No. Service prices cover the professional service you select (license-only, ceremony-only, or license + ceremony). Government fees—such as the filing fee and certified copy fees—are separate because they are mandated and controlled by the county/state. Many couples choose at least one certified copy for benefits, HR, name change, or international use. Your final total is typically service price + government fees + any optional add-ons.

License-only is for couples who need a marriage license issued through the appropriate workflow but plan to use their own officiant later. License + ceremony combines licensing and solemnization into one appointment, which is why it’s often the fastest path to being legally married in one day. If you’re trying to avoid extra steps, the combined option reduces scheduling friction. Your best choice depends on what you already have and what you need next.

If you already have a license in hand, you typically book ceremony-only. Ceremony-only pricing covers the officiant/minister service and the correct signing steps required to complete the marriage. You may still choose add-ons such as guest upgrades or photography depending on your plan. Always bring the original license and valid IDs to avoid delays.

This is a legal eligibility requirement, not a pricing rule—but it can affect scheduling and totals if an appointment must be rescheduled. Both parties must understand what’s happening, answer basic questions, and freely consent at the time of signing and ceremony. If either party cannot demonstrate informed consent, services may be refused or moved to a later time. Planning for a calm, prepared appointment helps avoid last-minute changes.

Mobile services typically include travel within a 10-mile radius of the closest office region (e.g., Irvine, Los Angeles, or San Diego). If your location is beyond the included radius, the additional distance is charged at $8 per mile. For example, if you’re 15 miles away, that’s 5 miles beyond the included 10, and the travel add-on would be 5 × $8. This keeps mobile pricing predictable while fairly accounting for distance.

Office appointments are priced as office services and typically do not include mobile travel charges. Travel rules mainly apply when you request service at your location (home, venue, beach, hospital). If you’re cost-sensitive, office service can be a good way to reduce variables. Many couples choose office service for speed and simplicity and then celebrate elsewhere afterward.

A deposit is generally applied toward the service total while also securing the appointment time slot. Because deposits are described as non-refundable, they protect the calendar reservation and staffing commitment. Deposits are often transferable to a new wedding date within the allowed window (as stated), which helps if plans change. The exact application can be reflected on your invoice/receipt at checkout.

It means if you need to move your appointment date, you can typically apply the same deposit to a new date within 90 days of the original booking. This helps couples who run into travel delays, work scheduling issues, or family emergencies. It does not mean the deposit becomes refundable; it’s a rescheduling credit within the policy window. If you reschedule outside that window, you may need a new deposit depending on policy.

Certified copies are often used for name change, benefits enrollment, insurance, and international paperwork. Because certified copies are issued by the county, the per-copy fee is separate from service pricing. Couples commonly order more than one copy when multiple agencies need originals. Planning ahead avoids later delays if you realize you need additional certified copies for different institutions.

International use often requires a certified copy first, and then an apostille or legalization workflow depending on the destination country. That means your total cost can include service price + government fees + any apostille services you choose later. Apostille is typically done after the county issues certified copies, not on the same day as the ceremony. If you’re planning international use, it’s smart to request certified copies early and confirm the destination country’s requirements.

The casual tier is designed for a simple, meaningful ceremony without extra production. It commonly includes a smaller guest allowance (as stated) and typically does not include a dedicated chapel room. It’s ideal for couples who want legal solemnization with a light, personal moment. You can often add upgrades if you want a more formal setting or more guests.

The semi-formal upgrade adds structure and typically increases guest capacity. It may include access to a chapel room or a more refined setup depending on the package description. Couples choose semi-formal when they want photos that look more polished or when they have a few more guests. If you’re unsure, decide based on guest count first, then on the vibe you want.

Guest tier pricing helps match staffing and space needs to the size of your group. For 11–15 guests, pricing is commonly per person (as listed) so the increase scales with your actual count. This tier is typically applied only when you exceed the included guest limit. If your guest count is close, confirming your final number ahead of time helps avoid last-minute changes.

For larger guest counts, a flat fee is often easier than per-person pricing because it covers the bigger logistical jump in space and coordination. This tier usually applies only when your guest count falls into the specified range. If you’re planning 16–20 guests, also consider parking and arrival timing so your ceremony stays on schedule. Larger groups can also impact photography and venue rules, if applicable.

No. Photo packages are optional add-ons for couples who want keepsakes beyond personal phone photos. The basic package is typically a simple set of unedited images, while premium packages include professional editing for a more polished look. Travel photographer options are useful for mobile ceremonies, beaches, and private venues. Choose photo add-ons based on how you plan to use the images (sharing, printing, announcements).

Basic packages generally provide fewer images and little to no editing. Premium packages usually provide more photos and include professional editing for color, lighting, and presentation. If you want images that look “finished” for social media or printing, premium is usually the better match. If you only want a small keepsake set, basic can be sufficient.

