Orange County Weddings Made Easy: Same-Day Marriage Services & Paperwork

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially when you’re eager to tie the knot without unnecessary delays. Fortunately, Orange County, California, offers a variety of same-day marriage services that streamline the process, allowing couples to focus on celebrating their love. This guide provides comprehensive information on obtaining a marriage license, understanding the requirements, and exploring same-day marriage services in Orange County.

Understanding Marriage Licenses in Orange County

Before diving into same-day marriage services, it’s essential to understand the basics of obtaining a marriage license in Orange County.

Types of Marriage Licenses

Orange County offers two types of marriage licenses:

1. Public Marriage License: This license becomes a public record, and anyone can request an informational copy. It can be used anywhere in California and requires at least one witness during the ceremony.
2. Confidential Marriage License: This license remains a confidential record, accessible only to the couple, except by special court order. To obtain this license, couples must be living together prior to the marriage. It can also be used anywhere in California.

Requirements for Obtaining a Marriage License

To obtain a marriage license in Orange County, couples must:

• Be Over 18 Years Old: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. There are no citizenship or residency requirements, and blood tests are not required.
• Complete an Online Application: Couples must submit their marriage license application online prior to visiting the Clerk-Recorder Department.
• Appear Together In Person: Both parties must appear together at the Clerk-Recorder Department to obtain the marriage license.
• Present Valid Identification: Each person must present one form of valid, non-expired, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
• Provide Necessary Documents: If divorced within the last 90 days, provide a copy of the divorce decree. If a spouse is deceased within the previous 90 days, provide a certified copy of the death certificate.
• Select Desired Name(s): Decide on the name each wishes to use after marriage, to be listed on the marriage license. Changes must be made at the time of signing the marriage license; otherwise, a court order is required for future changes.

Same-Day Marriage Services in Orange County

For couples eager to get married without delay, several providers in Orange County offer same-day marriage services, handling both the issuance of marriage licenses and the performance of ceremonies.

Get Married Today

Overview: Get Married Today specializes in same-day marriage licenses and ceremonies, providing a seamless and efficient process for couples. They are licensed and commissioned by the State of California, authorized by the County, and have ordained officiants to legalize marriages on the same day. citeturn0search4

Services Offered:

• Marriage License Issuance: They can issue a confidential marriage license on the spot, eliminating the need for a visit to the county clerk’s office.
• Marriage Ceremony: Perform casual or semi-formal ceremonies immediately after issuing the license.
• Mobile Services: Offers the flexibility to conduct ceremonies at a location of your choice for an additional fee.

Process:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at one of their offices or a location of your choice and bring valid identification.
2. Complete Documentation: Spend approximately 30-45 minutes filling out and signing necessary documents, including the marriage license.
3. Notarization: A Notary Public will notarize the marriage license and sworn statement.
4. Ceremony: Customize and commence the ceremony with their ordained minister.
5. Finalization: The officiant signs the marriage license, and all documents are filed with the County. You’ll receive proof of marriage immediately.
6. Official Certificate: The official License and Certificate of Marriage will be mailed to your address from the County within 5-7 weeks.

Locations:

• Irvine Office: 17875 Von Karman Avenue, Suite 150, Irvine, CA 92614. This location offers an indoor chapel accommodating 15-20 guests, ideal for intimate gatherings.

Contact:

• Phone: +1-888-452-1505
• Website: https://getmarried.today/

Orange County Clerk-Recorder Department

Overview: The Orange County Clerk-Recorder Department offers marriage licenses and civil ceremonies by appointment, providing a straightforward option for couples.

Services Offered:

• Marriage License Issuance: Available for both walk-in service and by appointment; however, customers must complete an online marriage application prior to visiting any of their offices.
• Civil Ceremonies: Non-sectarian wedding ceremonies are performed for a fee of $28. Ceremonies can be conducted at their offices in Anaheim, Laguna Hills, and the historic Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana.

Process:

1. Complete Online Application: Submit your marriage license application online before visiting their offices.
2. Schedule an Appointment: Appointments are highly recommended and can be made online. Walk-in services are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
3. Obtain License and Ceremony: Appear together in person with valid identification to obtain the license and, if desired, have the ceremony performed.