So You Wanna Tie the Knot at the Denver Courthouse? Let's Ditch the Frills and Get Hitched!
Congratulations, lovebirds! You've decided to take the plunge and get married. But forget the white horse and carriage, ditch the months of planning, and say "hasta la vista" to sky-high venue costs. You're going rogue, courthouse style!
Now, getting married at the Denver Courthouse isn't exactly Vegas with Elvis (although, that is a story for another time). But, it's a quick, easy, and surprisingly stress-free way to make it official. Here's how to navigate the courthouse bureaucracy and emerge blinking into married life:
How To Get Married At Denver Courthouse |
Round Up Your Posse (but Maybe Not the Whole Bachelorette Party)
While there's no minimum number of witnesses, it is nice to have a cheerleader or two present for your big moment. Just be sure your chosen witnesses are 18 or older, have a valid ID, and are sober enough to remember witnessing something as momentous as your lifelong commitment (no pressure!).
Pro-tip: While your best friend from college who loves tequila shots might be a blast at a bachelorette party, the courthouse might not be the best place for their "enthusiasm."
The Most Important Piece of Paper (Besides That Love Letter You Wrote) - The Marriage License
This is where things get official. Head to the Denver Clerk and Recorder's website to snag an appointment. Important Note: Appointments can fill up fast, so don't wait until the week before your desired date!
Tip: Read once for gist, twice for details.
Here's the fun part (well, maybe not fun, but necessary) - you'll need to provide some basic info like your social security numbers and parents' names. There's also a nominal fee, but hey, compared to the cost of a traditional wedding, it's practically pocket change.
Bonus Round: No Blood Test Required! Unlike some states (looking at you, Florida), Colorado thankfully skips the whole blood test thing.
Who Says "I Do?" You Do! (Literally)
One of the coolest things about getting married at the courthouse is that Colorado allows for self-solemnization. This means you don't need a fancy officiant (although, if you have a friend or family member who's ordained online, more power to you!). You and your partner can simply say your vows and sign the marriage certificate - poof, you're married!
Feeling Shy? A judge or magistrate is also available to officiate your ceremony for a small fee.
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
I Now Pronounce You... Done! But Not Quite...
Congratulations, you just got married! However, your job isn't quite over yet. Don't forget to return your completed marriage license to the Clerk and Recorder's office within 63 days of the ceremony. Otherwise, be prepared for some late fees (romance ain't cheap, even at the courthouse!).
Now Go Forth and Celebrate (But Maybe Not Too Hard at the Reception Hall... Your Budget Might Still Be Recovering)
There you have it, folks! Getting married at the Denver Courthouse is a breeze. Now you can focus on the important things, like celebrating your newfound marital status (and maybe taking that honeymoon you always dreamed of).
FAQ: Courthouse Marriage Edition
How to schedule an appointment for a marriage license?
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
Head to the Denver Clerk and Recorder's website and snag an appointment online.
How much does a marriage license cost?
The fee is nominal, but it's always best to check the latest price on the website.
Do I need a blood test to get married in Colorado?
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
Nope! Colorado is one of the few states that doesn't require a blood test before marriage.
Can I have a friend or family member officiate my courthouse wedding?
Absolutely! As long as they're ordained online (it's easier than you think!), they can perform the ceremony.
What if I'm shy about saying vows in front of strangers?
No worries! A judge or magistrate is available to officiate your ceremony for a small fee.