So You Wanna Tie the Knot in the Peach State? A Not-So-Serious Guide to Getting Married in Georgia
Congratulations! You've found your lobster, your soulmate, your other half (or maybe just the person who tolerates your weird sock collection). Now it's time to make it official with some good ol' fashioned matrimony. But before you rush off to get matching Elvis costumes for the ceremony (though, we won't judge...), there are a few hoops to jump through to get legally married in Georgia. Don't worry, though, this guide will be smoother than a plate of grits at a family reunion.
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| How To Get Legally Married In Georgia |
Step 1: You Gotta Get Licensed, Baby!
First things first, you need a marriage license. Think of it like a VIP pass to wedded bliss. You can snag one at your local county probate court. Bonus points if you can find a courthouse with a particularly grand staircase for some epic wedding announcement photos.
There are a few things to keep in mind here:
Tip: Reread slowly for better memory.
- Gotta be 18 (or almost 18): In Georgia, you gotta be at least 18 to get married. Unless... you're 17 and get permission from a judge. But that's a whole other story.
- Bring your ID game: Just like entering a club (but hopefully with less drama), you'll need to prove you are who you say you are. Driver's license, passport, you name it.
- Been there, divorced that? If either of you has been married before, you'll need some documentation proving that marriage is officially over and done with.
- Ready to rumble (with fees): There's a small fee for the license, but hey, think of it as an investment in your happily ever after.
Pro Tip: Some counties offer a discount on the marriage license fee if you complete a premarital education program. Not only could it save you some cash, but it might also help you avoid some future fights about who takes out the trash.
Step 2: The Officiant - Justice of the Peace, Elvis Impersonator, Your Best Friend's Hamster?
Now you need someone to officiate the ceremony. This is the person who will basically say, "I now pronounce you husband and wife," and make it all official. Here are your options:
Tip: Focus on clarity, not speed.
- The Classic Choice: The Justice of the Peace: They're reliable, affordable, and know all the legalese. Plus, there's something strangely romantic about getting married in a courthouse surrounded by stacks of paperwork.
- Themed Shenanigans: The Elvis Impersonator/Pirate Captain/Anyone Ordained Online: Want a wedding that'll be the talk of the town (or at least your neighborhood)? Get creative with your officiant! Just make sure they're legally ordained to do the deed.
- The BFF Option: In Georgia, some judges allow a friend to be ordained online for the sole purpose of marrying you. Just remember, if your best friend accidentally forgets the words and starts quoting Star Wars instead, that's a story for the grandkids.
Step 3: I Do, Now Let's Party!
Now comes the fun part: the actual ceremony! You can get married in a grand ballroom, a backyard barbecue, or even on a mountaintop (just make sure everyone has good hiking boots).
Here's the most important thing to remember: don't forget to say "I do!" Otherwise, this whole thing was a big waste of perfectly good cake.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
Step 4: Don't Be a Slacker, File the Paperwork
Once the ceremony is over and you're busy smooching your new spouse, don't forget to get your act together. The officiant will give you a marriage license to be signed and returned to the probate court within 30 days. Do this, or you might end up in rom-com territory where your marriage isn't actually legal. No one wants that kind of stress!
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And then...BAM! You're married! Congratulations, you crazy lovebirds! Now go forth and conquer the world (or at least tackle those dirty dishes together).
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
FAQ: Getting Hitched Georgia Style
How to get a marriage license in Georgia?
Head to your local county probate court with your ID, proof of age (if you're a minor applying for special permission), and any necessary divorce documentation.
How much does a marriage license cost in Georgia?
The fee varies slightly by county, but it's typically around $68.50. You can get a discount if you complete a premarital education program.
**Who can officiate a wedding in
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