Steps to Take After Receiving Your Marriage License

Learn important steps to take after receiving your marriage license with practical examples for a smooth wedding process.
By Taylor

Examples of Steps to Take After Receiving Your Marriage License

Getting your marriage license is an exciting milestone on your journey to tying the knot! Once you have your license, there are several important steps you should take to ensure your wedding day goes off without a hitch. Below are three diverse, practical examples to guide you on what to do next.

1. Schedule Your Ceremony

When you have your marriage license in hand, it’s time to solidify the details of your wedding ceremony. This includes booking your venue and confirming the date and time with your officiant. Think about whether you want a religious ceremony, a civil ceremony, or something more unique.

Once you’ve decided, reach out to your chosen officiant to discuss your plans. This is also the time to review any requirements they may have, such as premarital counseling sessions or specific vows you might want to include. It’s essential to ensure that everyone is on the same page to create a beautiful ceremony.

Example:

You’ve decided to have a beach wedding. After receiving your marriage license, you contact the local beach authority to reserve a spot. You also reach out to your officiant, who suggests you meet for a brief consultation to go over details and personalize your vows.

Notes:

  • Make sure to check if your venue requires additional permits.
  • Consider the weather and have a backup plan in case of rain.

2. Update Your Documents

After obtaining your marriage license, it’s crucial to start thinking about how your new marital status will affect your personal documents. This includes your Social Security card, driver’s license, and bank accounts, among others. Updating these documents ensures that your legal identity reflects your new status and can help avoid complications down the road.

Example:

You’ve just received your marriage license, and you want to change your last name. Start by visiting the Social Security Administration’s website to find out what documents you need for the name change. Typically, you’ll need your marriage license, a form of ID, and a completed application. After that, you can visit the DMV to update your driver’s license. Make a checklist of all the institutions that need to be notified of your name change, including your bank, employer, and insurance companies.

Notes:

  • Some states allow you to change your name on your driver’s license at the same time as filing for the marriage license.
  • Keep copies of your marriage license handy when updating documents.

3. Prepare for the Big Day

Once you’ve received your marriage license and scheduled your ceremony, it’s time to focus on the details of your wedding day. This includes finalizing your guest list, sending out invitations, and coordinating with vendors such as caterers and florists. This step can often feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into smaller tasks can ease the process.

Example:

With your marriage license secured, you decide to create a detailed timeline for your wedding day. Start by listing out your must-have items, like the cake, flowers, and photographer. Then, break these down into smaller tasks, such as picking up the cake the day before and assigning a friend to handle the flowers. Additionally, create a Google Doc to track RSVPs and any dietary restrictions your guests might have, ensuring that your catering team is well-informed.

Notes:

  • Consider using wedding planning apps to keep everything organized.
  • Don’t forget to plan for post-wedding tasks, like sending thank-you notes to guests.