So You Wanna Get Hitched in the Peach State? The Ultimate Guide (Because Let's Face It, Planning a Wedding is Stressful Enough)
Ah, Georgia. The land of peanuts, peaches, and...getting married? You betcha! Whether you're a local or a lovebird from out of town, Georgia welcomes you with open arms (and possibly a plate of fried okra, but that's a story for another time). But before you say "I do" under a canopy of Spanish moss (because let's be real, Georgia is all about the drama), there are a few things you need to know. Don't worry, this guide will be your wingman (or wingwoman) through the legalities of love in the South.
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| Can I Marry Someone In Georgia |
Can Anyone Get Married in Georgia? Well, Almost...
Almost everyone, my friend! Georgia is pretty chill when it comes to who can tie the knot. Here's the lowdown:
- Age Ain't Nothing But a Number (Except When It Is): Generally, you gotta be 18 to walk down the aisle. But hey, if you're 17 and really know what you're doing, with parental consent, you might be able to snag a special permit. Just sayin'.
- Love is Love: Georgia recognizes same-sex marriage, so love truly conquers all.
- Foreign Flair? No Problem: Planning a destination wedding? International couples are welcome with open arms (and possibly a plate of grits, but again, another story).
Important Note: You can't be married to someone else already, that's a big no-no. And you gotta be mentally sound to make those vows. Seems reasonable, right?
The Nitty-Gritty: Getting Your License to Love
So, you've confirmed you're not a bigamist and you're of sound mind (congrats on both!). Now it's time for the official paperwork tango. Here's what you need to do:
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
- Head to the Courthouse: Hit up your local probate court. They're the keepers of the keys to wedded bliss (or at least, the marriage license).
- Bring Your A-Game (and ID): Proof of age, social security number, and a valid ID are your weapons of choice.
- Pay the Fee: It's a small price to pay for a lifetime of (hopefully) happiness. The fee varies by county, but it's usually around $50. Bonus points if you take a pre-marital education course, it can knock the price down!
Pro Tip: Don't lose the license! You have 30 days to get hitched after you get it, and then you gotta return it to the courthouse so they can make it official.
Okay, I Got the License, Now What?
Now comes the fun part: the actual wedding! Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Find an Officiant: Someone needs to say those magic words. It can be a judge, a minister, or even someone you get ordained online (because why not?).
- Say "I Do" in Style: There's no residency requirement, so get married on a mountaintop, in a historic mansion, or even on the beach (just don't forget the sunscreen).
- Witness, Witness: You need two cool cats to sign the marriage license and be your official witnesses.
Remember: Once you say "I do" and get it all signed, sealed, and delivered, return the completed license to the courthouse within 30 days. Then, voila! You're officially a married couple in the great state of Georgia.
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered (Because We Know You Have Them)
How to get a marriage license in Georgia?
Head to your local probate court with proof of age, ID, and some cash.
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How long does a marriage license last in Georgia?
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
You have 30 days to get hitched after you get the license.
Can I get married outdoors in Georgia?
Absolutely! There's no residency requirement, so get creative with your wedding venue.
QuickTip: Compare this post with what you already know.
What do I need to do after I get married in Georgia?
Return the signed marriage license to the probate court within 30 days of the ceremony.
How much does it cost to get married in Georgia?
The marriage license fee varies by county, but it's usually around $50. Premarital education courses can get you a discount!
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