Planning a Wedding in South Dakota
When it comes to planning a wedding, South Dakota is a stunning choice for many couples. The state is known for its incredible natural beauty, from the majestic Black Hills and the iconic Badlands to the serene lakes and charming small towns. Whether you envision a romantic ceremony in a picturesque outdoor setting, a cozy celebration in a rustic barn, or an elegant gathering in a historic venue, South Dakota has countless lovely spots to say “I do.” Additionally, you can incorporate local traditions that will make your wedding day uniquely special.
Are Online Marriages Legal in South Dakota?
Traditionally, South Dakota 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 due to recent events.
Currently, couples in South Dakota can legally get married online through the courts in Utah. This option allows you to complete the marriage process remotely, ensuring your marriage certificate is recognized in all 50 states, including South Dakota.
What’s Needed for an In-Person Wedding in South Dakota
If you prefer a traditional in-person wedding, getting married in South Dakota involves several steps, including obtaining a marriage license, finding an officiant, and planning your ceremony. The marriage license fee is typically around $40, 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 Register of Deeds office in South Dakota 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 90 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 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 two witnesses (this is a requirement in South Dakota). 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 Register of Deeds 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 Register of Deeds office or a legal professional to ensure compliance with all necessary procedures.
How to Get Married Online in South Dakota
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 South Dakota.
- 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 two witnesses are required for your wedding; these can be friends or family members. 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 South Dakota and nationwide.
