Colorado is a beautiful state to get married in, with stunning scenery, diverse locations, and a variety of options for your special day. Whether you’re dreaming of a mountaintop ceremony, a rustic barn wedding, or a formal ballroom event, Colorado has something for everyone.
Before you start planning your wedding, it’s important to understand the legal requirements for getting married in Colorado. This article will guide you through the process of getting married in Colorado, from obtaining a marriage license to choosing your officiant.
Obtaining a Marriage License
The first step in getting married in Colorado is to obtain a marriage license from the county clerk’s office in the county where you plan to marry. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:
Who Can Obtain a Marriage License?
- You must be at least 18 years old. If you are younger than 18, you will need to obtain a court order from a judge allowing you to marry.
- You must not be currently married to another person.
- You must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- You will need to pay a fee, which varies by county.
How to Apply for a Marriage License
- Visit the county clerk’s office in person. You can find the contact information for your local county clerk’s office online.
- Fill out an application. You will need to provide your name, address, date of birth, and other personal information.
- Present valid identification.
- Pay the fee.
- Wait for your license to be issued. The processing time for a marriage license can vary, so be sure to apply for it well in advance of your wedding date.
Validity of Your Marriage License
A Colorado marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. You must get married within this time frame.
Finding an Officiant
Once you have a marriage license, you will need to find an officiant to perform your wedding ceremony. Colorado law allows a variety of individuals to officiate weddings, including:
- Judges
- Clergy
- Registered Domestic Partners
- Officiants ordained online
It’s important to note that Colorado requires officiants to be registered with the state. You can find a list of registered officiants on the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website.
Choosing the Right Officiant
When choosing an officiant, consider:
- Their experience and qualifications
- Their style and personality
- Their fees
You should also make sure that your chosen officiant is comfortable with the type of ceremony you are planning.
Getting Married in Colorado
The Wedding Ceremony
Once you have a marriage license and an officiant, you can get married in Colorado! The ceremony can be as simple or as elaborate as you like.
- Wedding Requirements: In Colorado, there is no required number of witnesses present at a wedding ceremony.
- Legal Marriage Requirements: Colorado requires you to pronounce your vows in front of an authorized officiant, exchange rings or make some other form of outward symbol of your commitment to each other.
Colorado Wedding Ceremony
Registering Your Marriage
After your ceremony, your officiant will complete a marriage certificate. You will need to file this certificate with the county clerk’s office where you obtained your marriage license. Once the certificate is filed, you will be legally married in Colorado.
Tips for Planning Your Colorado Wedding
- Book your venue and officiant well in advance. Colorado is a popular destination for weddings, so you’ll want to secure your venue and officiant early on.
- Consider the weather. Colorado is known for its unpredictable weather, so be prepared for all four seasons.
- Get a marriage license from the county clerk’s office. You can’t get married in Colorado without a valid marriage license.
- Hire a professional photographer or videographer. Capture the memories of your special day with a professional photographer or videographer.
- Enjoy the process! Planning your wedding should be a fun and exciting experience. Don’t get too stressed out, and relax and enjoy the journey.
Colorado Wedding Photography
FAQ:
1. What are the legal requirements for getting married in Colorado?
You must be at least 18 years old, not currently married to another person, and present valid identification. You will also need to obtain a marriage license and have a registered officiant perform the ceremony.
2. How long is a Colorado marriage license valid?
A Colorado marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.
3. Can I get married in Colorado without a ceremony?
No, Colorado requires you to pronounce your vows in front of an authorized officiant, exchange rings or make some other form of outward symbol of your commitment to each other.
4. What are the fees for a marriage license in Colorado?
The fee for a marriage license varies by county.
5. What is the best time of year to get married in Colorado?
The best time to get married in Colorado depends on your preference for weather. Summer is typically the most popular time to get married, but you can also get married in the fall, spring, or winter.
6. What are some popular wedding venues in Colorado?
Colorado has many beautiful wedding venues, including mountaintop resorts, rustic barns, and historic buildings. You can find a list of wedding venues online or through a wedding planner.
Additional Considerations:
- Premarital Counseling: Consider attending premarital counseling to discuss your relationship and prepare for the challenges of marriage.
- Financial Planning: Discuss your financial goals and create a plan for managing your finances as a couple.
- Prenuptial Agreement: If you are concerned about your assets or finances, you may want to consider a prenuptial agreement.
Congratulations on your engagement! Remember to enjoy the process of planning your Colorado wedding, and most importantly, enjoy your special day with your loved ones.
If you have any further questions or require assistance with your wedding planning, please feel free to reach out to our team. We have a team of experienced professionals ready to guide you through every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation.
