Want to get married without any external pressure? A no-witness marriage can be a great idea to keep your intimate marriage ceremony memorable and stress-free. Planning a no-witness marriage can be a simple, intimate, and deeply personal way to say “I do.” You can focus entirely on your commitment to each other without the pressure of guests, elaborate planning, or high costs. Whether for privacy, convenience, or freedom, here are practical steps to help you plan an easy no-witness marriage. Read on!

Figure Out If Your State Allows a No-Witness Marriage

Before anything else, check if your state even allows a no-witness marriage. Self-solemnization is legal in only a few U.S. states. If it’s not allowed where you live, travel to a state that permits it. Rules can be different depending on where you live. 

You can usually find this info on your local county clerk’s website. If that sounds boring, consider getting legal no witness marriage services that can walk you through all the steps, help you file the paperwork correctly, and ensure everything is recognized by law. Doing this step first saves you from any “oops” moments later. 

Get Your Marriage License Early

Obtaining a marriage license is a crucial step, as it’s like your golden ticket. You need it before any ceremony can happen, even a tiny one. Some places let you apply online, while others make you visit the courthouse in person. You can also visit your county clerk’s office or local registry office to apply for your marriage license.

You’ll need ID, maybe some paperwork, and possibly a small fee (varies by location). Make sure you know how long the license is valid for, as some expire after a few weeks. It’d be a bummer to plan your simple no-witness marriage only to find your license ran out. 

Pick a Peaceful Spot

Since you’re not inviting any guests, you are free to choose a peaceful spot that feels right, whether it is a pretty park, your living room, or a beach at sunrise. The best part of a no-witness marriage is that it’s all about what makes you happy, not what looks good on Instagram. 

You don’t have to worry about matching napkins or seating charts. Just you, your partner, and maybe the sound of the wind or waves. How peaceful it sounds, isn’t it? Some couples even hire an officiant who can handle everything online, so you can keep things completely private and stress-free. So why not have an officiant who also knows the rules to make things easier for you?

Keep the Paperwork Safe

After the ceremony and exchanging vows, you’ll need to file your signed marriage license with the right office. This is the step that turns your vows into a legal reality. Once it’s filed, you’ll get your official marriage certificate, which you’ll need for name changes, taxes, and all that fun adult stuff. 

Keep legal copies in a safe place, like a folder. Remember, just because your wedding was simple doesn’t mean it can’t be special. You can still celebrate with cake or however you want. The whole point of a no-witness marriage is to make it about your love and not the crowd.