So You Wanna Tie the Knot in Cali? A Hitchhiker's Guide to Getting Married
Ah, California. The land of sunshine, beaches, and...apparently, easy weddings? That's right, folks. Getting hitched in the Golden State is about as complicated as deciding what kind of avocado toast to order (truffle or everything bagel, btw?). But fear not, lovebirds! This guide will cut through the legalese and get you from "Maybe" to "I Do" faster than you can say "In-N-Out."
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| What Do You Need To Get Married In California |
First things first: The License to Thrill (or Chill)
California doesn't care if you're a Hollywood A-lister or a couple who eloped on a whim (Vegas, anyone?). As long as you have a valid marriage license, you're good to go. Think of it as your VIP pass to wedded bliss. Here's what you'll need to snag this magical document:
QuickTip: A quick skim can reveal the main idea fast.
- Ages 18 and over? Check. This ain't high school prom, folks.
- Not currently married (to each other or anyone else)? Double check. Bigamy is a real mood killer.
- Valid government ID? You betcha. Driver's license, passport, something that says you're a real person and not a figment of your fianc�(e)'s imagination.
- Ability to answer some basic questions? Easy peasy. Like your parents' names and where you were born. (Though, if you can't remember those, maybe rethink this whole marriage thing...)
Bonus Round: Some counties might ask for your birth certificates, but hey, that's just them being nosy (and making sure you're not secretly royalty or something).
Tip: A slow skim is better than a rushed read.
Pro Tip: Head to your local County Clerk's office. They'll be happy to answer any questions you have, because apparently processing paperwork is their idea of a good time.
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
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The Ceremony: From Courthouse Chic to Beachside Bonanza
Now for the fun part! California doesn't discriminate when it comes to your wedding venue. Want a courthouse ceremony with the pigeons as your witnesses? Rock on. Dreaming of a barefoot ceremony on the beach with crashing waves as your soundtrack? You do you, boo.
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
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The one tiny detail: You gotta have someone authorized to perform the ceremony. This could be a judge, a religious leader, or even a commissioner you met online (just make sure they're legit!).
Side Note: Witnesses are nice, but not mandatory. Though, if you're planning an Elvis impersonator officiant on the beach, having some backup witnesses might be a good idea. Just in case the whole thing turns out to be a fever dream.
And After the "I Do's"? Don't Forget the "Oops!"
Once you've said your vows and sealed the deal with a kiss (or a high five, no judgement), there's one last hurdle: returning your marriage license. Yeah, the County Clerk wants their permission slip back. Don't worry, they won't frame it or anything.
Here's the catch: You have 90 days to return the license after it's issued. Don't be that couple who gets so caught up in post-wedding bliss that they forget this crucial step. Because trust me, a visit from the "Marriage License Police" is not how you want to start your happily ever after.
So there you have it, lovebirds! Getting married in California is a breeze. Now get out there, soak up the sun, and tie the knot! Just remember, the most important ingredient for a successful marriage is love, laughter, and maybe a lifetime supply of In-N-Out.
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