Quick & Easy Wedding Ceremonies: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking for quick wedding ceremonies, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s a civil ceremony, elopement, or simple microwedding, our guide will help you plan a fast, stress-free event.
Here’s a quick overview to get started:
- Elopement: A private, often unplanned ceremony with minimal guests.
- Microwedding: A more intimate wedding with 20-50 guests.
- Civil Ceremony: Conducted by a government official, simple and straightforward.
I’m Camden Gray Alchanati, the founder of Get Married Today. With my experience in providing same-day marriage licenses and officiating countless quick ceremonies, I can assure you that tying the knot can be a joyous and hassle-free experience.
What is a Quick Wedding Ceremony?
A quick wedding ceremony is a streamlined, efficient way to get married without the lengthy planning and high costs often associated with traditional weddings. There are several types to consider:
Elopement
Elopement is typically a private and spontaneous ceremony with minimal guests, often just the couple and an officiant. Elopements are perfect for couples who want a low-key, intimate experience without the fuss of a big wedding.
Example: In Southern California, many couples choose to elope at scenic spots like Joshua Tree National Park or the beaches of Malibu. These locations offer stunning backdrops for a quick yet memorable ceremony.
Microwedding
A microwedding is a small-scale wedding with 20-50 guests, combining the intimacy of an elopement with some elements of a traditional wedding. It’s a great option for couples who want to celebrate with close family and friends without the stress of a large event.
Fun Fact: According to Wedding Forward, microweddings have become increasingly popular since 2020, as they are more affordable and allow couples to focus on the people who matter most.
Civil Ceremony
A civil ceremony is a non-religious wedding conducted by a government official, such as a judge or a county clerk. These ceremonies are simple and straightforward, often taking place in a courthouse or a government office.
Tip: In Southern California, you can reserve a spot at the San Mateo County Chapel for a civil ceremony. They even offer live streaming options for guests who can’t attend in person.
Ready to plan your quick wedding ceremony in Southern California? Contact us at (949) 423-6731 or book today: Get Married Today.
How to Plan a Quick Wedding Ceremony
Planning a quick wedding ceremony can be simple if you break it down into a few key steps. Let’s dive into how to choose the right venue, select an officiant, and obtain a marriage license.
Choosing the Right Venue
Choosing the right venue is crucial for a quick wedding. Here are some simple and affordable options:
Backyard Weddings:
A backyard wedding is intimate and budget-friendly. You can personalize the space to fit your style and have full control over the environment. Just ensure you have enough seating and amenities for your guests.
Fast Food Restaurants:
Believe it or not, some couples choose fast food restaurants for a quirky and memorable wedding. These venues are often very affordable and can be a fun, casual setting.
Airbnbs:
Renting an Airbnb can provide a unique and cozy atmosphere. Many properties offer beautiful backdrops for your ceremony and can double as accommodation for you and your guests. Make sure to check with the host about hosting an event.
Selecting an Officiant
Your officiant will guide the ceremony and make it legally binding. Here are some options:
Civil Officiants:
Civil officiants, such as judges or county clerks, are a popular choice for quick weddings. They often perform ceremonies at courthouses or government offices. In Southern California, you can book a civil ceremony at the San Mateo County Chapel.
Friends and Family:
Having a friend or family member officiate can add a personal touch. They need to get ordained, which is usually a quick online process. Websites like Universal Life Church offer free ordination services.
Online Ordination:
Online ordination is a convenient way for your chosen officiant to become legally recognized. Make sure they comply with California’s legal requirements for officiants.
Obtaining a Marriage License
Obtaining a marriage license is a critical step. Here’s how to do it in California:
Same-Day Licenses:
In California, you can get married on the same day you obtain your marriage license. Visit a county clerk’s office together, provide valid identification, and pay the fee. Some counties offer a “confidential marriage license,” which doesn’t require a waiting period or witnesses.
California Requirements:
Both parties must appear in person with valid ID (like a driver’s license or passport). Fees vary by county, so check beforehand. No blood test is required.
Legal Documentation:
Make sure you have all necessary legal documents. This includes your IDs, completed marriage license application, and payment for the fee. After the ceremony, your officiant will sign the license and file it with the county.
Planning a quick wedding ceremony doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right venue, officiant, and license, you can have a beautiful and memorable day.
For further questions, call us at (949) 423-6731 or book today: Get Married Today.
Sample Quick Wedding Ceremony Scripts
Creating a wedding ceremony script can be daunting, especially if you want it to be short and meaningful. Below are sample scripts for both short and non-religious ceremonies. Feel free to customize these scripts to suit your unique needs.
Short and Sweet Script
This script is ideal for couples looking for a quick wedding ceremony that still captures the essence of their love and commitment.
Welcoming Remarks:
“Friends and family, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of [Partner A] and [Partner B]. Thank you for joining us on this special day.”
Vows:
Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [Partner A], take [Partner B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife/partner]? Will you love, honor, and cherish them through all life’s challenges?”
Partner A: “I do.”
Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [Partner B], take [Partner A] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife/partner]? Will you love, honor, and cherish them through all life’s challenges?”
Partner B: “I do.”
Ring Exchange:
Officiant: “The rings you exchange today symbolize your unending love. Please repeat after me.”
Partner A: “With this ring, I give you my love and commitment.”
Partner B: “With this ring, I give you my love and commitment.”
Pronouncement:
“By the authority vested in me by the State of California, I now pronounce you married. You may kiss your partner.”
Non-Religious Script
For couples who prefer a secular approach, this non-religious wedding ceremony script is straightforward and heartfelt.
