Title: What Are the Steps to Getting Married in One Day?

Introduction: The Modern Solution for Urgent Marriages

Gone are the days when planning a wedding took months of preparation. Whether due to military deployment, immigration deadlines, personal preference, or the desire for a spontaneous and romantic experience, many couples are now seeking fast and legally binding marriage solutions. At Get Married Today, we specialize in same-day marriage services that remove all barriers—so you can get married in just one day. But how exactly does the process work? This comprehensive guide walks you through every step to getting married in one day, with expert insights, legal tips, and fast-track solutions.


Step 1: Understand the Legal Requirements in Your State

Marriage laws vary by state. In California, for example, there is no waiting period after receiving your marriage license. That means you can apply for your license and get married on the same day. Other states may require a waiting period ranging from 24 hours to several days.

Checklist:

  • Age requirement: 18 or older (underage applicants need parental consent and court approval)
  • Valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, or military ID)
  • Social Security Number (if applicable)
  • No existing marriage (must be divorced or widowed with documentation)

Get Married Today services are based in California where same-day marriage is legal and supported.


Step 2: Choose a Same-Day Marriage Service Provider

Trying to handle the paperwork and ceremony yourself in one day can be difficult, especially if county clerks are closed or backlogged. This is where Get Married Today shines. We are authorized to issue confidential marriage licenses and perform legal ceremonies, all in one visit.

Why choose us?

  • No need to visit the courthouse
  • Marriage license and ceremony handled together
  • Available 24/7, including weekends and holidays
  • We serve all of Southern California

Step 3: Gather Your Required Documents

To get married in one day, you need to be prepared with the correct documentation. Here’s what you should have ready:

Required:

  • Valid photo ID for both parties
  • Proof of divorce or death certificate if previously married

Optional but helpful:

  • Utility bill or lease with matching addresses (for ID verification)
  • Social Security card or number (if applicable)

If either party is from another country, we recommend bringing a passport and immigration documents.


Step 4: Book Your Appointment Online

Time is of the essence. Fortunately, Get Married Today allows you to book your appointment directly online at https://getmarried.today. Select your location, preferred time, and whether you want an indoor chapel, outdoor setting, or mobile officiant.

Booking confirmation includes:

  • Appointment time
  • Instructions on what to bring
  • Location details

You can also call or text us for emergency appointments.


Step 5: Arrive Prepared for Your Appointment

Be punctual. When you arrive, our officiant or notary will verify your identification, review your documents, and prepare your marriage license.

What happens during your appointment:

  1. Document verification
  2. Marriage license issuance
  3. Legal ceremony conducted by licensed officiant
  4. Signing and notarizing the marriage license
  5. Filing with the County Clerk’s Office

All of this takes place in about 60-90 minutes.


Step 6: Choose Your Ceremony Style

Whether you want a romantic, low-key exchange or a more traditional moment, we offer customizable ceremony options:

  • Elopement packages
  • Outdoor ceremonies at scenic locations
  • Indoor chapel ceremonies
  • Mobile officiant to your home, hotel, or venue

We can also arrange photography, floral arrangements, and personalized vows if requested in advance.


Step 7: Receive Proof of Marriage Immediately

After your ceremony, we provide:

  • A keepsake marriage certificate
  • A signed, sealed marriage license for legal filing
  • Instructions for ordering your official marriage certificate from the county

If you need international documentation, we also offer apostille services so your marriage is recognized abroad.


Step 8: (Optional) Request Apostille Certification for International Use

If one or both of you are foreign nationals, or plan to move abroad, you may need an apostille for your marriage certificate. We can help:

  • Apostille for Hague Convention countries
  • Legalization for non-member countries
  • Translation services available

This process can be expedited and coordinated by Get Married Today through our partner network.


Step 9: Order Your Official Marriage Certificate

The marriage license we file is what creates your legal marriage, but the official marriage certificate is the document you need for:

  • Name change
  • Immigration filings (I-130, K-1, Adjustment of Status)
  • Military spousal benefits
  • Health insurance and legal identification

We guide you step-by-step in ordering this document, or handle it for you as part of our VIP service.


Step 10: Celebrate Your New Life Together

Just because it was quick doesn’t mean it wasn’t meaningful. Take time to celebrate! We offer mini photo shoots, local restaurant recommendations, and romantic add-ons to help mark your big day.


Why Get Married Today is the Best Option for One-Day Marriages

We specialize in:

  • Same-day marriage license issuance
  • Legally binding ceremonies
  • 24/7 availability, including holidays
  • Fast apostille services for international couples
  • Personalized ceremonies and mobile officiants

We support:

  • Military couples
  • Immigration-focused marriages
  • Emergency or hospital weddings
  • Elopements and surprise weddings

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Get Married Today

If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to get married in just one day—it absolutely is. With Get Married Today, everything you need is streamlined into one seamless visit. From license to ceremony, and even international documentation, we handle it all.

Start your forever today. Book your appointment at https://getmarried.today or call us now. We’re here to make your love official, fast.


FAQs

Q: Do I need to be a California resident to get married in California?
A: No. California does not have a residency requirement for marriage.

Q: Is the marriage legally valid?
A: Yes. Our officiants are legally authorized, and your license is filed with the county.

Q: What is a confidential marriage license?
A: It’s a license that doesn’t require witnesses and keeps your marriage record private.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: Prices vary depending on the package but start as low as $299. Visit our website for full pricing.

Q: Can I get an apostille for my marriage certificate?
A: Yes. We provide apostille and translation services for international recognition.

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Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk – Marriage Services

Orange County Clerk-Recorder – Marriage Services

San Diego County – Marriage Licenses

Riverside County Clerk – Marriage License Info

Sacramento County Clerk – Marriage License Appointments

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American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy

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City of Irvine – Marriage Info

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Marriage Trends

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