How to Elope in Wyoming

Rugged and adventurous are two great ways to describe Wyoming. With plains and mountains, there are no shortage of locations for epic views at your elopement.
Outline map of Wyoming

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Why is Wyoming great for an elopement?

With numerous national parks, including Yellowstone, as well as forests, canyons and of course the Great Plains, where you can spot bison wandering in the grasslands, Wyoming has plenty of charm. Yellowstone offers the romantic opportunity to relax in natural hot springs, and Grand Teton National Park has a range of mountains, lakes and rivers for stunning scenery. For those who are seeking simplicity combined with natural beauty, the Thunder Basin National Grassland’s open plains with lush green and golden grass is is a great destination. With the historic Oregon, Mormon Pioneer and California Trails all passing through the state, adventurous couples can connect with the history of the early travelers, and who is more adventurous than those people?

Summer and early fall offer the best opportunities for outdoor weddings in Wyoming: the weather is good and the scenery is colorful. Winter weddings are possible, and you can expect beautiful crisp, undisturbed snow to blanket the ground. But be aware that some of the mountainous areas will be off-limits.

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 Wyoming.

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 Wyoming?

Marriage licenses in Wyoming are issued by the County Clerk’s office.

Do I Need to be a Resident of Wyoming?

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

Is there a waiting period to get married?

There is no waiting period to marry in Wyoming once a marriage license has been issued. You could get married on the same day that you collect it!

How long will my marriage license be valid for?

Marriage licenses issued in Wyoming expire one year from the date of issuance.

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

Couples must be 18 to apply for a marriage license in Wyoming. Those aged 16 or 17 may apply for a license with parental consent, and those aged 15 or younger may also apply with both parental and judicial consent.

WILL I NEED TO TAKE ID?

Photo ID is required as part of the application, such as a diver’s license or passport. You will also need to know your social security numbers.

HOW MUCH DOES A MARRIAGE LICENSE COST IN Wyoming?

There is a fee of $30 for marriage license applications in Wyoming.

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?

Two witnesses are required, in addition to the officiant.

DOES Wyoming REQUIRE AN OFFICIANT FOR A WEDDING?

An officiant is required to solemnize a marriage in Wyoming. Eligible individuals include; judges, magistrates or ordained ministers.

Those ordained by online ministries can officiate a wedding, and this is the route many people take when they’d like a friend or family member to be their officiant.

SUMMARY

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