Tying the Knot: Making it Legal
You’re getting married! I am so happy and excited for you! Getting married to the love of your life is an exciting step, but there are some legal task that you must complete before you can say, “I do.”
I am Rev. Benita with Living Ceremonies, your Nashville Wedding & Destination Officiant. Let’s break down the process of obtaining your marriage license and making it official.
A marriage license is a legal document that is issued typically by your county clerk’s office that gives you permission to get married. If you are getting married in another state you can get the license either in your home state or in the county you are getting married in.
Each state has a specific requirements, so check with your local county clerk’s office. To get your license in Tennessee:
Step 1: Gather Your Needed Information
A valid government issued photo identification (driver’s license, passport)
Social Security numbers
Birth certificates
Divorce decree (if previously married)
A completed marriage license application submitted online before visiting the office
Step 2: Visit Your County Clerk’s Office
Once you have all of your documents together, take them to your county clerk’s office
Both parties must be present to complete the process
Pay the Fee. In Nashville you can pay by cash or card, cash is $99.50 and the card fee is $101.49. There is a $60 saving if you had premarital counseling. You will have to bring a notarized premarital counseling Certification of Completion.
If either person is unable to appear in person due to a disability or incarceration, there are specific guidelines to follow and you will need to submit a notarized affidavit.
Once you have your marriage license, you can proceed with your wedding ceremony. Be sure to have your marriage license on the day of your wedding. Most officiants will require the license before the wedding. It is best to have a designated person responsible for getting the license to the officiant.
Step 3: Returning The Marriage License
After the ceremony, the officiant will complete the marriage license. It must be returned to the county clerk’s office where it was obtained within a specific timeframe. Either the bride and groom can return it or the officiant. As a service to our couples, Living Ceremonies offers to return the license for them, couples really appreciate this especially if they are leaving soon for their honeymoon.
After the marriage license is filed and recorded, you can request a certified copy of your marriage certificate. This document is serves as the official proof of your marriage and can be used for changing your name and updating personal information.
Obtaining your marriage license is a crucial step in making your marriage legal. By making sure you fulfill all the requirements and have the correct documents with you, you can easily complete the process. Once you secure your license, you are one step closer to your big day and experiencing all of joy that comes with it. Living Ceremonies is a wedding officiant in Nashville and beyond to serve your wedding ceremony needs.