how to get married in michigan

You've decided to get married in Michigan and would like to know where to start, how the heck to you get married in Michigan? 

First congrats on your decision to get married, it's such an exciting time. And I know it can be a bit overwhelming planning a wedding and knowing where to start. 

Let me break down the basics of how to get legally married in the state of Michigan. 

What you need to get married in Michigan: 

You need your marriage license, if you currently live in Michigan you will apply for your marriage license in the county that you reside in. Simply visit their website and apply for your marriage license and then go pick it up. If you live out of state you will apply with the county that you are getting married in. 

Things to note when applying for your marriage license in Michigan: 

• You will need specific documents, usually your picture ID, social security number/card and your birth certificate or passport. Each county works independently so check their website for their specifics. 
• The marriage license in Michigan is only valid for 30 days after you pick it up - be mindful of that expiration date, you must get married before it expires. 

You will need an ordained officiant or wedding minister - title is interchangeable. This is the person who will perform your ceremony and then sign your marriage license with you to say that it is legal. As a professional wedding minister myself I highly recommend hiring a pro and not uncle Phil - we're worth the money I promise. We can help guide you through the process of planning a wedding and making sure everything is done with and for you - no need to write the ceremony yourself or think of how to do the processional, we've got you!

Lastly you're going to need 2 witnesses each over 18 years old to sign the marriage license with you. This can be anyone, related or not. The only thing your witnesses legally need to be are over 18 years old and able to sign and print their name in English. 

And that folks is it, that its he requirements to get married in Michigan. Anything else you plan is the icing on the cake! The celebration of this monumental moment. 

Whether you plan to keep it simple or have the big big event knowing where to start and how to make it legal are very important. Getting legally married in the state of Michigan is quite simple once you know where to begin. 

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