I Need to be a Resident of Connecticut?

Both residents and non-residents may apply for a marriage license in Connecticut. However, if one applicant is a Connecticut resident they must apply in their residing town. If neither party are residents, they should apply in the town where they plan to marry.

Is there a waiting period to get married?

There is no waiting period to marry in Connecticut once a marriage license has been issued.

How long will my marriage license be valid for?

Marriage licenses in Connecticut expire 65 days after they are issued.

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE TO GET MARRIED IN Connecticut?

Couples must be at least 18 years old to apply for a marriage license in Connecticut. A person aged 16 or 17 may receive authorization to marry from a judge of the district in which they live.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE ID?

To apply for a marriage license in Connecticut, couples will need to present valid identification such as a passport, driver’s license, military identification card, or birth certificate.

HOW MUCH DOES A MARRIAGE LICENSE COST IN Connecticut?

Fees vary by county, but expect to pay around $30 – $50.

On Your Wedding Day

Once you’ve gotten the admin out of the way, you can get to the part you’ve been dreaming of: the wedding ceremony!

As you’d expect, each state has different requirements to make a marriage legal. Make sure you follow the guide below to get your marriage legally recognized.

Will i need witnesses to the marriage?

There are no requirements to have witnesses for a wedding in Connecticut, however some religious groups may require witnesses to perform a wedding ceremony by one of their faith leaders.

DOES Connecticut REQUIRE AN OFFICIANT FOR A WEDDING?

To perform a marriage in Colorado, a person must be: an ordained member of the clergy, including those ordained online, or a judge or retired judge.

SUMMARY

So that’s it, everything you need to know about eloping in Connecticut. And if you think that it could be the place to host your special day, why not give me a call to chat about your wedding? I’m an experienced elopement photographer, and an ordained minister, so in most cases I can be your officiant too!

Planning an Elopement?

Get my step-by-step guide and plan your dream elopement!

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