Get my step-by-step guide and plan your dream elopement!
With many a mountain and woodland to choose from, Washington state is the perfect location for any adventurous couple who want a rugged, earthy feel for their wedding. The varied landscape of the state means you can often experience mountain overlooks, lakes and forests within walking distance of one another. Mount Rainier is one of those places, with mountains, fields, streams and woodlands all right next to each other: think of The Shire where Hobbits live because it’s that sort of idyllic vibe.
Of course, the summer months offer the most chance of sunshine for your ceremony, but spring and fall also offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Winter weddings can be gorgeous too, with snowfall in the mountainous areas. However, the winter is rainy and combined with heavy snowfall can make the mountains inaccessible so be prepared with a backup plan!
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 Washington.
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.
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!
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.
An officiant is required to solemnize a marriage taking place in Washington state. Eligible individuals include: various judges (e.g. Justices of the Supreme Court, judges of the superior courts, judges of the Court of Appeals), or an ordained minister of any religious denomination.
Those ordained by online ministries are may officiate your wedding, which is a popular way to have friends or family members perform your ceremony.
Get my step-by-step guide and plan your dream elopement!
SHARE THE LOVE:
If you cannot see my email in your inbox, please check the spam / promotions folders and move it into your inbox or mark as "not spam."