How to Elope in South Carolina

With southern hospitality and a varied landscape that features mountains, woodlands, waterfalls and beaches, South Carolina makes a great elopement destination.
Outline map of South Carolina

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Why is South Carolina great for an elopement?

That famous southern hospitality, and a landscape that features beaches, mountains, woodlands and waterfalls, make South Carolina an obvious candidate to host your elopement. Those who want altitude might fall in love with the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of North Carolina’s best loved mountain ranges which is perfect for hiking and seeing some tremendous views on the overlooks. The Blue Ridge also has lush woodland areas, and cascading waterfalls which are always worth a stop on your hike, and make great backdrops for photographs. For those who enjoy nature’s scenery but closer to sea level, Charleston is a well-known wedding destination where you could marry on a beautiful plantation, or at the beach. Either makes a great elopement destination!

South Carolina experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cool winters. The region is prone to hurricanes in the height of summer, so a spring or fall ceremony could be perfect for weather.

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 South Carolina.

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 South Carolina?

Marriage licenses in South Carolina are issued by the Probate Court.

Do I Need to be a Resident of South Carolina?

Both residents and non-residents may apply for a marriage license in South Carolina.

Is there a waiting period to get married?

There is a waiting period of 24 hours for marriage licenses in South Carolina.

How long will my marriage license be valid for?

Marriage licenses issued in South Carolina expire one year from their date of issuance.

HOW OLD DO I NEED TO BE TO GET MARRIED IN South Carolina?

To marry with no further caveats, couples must be aged 18 or older. Minors aged 16 and 17 may still apply for a marriage license with parental consent.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE ID?

You will need valid photo ID as part of your marriage license application. Valid documents include: a driver’s license, passport, military ID or state ID. You will also need a social security card or other legal document to verify your social security number.

HOW MUCH DOES A MARRIAGE LICENSE COST IN South Carolina?

Marriage license fees in South Carolina vary from county to county. Expect to pay anywhere between $30 – $80.

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 is no requirements to have witnesses to a marriage in South Carolina.

DOES South Carolina REQUIRE AN OFFICIANT FOR A WEDDING?

An officiant is required to solemnize a marriage in South Carolina. Eligible individuals include: a minister or clergyman of a religious organization or a South Carolina notary public.

Those ordained by an online ministry may perform marriage ceremonies in South Carolina.

SUMMARY

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