So You Wanna Tie the Knot in Jax? A (Mostly) Painless Guide to Getting Married in Jacksonville, FL
Congratulations! You've found your lobster (or soulmate, whatever floats your boat). Now you want to make it official in the sunshine state, specifically the awesome Jacksonville. But before you get swept away by daydreams of beach weddings and gator-themed centerpieces (hey, no judgement!), let's break down the not-so-scary legalities of getting hitched in Jax.
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| How To Get Married In Jacksonville Fl |
Round Up Your Posse: Applying for the Marriage License
First things first, you and your partner-in-crime (soon to be spouse!) need to head down to the Duval County Clerk of Court's office. Don't worry, it's not as intimidating as it sounds. Think of it as your first official adventure as a married couple...kind of.
Here's what you'll need to bring:
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
- Valid ID: Driver's license, state ID, passport - you get the drift.
- Social Security Numbers: Don't worry, they won't steal your identity, just use it for paperwork. Pinky promise.
- Proof You're Not Already Married (Unless You Are): If either of you has been down the aisle before, be prepared to show when that chapter closed.
- Sense of Humor: Because let's be honest, government offices can be a drag.
Bonus Tip: Feeling swamped with pre-wedding jitters? Save some money by taking a pre-marital course together. Not only will it knock down the license fee, but you might even learn a thing or two about communication (wink wink).
The Ceremony: From Courthouse Steps to Beach Bliss
Now for the fun part - the actual ceremony! Jacksonville offers a variety of options to suit your fancy:
Tip: Use this post as a starting point for exploration.
- Classic Courthouse I Do's: A quick and efficient ceremony performed by a deputy clerk. Perfect for those who want a low-key affair or are eloping on a budget (minus the running away part).
- Rent a Judge (Fancier Than It Sounds): For a more personalized touch, hire a judge to officiate your ceremony. They can come to your chosen location, be it a park, a rooftop, or even your bestie's backyard.
- Ordained Officiant Extravaganza: Have a friend or family member who's been itching to wear those fancy robes? If they're ordained to perform weddings, let them shine!
Remember: No matter where you get hitched, you'll need to find an officiant to make it official.
Jacksonville Venues: From Budget-Friendly to Beachy Keen
Jacksonville's got a venue for every kind of love story:
QuickTip: Pay attention to first and last sentences.
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- For the Beach Bums: Say "I do" with the sand between your toes and the sound of crashing waves as your soundtrack. Just remember to factor in tide times - nobody wants soggy vows!
- The History Buff's Dream: Get married in a charming historic mansion or a romantic old courthouse. Bonus points for incorporating some local history into your ceremony.
- The Offbeat Option: How about a brewery wedding with craft beer centerpieces? Or maybe a quirky art gallery? Jacksonville offers plenty of unique venues to express your personalities.
Pro Tip: Book your venue well in advance, especially during peak wedding season (spring and fall).
FAQ: Getting Hitched in Jax - The Short and Sweet
How to apply for a marriage license in Jacksonville? Head to the Duval County Clerk of Court's office with your ID, Social Security numbers, and proof of your relationship status (if applicable).
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
How much does a marriage license cost in Jacksonville? The base fee is $93.50, but you can save money by taking a pre-marital course.
How long does a marriage license last in Florida? You have 60 days to get married after obtaining your license. Don't wait too long, or you'll have to start the process all over again!
Do I need a witness to get married in Florida? Yes, you'll need two witnesses to sign your marriage license.
Can I get married on the beach in Jacksonville? Absolutely! Just be sure to check with the local authorities for any permits or restrictions that might apply.
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