So You're Tying the Knot in Milwaukee: From Cheese Curds to "I Do's"
Congratulations, lovebirds! You've decided to take the plunge and get married in the land of endless summerfests (okay, maybe not endless, but frequent) and the brewers' paradise, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. But before the cheese curds flow and the polka music starts, there's a little matter of getting hitched. Fear not, fianc�(e)s-to-be, for this guide will be your roadmap to wedded bliss in Brewtown.
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| How Do I Get Married In Milwaukee Wisconsin |
Round Up Your Requisites: Marriage License Mission
First things first, you'll need a marriage license. Think of it as your official permission to say "I do" and avoid any awkward situations with the officiant (unless, of course, that's your thing). Here's what you need to do:
- Summon the Captain (County Clerk, that is): Head to the Milwaukee County Clerk's Office. They're all about appointments these days, so be sure to schedule one beforehand (
https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/County-Clerk/Marriage-License - Prepare for Takeoff (Gather Your Documents): Don't forget your IDs, Social Security numbers (but don't worry, they won't steal your identity, just verify it), and birth certificates.
- The Seven-Day Wait (Not so bad, considering cheese curds): You can't just waltz in and get married on the spot. Wisconsin has a cool-off period of seven days after you apply. So plan accordingly!
Pro Tip: Feeling fancy? While you're at the County Clerk's Office, inquire about the possibility of a courthouse wedding. It's a quick and easy ceremony, perfect for an intimate affair. Just remember, courthouse chic is a whole different aesthetic than a fairytale castle.
Selecting Your Officiant: From Judges to Jedi Masters (Maybe Not)
Now you need someone to officiate the ceremony, the person who will basically say, "By the power vested in me by the state of Wisconsin...and possibly cheese curds, you are now husband and wife!" Here are your options:
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
- The Judicial Route: Judges and court commissioners can officiate weddings. Just remember, they might still be in robe mode, so don't be surprised if it feels a tad official.
- Religious Rites: If you have a favorite priest, pastor, or rabbi, they can certainly officiate your ceremony. Just make sure they're properly registered in the state.
- Getting Crafty (Officiant Edition): Wisconsin allows authorized civil celebrants to officiate weddings too. Basically, these are folks who get ordained specifically for the purpose of marrying people. So you could have your best friend, your quirky uncle, or even that guy who walks his pet ferret around the park (but maybe check with your partner on that last one).
Let's Get Hitched! The Ceremony and Beyond
Now for the fun part – the actual wedding! Milwaukee offers a plethora of venues, from historic mansions to funky art galleries. Here are some things to consider:
- Indoor or Outdoor? Lakefront ceremony with a cool breeze or a cozy indoor setting with cheese curds as appetizers? The choice is yours!
- Theme Time: Embrace the Milwaukee spirit with a brewery tour after the ceremony, or go all out with a classic elegance theme.
_Remember: After the ceremony, don't forget to return your signed marriage license to the County Clerk's Office within 30 days. They need to update their records and make it official (so you can finally file those joint tax returns).
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to Schedule a Marriage License Appointment in Milwaukee County?
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Head to the Milwaukee County Clerk's Office website and use their handy booking calendar (
How Long Does it Take to Get a Marriage License in Wisconsin?
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The application process takes about 20 minutes, but there's a mandatory seven-day waiting period after you apply.
Tip: Don’t just scroll to the end — the middle counts too.
How Much Does a Marriage License Cost in Milwaukee?
The fee varies slightly, but expect to pay around $100.
Can I Get Married the Same Day I Apply for a Marriage License?
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Nope, Wisconsin law requires the seven-day waiting period.
Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Milwaukee?
Judges, court commissioners, registered religious officials, and authorized civil celebrants can all officiate weddings in Wisconsin.
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