Travel photography is ideal when your ceremony is at a special location (beach, venue, scenic overlook, private home) and you want coverage that matches the setting. It’s also helpful when you have guests and want group photos done efficiently. Because travel adds time and coordination, the pricing typically starts higher. If your location is far, you may also have travel-related pricing to consider.

Yes—many couples do a legal “paperwork day” first, then host a separate celebration later. This can reduce stress, simplify scheduling, and sometimes reduce costs because you’re not planning a full event around the legal appointment. You still get a legally valid marriage, and you can customize the later celebration however you want. This approach is especially popular for destination celebrations and international couples.

Guest flexibility depends on the specific package, room access, and the service type you select. Some office-based options are designed for couple-only or small groups, while others allow guests with tiered pricing. Mobile ceremonies can be flexible for space, but the location itself may have restrictions (venue rules, permits, noise ordinances). Decide first where you want the ceremony, then match a package to guest count.

Yes, specialty packages often price in the experience: timing, setting, and included guest capacity. These packages are designed for couples who want a specific vibe without building a full venue plan. If you like the “photo moment” built into the package, it can be a straightforward choice. You’ll still add government fees and any extras like additional certified copies or photography upgrades.

Ceremony-only options are typically the most direct fit when the license is already issued. The casual ceremony tier is commonly the starting point for simple, legal solemnization. If you only need an officiant signature and a brief ceremony, you avoid paying for license issuance again. Confirm you bring the correct original license and that it is still valid for use.

Mobile ceremony pricing depends on the package plus travel distance, not the type of location. However, public spaces sometimes require permits, parking fees, or time restrictions that are outside service pricing. If a permit is required, it is typically the couple’s responsibility to obtain it. Choosing a location that is easy to access can help keep timing predictable and avoid extra logistical friction.

Start with the base service price that matches your scenario (license-only, ceremony-only, or license + ceremony). Add required government fees (filing fee + number of certified copies you want). Then add optional items: photo package, guest tiers, and travel if you’re beyond the included radius. This “service + required fees + add-ons” model is the fastest way to estimate accurately.

Sales tax, if applicable, is typically based on service location and the nature of the services provided. Government fees are usually handled according to county/state rules and may not be treated the same as service fees. Because tax rules can vary, your checkout/invoice is the best reference for what was taxed. If you’re comparing scenarios, consider that mobile service might differ from office service in tax treatment depending on jurisdiction.

Often, yes. Guest tiers and room upgrades tend to increase totals because they require more space, coordination, and sometimes staffing. If you want the lowest total, couple-only or small-group options are usually the most efficient. You can still have a meaningful moment without a large crowd. Many couples choose to celebrate with friends later to keep the legal appointment streamlined.

To minimize costs for a mobile appointment, choose a location within the included travel radius and keep guest count within the included tier. Avoid last-minute location changes that could increase distance or require permits. If you already have a license, booking mobile ceremony-only can be less expensive than mobile license + ceremony. Your lowest mobile total depends on what you already have and where you are located.

Ordering multiple copies upfront is often convenient if you know you’ll need them for several agencies. It can reduce the chance of delays later when you discover an employer, DMV, passport agency, or foreign office needs an original certified copy. Because the county controls issuance, ordering later may add time. If you’re not sure, one copy can work as a starting point, but planning ahead is smoother.

No. License-only means the appointment is for the license issuance workflow; the solemnization/ceremony is separate. Some couples choose this when they have their own officiant (family member, religious officiant, or another minister). If you want to complete everything in one appointment, choose a license + ceremony option. Selecting the right service avoids paying for steps you don’t need.

Yes. Once you have a valid license, you can schedule a ceremony-only service later. This can be helpful if you’re handling the license first, then planning a special ceremony date or location afterward. Keep an eye on any validity windows that may apply to the license. Many couples do this to separate paperwork timing from celebration timing.

Yes. Couple-only refers to the ceremony attendance, not whether you can add photography. Some couples keep the ceremony private but still want professional photos for announcements and family. Photo packages are often flexible and can be added depending on availability. If you want a specific style, choose the package that aligns with editing and quantity expectations.

The biggest variables are (1) mobile travel distance beyond the included radius, (2) number of certified copies, (3) guest tiers and room upgrades, and (4) photography add-ons. If you’re trying to keep a budget stable, lock in your location and guest count early. Then decide how many certified copies you need and whether photos are important. Most totals become predictable once those choices are set.

Government filing fees are mandatory for processing the marriage record in the licensing workflow described. Certified copies are optional, but many couples choose at least one for proof of marriage. If you skip certified copies at the start, you can typically request them later through the county process. However, requesting later can add time, so plan based on your deadlines.

Plan for the base service that gets you legally married fastest (often license + ceremony) plus at least one certified copy, since HR frequently requires proof. If your deadline is tight, consider whether mobile service saves time or adds travel costs. Add any photo package only if it matters to you; it won’t usually affect the proof timeline. The key budget items for HR deadlines are service + filing + certified copy.

