 Planning a Wedding in Colorado
When it comes to planning a wedding, Colorado is a breathtaking choice for many couples. The state offers stunning landscapes, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to vibrant cities like Denver and Boulder, allowing you to create a wedding that feels just right for you. Whether you envision an intimate mountain ceremony, a chic urban celebration, or a serene outdoor event surrounded by nature, Colorado provides countless picturesque spots to say “I do.” Plus, with its diverse culture and beautiful scenery, you can incorporate unique Colorado traditions that make your day special.
Are Online Marriages Legal in Colorado?
Historically, Colorado had specific regulations surrounding weddings and officiants, requiring both the couple and the officiant to be present for the union to be recognized. Couples needed to visit a designated office to obtain a marriage license. However, many of these regulations adapted during the pandemic.
As it stands now, couples in Colorado can legally get married online through the courts in Utah. This option allows you to complete your marriage process from anywhere, and your marriage certificate is recognized in all 50 states, including Colorado.
What’s Needed for an In-Person Wedding in Colorado
If you prefer a traditional in-person wedding, getting married in Colorado involves several steps, including obtaining a marriage license, finding an officiant, and planning your ceremony. The marriage license fee is typically around $30, and there is no waiting period for residents.
Here’s an overview of the process:
- Obtain a Marriage License: Both parties must apply in person at any Colorado County Clerk and Recorder’s office to obtain a marriage license. Valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, will be required, along with the payment of the fee. The marriage license is valid for 35 days.
- Find an Officiant: You’ll 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 might also want to arrange other 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 Colorado). The officiant will pronounce you married during your 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, typically 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 Colorado
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 Colorado.
- 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 Colorado and nationwide.
