Planning a Wedding in Arkansas
When it comes to planning a wedding, Arkansas is a charming choice for many couples. The state boasts beautiful landscapes, from the stunning Ozark Mountains to serene lakes and lush forests, providing numerous picturesque locations for your special day. Whether you prefer a rustic barn wedding, an elegant affair in Little Rock, or a scenic outdoor ceremony, Arkansas has countless spots to say “I do,” all while embracing the warmth and hospitality of the South.
Are Online Marriages Legal in Arkansas?
Before the global pandemic, Arkansas had specific regulations about the legality of weddings and officiants. Traditionally, both the couple and the officiant needed to be present for the ceremony to be legally recognized, and couples had to obtain a marriage license in person at a designated office. However, laws and procedures adapted during the pandemic.
As of now, couples in Arkansas can legally get married online through the courts in Utah. This method allows you to complete your marriage process remotely, and the marriage certificate is recognized in all 50 states, including Arkansas. Book an appointment at https://virtualmarriage.com/
What’s Needed for an In-Person Wedding in Arkansas
Getting married in Arkansas involves several steps, including obtaining a marriage license, finding an officiant, and planning your ceremony. The marriage license fee is typically around $60, and there is no waiting period for residents.
Here’s an overview of the process:
- Obtain a Marriage License: Both parties must apply together at a county clerk’s office in Arkansas to obtain a marriage license. You will need to provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and pay the license fee. The marriage license is valid for 60 days.
- Find an Officiant: You will need to secure an authorized officiant to perform your wedding ceremony. This can be a minister, judge, or another authorized individual. Your officiant will sign and return your marriage license after the ceremony.
- Plan Your Ceremony: Coordinate with your officiant to organize the details of your wedding, including the date, time, and location. You may also want to arrange for additional services like venue rental, catering, or photography.
- Have Your Ceremony: On your wedding day, ensure your ceremony occurs in the presence of your officiant and at least one witness (this is a requirement in Arkansas). The officiant will pronounce you married during the exchange of vows and rings.
- File Your Marriage License: After the ceremony, your officiant is responsible for returning your signed marriage license to the county clerk’s office within a few days. Once it’s recorded, you can obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate for legal purposes.
It’s important to note that there may be additional requirements depending on individual circumstances, especially for non-U.S. citizens. It’s advisable to check with the local county clerk or a legal professional to ensure compliance with all necessary procedures.
How to Get Married Online in Arkansas
At VirtualMarriage.com, we make it easy for couples to tie the knot online through the Utah courts. With our service, you can complete the entire wedding process remotely, ensuring that your marriage certificate is valid in Arkansas.
- Sign Up for VirtualMarriage.com: Create an account on our platform and choose the online marriage option that suits you best.
- Book Your Ceremony with a Licensed Officiant: After registration, you’ll schedule your virtual ceremony with one of our licensed officiants through an intuitive online portal. Share your ceremony preferences, including personal vows, ring exchanges, and any cultural elements you wish to incorporate.
- Attend Your Ceremony Virtually: You will receive a calendar invitation with a link to join the scheduled ceremony. At least one witness is required for your wedding; this can be a friend or family member. If needed, we can assist in providing witnesses for an additional fee.
- Receive Your Marriage Certificate: After your virtual ceremony, our officiant will handle the necessary paperwork and submit it to the Utah courts. You’ll receive your marriage certificate, recognized in Arkansas and nationwide.
