With so much to do in life, and then plan a wedding on top of that, it’s a lot to handle! It can be easy to forget some of the crucial last minute details. I’m hoping this post will help you lessen the load of your overflowing plate.

1. Officiant – Although not always the case, according to many marketing studies, the essential, legalizing role of officiant is typically the last vendor chosen for a wedding. While perhaps not seemingly as important as an energetic DJ, skilled photographer, or beautifully decorated cake, the officiant, whether clergy, judge, or family friend, will help set the tone of your entire day. Do you envision someone somber and serious? Friendly and welcoming? Animated and humorous? Well spoken and professional? What is important to you? How do you want your guests addressed? What vibe do you want to present, and what type of personality do you enjoy interacting with. It is important that you feel comfortable and supported on your wedding day, and the days leading up to it while planning. Trust your gut. Will your person add a pleasant energy to your event? Could they possibly add more stress than support? If possible, have a live conversation, either over the phone or via Zoom to get to know them before. Even if you are having a small, intimate wedding and their involvement time doesn’t seem like extensive, your choice will make a difference. To you, and others involved.
2. Marriage License – Unless you are already legally married, and this wedding is a celebration with family and friends, you will need to purchase the necessary paperwork to become legally married. In Washington State there is a three day waiting period that needs to pass before your license can be completed and legalized. It is valid for up to 60 days, so don’t shy away from getting it early. That is one more thing to cross of your list while planning. If there is a chance the date may change, I suggest waiting until the date is fully confirmed so you can avoid missing the 60 day cut off and need to purchase a second license. Some marriage license offices are open to the public, which allows you to get your license in person. You both will need to be present, with valid IDs, and be prepared to pay the licensing fee that day. In some counties, such as King County, as of this writing, August 2, 2023, the office is closed to the public. The only option is to handle the process remotely. You can fill out the form online, and will be mailed the license through USPS mail. I have heard really good things from couples, as far as how offices are handling things. Their response time seems prompt. It is still best to plan ahead to make sure that you have what is needed in time. Please note that some states do not require a waiting period, and some states have licenses that are valid for longer than 60 days. While I am licensed to marry couples in most states, I am based in Washington, so much of my information is Washington focused.
3. Black Ball Point Pen – It may seem odd that a simple pen gets its own line item on this list, but it is very important! While some states may be open to a different color ink, in Washington State, it needs to be black when filling out the license. Because it is legal paperwork, and it would not be beneficial to smear the ink, I have specified that it be a ball point pen, in hopes of lessening that possibility. Your officiant will most likely come prepared with one, it’s always a good idea to have a back up, just in case. If you have a special pen, or want to get one for photos, that is something else to consider.
4. Witnesses – In Washington State two witnesses that are 18 years old, or older are required to validate the occurrence of the wedding by signing the marriage license. Generally, no ID is required before signing, although your officiant would have the personal and professional right to ask to see it for further validation. It can be anyone, including a complete stranger! They just need to be 18+ and willing to sign the legal document. Some states don’t require any witnesses. Again, the officiant may personally require to have witnesses to help further confirm the mutual agreement and legal union of the couple. Other states ask for just one witness. I suggest checking with your marriage license office to verify what is legally needed in your area.
5. Postage – If you are unable to bring the paperwork in in-person, you will need a stamp or postage affixed by the clerk at the post office. As of this writing, it is .60 cents for an ounce of mail.
6. You – Okay, so this list would not be complete without the most important thing. YOU! The two of you! A couple, two humans, that want to take this exciting, next life’s step together. While there may be more than two mutually sharing your intimate relationship, at this time in history, only two individuals are able to legally marry.

So, that is it! You may choose to have fancy attire, a large wedding party, friends and/or family there, a photographer, videographer, day of coordinator, wedding planner, florist, caterer, and other vendors at your chosen venue, but all you actually need to get married, are those five things. As mentioned, the most important is you, and should always be your priority, and in the #1 spot!

Congratulations! I wish you both the absolute best and joyous wedding day, new chapter of your lives, and exciting adventures ahead!