WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR MARRIAGE LICENSE?

Who Returns the Marriage License After a Florida Wedding?

You've said your vows, exchanged rings and officially said, “I do.”

But what happens to the marriage license?

It's a question couples often don't think about until they're preparing for their ceremony.

When Rings, Bells and Bliss performs your wedding ceremony, I complete the appropriate officiant portion and return the completed marriage license to the Clerk of Court for recording, usually within two business days after your ceremony.

It's one less task for you to worry about after your wedding.

Why does the marriage license need to be returned?

The marriage license is an important part of making the marriage official.

Florida law requires the person solemnizing the marriage to complete the appropriate certificate and transmit it to the office that issued it within the required timeframe.

As your wedding officiant, handling my portion of that process is part of my responsibility.

Where does the marriage license go?

The completed license goes back to the office that issued it for recording.

For example, if you obtained your license through the Pinellas County Clerk, the completed license is returned to that Clerk for recording.

This is true even if your ceremony itself takes place somewhere else in Florida.

What should we do before our ceremony?

Bring your valid marriage license with you and make sure you haven't forgotten it in the excitement of getting ready!

It's also important to look at the dates on your license before the wedding.

If you're unsure about the license's requirements or validity, contact the Clerk that issued it. Your wedding officiant cannot provide legal advice or determine which legal documents you need.

What else does an officiant do?

The paperwork matters, but your ceremony should be more than paperwork.

At Rings, Bells and Bliss, I work with couples to create the ceremony of their dreams.

That can include assistance with the ceremony itself as well as help writing vows.

Before booking, we'll have a brief 5–10 minute phone conversation so I can learn more about your wedding and we can make sure we're a good fit.

Once your signed contract and full payment are received, your wedding date is secured.

What if we're getting married soon?

Same-day ceremonies may be possible when my schedule allows.

So even if your wedding plans have come together quickly, don't assume it's too late to find an officiant.

Call or text and I'll let you know about availability.

Rings, Bells and Bliss serves couples throughout St. Petersburg, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, Tierra Verde, Pass-a-Grille, Clearwater and other communities throughout the listed service area.

Call or text Adrienne at 813-334-9700 to discuss your wedding.