Planning a Wedding in Delaware
When it comes to planning a wedding, Delaware is a delightful choice for many couples. The state offers a mix of charming coastal towns, beautiful beaches, and historic venues, making it an ideal backdrop for your special day. Whether you envision a romantic ceremony on the shores of Rehoboth Beach, an elegant affair in Wilmington, or a quaint gathering in a picturesque garden, Delaware presents countless stunning spots to say “I do.” Furthermore, you can incorporate unique local traditions that make your wedding day even more special.
Are Online Marriages Legal in Delaware?
Historically, Delaware had specific regulations regarding wedding ceremonies, requiring both the couple and the officiant to be present for the union to be legally recognized. Couples needed to visit designated offices to obtain a marriage license. However, many regulations have evolved in response to recent circumstances.
Currently, couples in Delaware can legally get married online through the courts in Utah. This option enables you to complete your marriage process remotely, with your marriage certificate recognized in all 50 states, including Delaware.
What’s Needed for an In-Person Wedding in Delaware
If you opt for a traditional in-person wedding, getting married in Delaware involves several steps, including obtaining a marriage license, finding an officiant, and planning your ceremony. The marriage license fee is typically around $50, 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 local Department of Health and Social Services office or a designated office in Delaware to obtain a marriage license. You will need to provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, and pay the applicable fee. The marriage license is valid for 30 days.
- Find an Officiant: You’ll need to secure an authorized officiant to perform your wedding ceremony. This can be a minister, judge, or any other 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 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 Delaware). 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 appropriate office, typically within a few days. Once recorded, you can obtain a certified copy of your marriage certificate for legal purposes.
It’s important to note that additional requirements may vary based on individual circumstances, especially for non-U.S. citizens. It’s advisable to check with the local office or a legal professional to ensure compliance with all necessary procedures.
How to Get Married Online in Delaware
At VirtualMarriage.com, we make it easy for couples to tie the knot online through the Utah courts. Our service allows you to complete the entire marriage process remotely, guaranteeing that your marriage certificate is valid in Delaware.
- Sign Up for VirtualMarriage.com: Create your account on our platform and select the online marriage option that fits your needs.
- 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. You’ll provide details for 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 your scheduled ceremony. At least one witness is required for your wedding; this can be a friend or family member. If necessary, we can assist in providing witnesses for an additional fee.
- Receive Your Marriage Certificate: Following your virtual ceremony, our officiant will handle the paperwork and submit it to the Utah courts. You’ll receive your marriage certificate, which is recognized in Delaware and nationwide.