Invocation:
“Dear friends and family, we are gathered here today to witness and celebrate the union of [Partner A] and [Partner B]. Their love and commitment have brought them to this moment, ready to embark on a lifelong journey together.”
Vows:
Officiant to Partner A: “Do you, [Partner A], take [Partner B] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife/partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, love, trust, and commit to them through joy and pain, sickness and health, until death do you part?”
Partner A: “I do.”
Officiant to Partner B: “Do you, [Partner B], take [Partner A] to be your lawfully wedded [husband/wife/partner]? Will you honor and cherish them, love, trust, and commit to them through joy and pain, sickness and health, until death do you part?”
Partner B: “I do.”
Ring Exchange:
Officiant: “At this time, [Partner A] and [Partner B] will exchange rings. These rings are symbols of your commitment and love.”
Partner A: “With this ring, I give you my love and commitment.”
Partner B: “With this ring, I give you my love and commitment.”
Declaration of Marriage:
“By the power vested in me by the State of California, I now pronounce you married. You may kiss your partner.”
These scripts are just starting points. Feel free to add personal touches, such as custom vows or special readings, to make your ceremony uniquely yours.
For further assistance, call us at (949) 423-6731 or book today: Get Married Today.
Next, let’s explore Tips for a Memorable Quick Wedding Ceremony…
Tips for a Memorable Quick Wedding Ceremony
Adding Personal Touches
Infusing personal touches into your quick wedding ceremony can make it unforgettable. Here are some ideas:
Custom Vows: Write your own vows. This allows you to express your feelings in a way traditional vows might not. Mindy Weiss recommends focusing on your unique journey together, sharing anecdotes, inside jokes, or meaningful milestones.
Family Involvement: Include family members in the ceremony. They can perform readings, sing a song, or even walk you down the aisle. This adds a layer of intimacy and connection.
Unique Rituals: Incorporate rituals that are meaningful to you. Provenance offers a library of 300+ nonreligious and religious rituals and readings you can choose from. Consider a unity candle, sand ceremony, or even a handfasting ritual to symbolize your union.
Incorporating Special Readings
Special readings can add depth and emotion to your ceremony. They can reflect your love, beliefs, or future hopes. Here are some options:
Love Poems: A poem can beautifully capture the essence of your love. Consider “A Wedding Toast” by James Bertolino or “In One Another’s Souls” by Rumi. These poems are perfect for setting a romantic tone.
Inspirational Quotes: Quotes from literature, movies, or even songs can be powerful. For example, Lao Tzu’s quote, “Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength while loving someone deeply gives you courage,” is timeless and meaningful.
Religious Texts: If you prefer a spiritual touch, include readings from religious texts. Whether it’s a Bible verse, a passage from the Quran, or a quote from Buddhist teachings, these can add a sacred element to your ceremony.
For further questions or to book your wedding, contact us at (949) 423-6731 or visit Get Married Today.
Next, let’s dive into Frequently Asked Questions about Quick Wedding Ceremonies…
Frequently Asked Questions about Quick Wedding Ceremonies
How Quick Can a Wedding Ceremony Be?
Quick wedding ceremonies can be as short as 15 minutes or extend to 30 minutes, depending on your preferences. A 15-minute ceremony typically includes the essentials: welcoming remarks, vows, ring exchange, and pronouncement. This keeps things focused and efficient.
For example, many couples opt for a 20-30 minute ceremony to allow for a few personal touches like a short story about their relationship or a special reading. This length is still quite brief but offers a bit more room for personalization.
Can I Have a Short Wedding Ceremony?
Absolutely! A short marriage ceremony is entirely possible and can be customized to fit your needs. Whether you prefer a non-denominational wedding or something more traditional, the length is up to you. The key is to focus on what matters most to you and your partner.
Legal requirements in California are minimal for the ceremony itself. As long as the essential elements are included—such as the declaration of intent and pronouncement—you can keep it as brief as you like. Personal preferences and the inclusion of any special rituals or readings will determine the final length.
What is a Quick Wedding Called?
A quick wedding is often referred to by several names:
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Elopement: Traditionally, this means getting married without a large ceremony, often in a spontaneous or secretive manner. Today, elopements can be planned and still be intimate and quick.
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Microwedding: This is a small wedding with fewer than 50 guests. It combines the intimacy of an elopement with the structure of a traditional wedding.
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Civil Ceremony: Conducted by a judge or a civil officiant, these ceremonies are usually short and to the point, focusing on the legal aspect of marriage.
For further questions or to book your wedding, contact us at (949) 423-6731 or visit Get Married Today.
Conclusion
At Get Married Today, we specialize in making your wedding day both memorable and hassle-free. Our services are designed for couples who want a quick, yet meaningful ceremony. Whether you’re planning an elopement, a microwedding, or a civil ceremony, we have you covered.
Same-Day Marriage Licenses
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Get Married Today is our ability to provide same-day marriage licenses. This means you can apply for your license and get married on the same day, making the process incredibly convenient. For more details on obtaining a same-day license in Southern California, you can visit the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk’s website or the San Diego County Clerk’s website.
Serving Southern California
We proudly offer our services throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles and San Diego. Whether you’re a local resident or visiting from out of town, our team is ready to help you tie the knot quickly and effortlessly.
Contact Us
For any questions or to book your expedited wedding service, please contact us at (949) 423-6731 or visit our website to book your appointment.
Your happily ever after starts today with Get Married Today. Let us make your wedding day simple, legal, and unforgettable.