Hospital visits typically involve a mobile service option, so start with the relevant mobile package and add travel if outside the included radius. Also plan for filing fees and at least one certified copy if you will need proof. Facilities may have access rules, check-in steps, or limited visiting hours that can affect timing. Because these scenarios are sensitive, ensuring IDs and consent readiness helps avoid repeat visits.

Yes. Start with the marriage service price and government fees (including certified copies). Apostille/legalization is usually a post-marriage step, so you can plan it as a separate phase. The biggest early decision is how many certified copies you want and how quickly you may need them. Once you know the destination country, you can determine whether apostille or another authentication method is required.

Prioritize a service option that matches your timeline (often all-in-one), plus filing fees and certified copies. If you want service at a hotel or venue, consider travel add-ons. Because travel schedules can change, deposits and rescheduling flexibility matter. For travelers, the best “value” usually comes from reducing steps and getting everything done efficiently during the visit.

Often, yes. More guests can mean longer arrivals, more photo time, and more coordination at the start and end of the ceremony. That’s why pricing tiers exist—to align capacity and support with the group size. If you’re trying to keep things quick, smaller guest counts help. If you want a more celebratory feel, plan for the time and cost that comes with it.

Pick a package that clearly matches your needs and then keep the key variables stable: location distance, guest count, and add-ons. Confirm whether you need license issuance or already have a license. Decide certified copy quantity up front. Finally, avoid changing the ceremony location at the last minute, since travel charges can change totals quickly.

Base service prices are often listed as the same across regions, but travel charges depend on the closest office region and your exact location. Government fees are generally tied to the county/state process and are listed separately. If you’re choosing between regions, compare the travel distance and convenience rather than assuming a different base price. Your total is most sensitive to distance and add-ons, not the city name.

Chapel room access is typically tied to a specific package or an upgrade (such as semi-formal). That means your total may include the base ceremony or license + ceremony price plus the upgrade amount. Guest count may also matter if the room has capacity tiers. If a room matters to you for photos and privacy, selecting the correct package upfront is the easiest path.

Start with the ceremony-only base tier, then add the upgrade if you want semi-formal/chapel room access. Next, apply the guest tier pricing for guests beyond the included number. Government fees may not apply the same way when you already have a license, since filing may be tied to your licensing workflow—but certified copies are still a county process after recording. This is why separating “service price” vs. “government fees” makes totals easier to understand.

Government fees are generally driven by the licensing/recording process, not by where the ceremony happens. Mobile service changes the service price and potentially adds travel charges, but the filing fee and certified copy fees remain separate. Think of mobile as a convenience/location choice. The legal record still follows the appropriate county/state procedures.

Yes. Photo packages are optional add-ons and can meaningfully change totals. Many couples use personal phone photos and keep the appointment focused on the legal process. If you later decide you want professional photos, you can plan a separate photoshoot. The legal marriage can be simple while the “photo moment” can be scheduled separately.

Most couples can budget confidently by listing: (1) chosen service price, (2) filing fee, (3) number of certified copies, (4) mobile travel add-on if applicable, and (5) any guest tier or photo upgrades. If you’re unsure on copies, start with one or two. If you’re unsure on guests, set a firm number early. This checklist prevents the most common “surprise” items.

No—add-ons like photography or style upgrades do not change the legal validity. Legal validity comes from meeting requirements (ID, consent, eligibility) and completing the correct signing and filing steps. Add-ons simply affect the experience and deliverables. If your priority is legality and speed, focus on the right service type and required fees first.

Errors can cause delays and may require rework depending on what the error is and when it’s discovered. The best way to avoid that is to bring correct IDs, confirm spelling, and verify legal names in advance. If a reschedule is needed due to incorrect information, deposit and scheduling policies may apply. Taking five minutes to double-check details is often the cheapest “insurance.”

Pricing is primarily based on the service type and add-ons, but availability can influence which packages are practical. Holidays can also influence which locations or options are easiest (office vs. mobile). If your plan is time-sensitive, choose the most direct service option and keep variables simple. For holiday marriages, focus on readiness (IDs, consent, required info) to avoid delays.

The travel rule is described as “$8 per mile beyond the included radius,” which is typically based on distance rules used by the service provider. If you want a precise total for a specific address, use the closest office region and calculate distance beyond 10 miles as described. Because definitions can vary, your checkout or quote will show the final travel total applied. Keeping your location close to the included radius is the easiest way to control this variable.

Many couples choose a confidential license workflow combined with a small ceremony (couple-only or small guest count). Office options can be efficient, while mobile options maximize privacy at your chosen location. Your budget depends on whether you choose mobile travel and how many add-ons you select. If privacy is the priority, focus on confidential license options and a small attendance plan.

Bring valid government-issued photo IDs for both parties and ensure both partners are able to consent and answer basic questions. If you already have a license, bring the original document and confirm it’s valid for use. Have your preferred certified copy quantity in mind and confirm your guest count if you’re using guest tiers. Finally, for mobile service, provide a clear address and plan for parking/access to keep the appointment on time.