Planning a Wedding in Missouri
When it comes to planning a wedding, Missouri is a captivating choice for many couples. The state offers a diverse range of beautiful settings, from scenic landscapes and charming small towns to vibrant cities like St. Louis and Kansas City. Whether you envision a romantic ceremony by the Lake of the Ozarks, an elegant celebration in a historic venue, or a cozy gathering in a picturesque park, Missouri has countless lovely spots to say “I do.” Additionally, you can incorporate local traditions that will make your wedding day truly special.
Are Online Marriages Legal in Missouri?
Traditionally, Missouri has had specific regulations regarding wedding ceremonies, requiring both the couple and the officiant to be present for the union to be legally recognized. Couples typically needed to visit a designated office to obtain a marriage license. However, many regulations have adapted to recent events.
Currently, couples in Missouri can legally get married online through the courts in Utah. This option allows you to complete the marriage process remotely, ensuring that your marriage certificate is recognized in all 50 states, including Missouri.
What’s Needed for an In-Person Wedding in Missouri
If you prefer a traditional in-person wedding, getting married in Missouri involves several steps, including obtaining a marriage license, finding an officiant, and planning your ceremony. The marriage license fee is typically around $51, 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 county clerk’s office in Missouri to obtain a marriage license. Valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, will be required, along with payment of 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 Missouri). 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 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 county clerk or a legal professional to ensure compliance with all necessary procedures.
How to Get Married Online in Missouri
At VirtualMarriage.com, we provide a convenient solution for couples wishing to tie the knot online through the Utah courts. Our service allows you to complete the entire marriage process remotely, ensuring that your marriage certificate is valid in Missouri.
- Sign Up for VirtualMarriage.com: Create your account on our platform and select the online marriage option that best 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 easy-to-use 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 needed, we can assist in providing witnesses for an additional fee.
- Receive Your Marriage Certificate: Following your virtual ceremony, our officiant will handle the necessary paperwork and submit it to the Utah courts. You’ll receive your marriage certificate, which is recognized in Missouri and nationwide.
