How to Elope in Georgia

Georgia is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the USA, which makes it perfect for an elopement. But it also has much more than geography to offer.
Outline map of Georgia

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Why is Georgia great for an elopement?

A charming state, with its famous Southern hospitality and varied locations, Georgia is a lovely place for an elopement. With a landscape featuring national parks, mountain trails, beaches, or rustic sprawling ranches, there is a place for every type of wedding ceremony you can imagine.

Home to one of the original 13 colonies, Savannah, there is no shortage of history to surround yourself during your wedding. With major cities such as Atlanta and Augusta, those who like the hustle and bustle of city life can go there and be sure to have a great time. The outdoorsy types among you may love the northern areas of Georgia, where cities such as Rome and Dalton offer outdoor adventures including: hiking trails and outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing. Gainesville is located in northeast Georgia near the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views for elopements all year round.

Although there can be good weather throughout the year, Fall is generally the best time of year to get married in Georgia. This is because it can be very hot and humid in the summer, whereas fall offers a good balance between temperature and comfort. Fall also brings stunning scenery, with vibrant colors, that give amazing backdrops for your wedding photographs.

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 Georgia.

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 Georgia?

The Probate Court issues marriage licenses in Georgia. Couples nay receive a $40 discount on their application fee if they complete a pre-marital course.

Do I Need to be a Resident of Georgia?

Both residents and non-residents may apply for a marriage license in Georgia. However, non-residents must apply in the county where the marriage is to be performed.

Is there a waiting period to get married?

There is no waiting period to marry in Georgia once a marriage license has been issued. So you could collect your license and get married straight away!

How long will my marriage license be valid for?

Marriage licenses issued in Georgia do not expire.

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

Couples must be aged 18 years or over to apply for a marriage license in Georgia. Those aged 16 or 17 may apply with parental consent.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE ID?

Valid photo ID is required when applying for a marriage license in Georgia. Valid documents include: passport, driver’s license, birth certificate, baptismal certificate, state ID, or military identification.

HOW MUCH DOES A MARRIAGE LICENSE COST IN Georgia?

Marriage license fees range from $56 – $76, depending on which Georgia county you apply in. To reduce the fee to $16 – $36, couples can attend a state-approved premarital program.

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?

If the officiant who performed the ceremony does not complete the form, then the signature of two witnesses is required who are over the age of 18.

DOES Georgia REQUIRE AN OFFICIANT FOR A WEDDING?

An officiant is required to perform a wedding ceremony in Georgia. Those allowed include: judges, a city recorder, magistrate or any religious leader / minister. This includes those ordained by online organizations such as the Universal Life Church.

Your officiant does not need to register with any government or legal office before the wedding.

SUMMARY

So that’s it, everything you need to know about eloping in Georgia. 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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