How to Get Legally Married in Vermont and Plan Your VT Wedding

Vermont may be one of the smallest U.S. states, but don't let that rule out VT as the destination for your wedding ceremony and reception. Located in New England and bordering Massachusetts, New Hampshire and New York, Vermont is home to the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, Killington Peak and beautiful cities and towns including its capital: Montpelier. The state of Vermont is recognized for its production of dairy, as well as Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream. Residents and tourists alike relish in the state's natural beauty, enjoying various outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking and camping. Vermont is also known for being a progressive state and was the first US state to recognize civil unions for same-sex couples.

The application for a Vermont marriage license consists of quite a few steps, as does the process for changing your name. Read on to learn what is required to acquire a marriage certificate and be one step closer to saying "I do" along Lake Champlain or at a ski lodge.

How to Get Married in Vermont

You may want to glide fast down the (marital) slope, but before you step into your ski boots, take time to familiarize yourself with the following legal requirements for a Vermont marriage license.

Is there a waiting period to get married in Vermont?

There is no waiting period for a marriage license in Vermont. After your marriage certificate has been processed and approved, it will be valid for 60 days.

What are the legal requirements to get married in Vermont?

Any two individuals who are at least 18 years of age can be married in the state of Vermont. If the applicants are between 16 and 18 years of age, they will need to have their parent or legal guardian give consent and sign an affidavit.

If you or your S.O. was in a previous marriage, you can enter a new marriage anytime after the date on which the divorce or civil union was legally dissolved. If you are currently in a civil union with your partner, you can marry each other.

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Witnesses are not required to be present in order to obtain a Vermont marriage license. Additionally, Vermont residency is not required. If neither you nor your S.O. is a resident, you can get your certificate from any Town Clerk's Office. However, if one or both of you are Vermont residents, you will need to go to the Town Clerk in the city where one of you resides.

Who can marry you in the state of Vermont?

The following officiants can solemnize your wedding ceremony:

• A Supreme Court justice
• A superior court judge
• A(n) district or assistant judge
• A judge of probate
• A justice of the peace
• An ordained or licensed clergy member who resides in Vermont
• Any person over 18 years of age who has registered with the Secretary of State, completed the registration form and paid the $100 fee can become a temporary officiant.

What's considered a common law marriage in Vermont?

A common law marriage is a recognized union between two individuals who do not have a marriage license. The state of Vermont does not recognize common law marriages. Vermont also does not allow proxy marriages.

Vermont Marriage License 101

In addition to the above legal requirements, there are certain items you will want to have on hand when you visit the Town Clerk's office.

What do you need to get a marriage license in Vermont?

The following documents are required to obtain a Vermont marriage license:

• A certified copy of your birth certificates
• Both parents' places of birth
• Mother's maiden name
• Proof of identity (i.e. a valid driver's license, state-issued ID card, military ID, passport (card), permanent resident card or foreign government-issued passport)

No blood test is required in the state of Vermont.

What does a Vermont marriage license cost?

A Vermont marriage license costs $60.

How long does it take to get a marriage license in Vermont?

Once you arrive at your city Town Clerk's Office, it will only take about 20 minutes to complete and issue your marriage license. Since there is no waiting period, you and your S.O. can be immediately after the issuance.

Can you apply for a marriage license online in Vermont?

You can download and print the application online, but both parties must present to sign the form at the Town Clerk's office.

How do you get a copy of your Vermont marriage license?

In order to obtain a copy of your marriage license, you will need to place a request through the Vital Records Request Service found here. You will have to complete the VSARA-09 form and pay a $10 fee per copy.

How to Plan a Vermont Wedding

You can breathe a sigh of relief because you've finally completed the marriage license application! Now you can focus your energy on choosing the perfect venue and vendors for your dream VT wedding.

The Different Cities and Areas to Consider for a Vermont Wedding

Nicknamed the Green Mountain State, the state of Vermont has over 200 mountains including Mount Mansfield, the tallest mountain in VT. If you are hoping for an outdoor wedding along a mountainside, Vermont is certainly the state for you; however, the Connecticut River and Lake Champlain make a waterside wedding reception equally possible. Outdoor venues are popular in this state, but if you would prefer an indoor ceremony and reception, there are also many bustling cities known for their beauty, delicious food and museums. If this is more your vibe, Burlington, Montpelier and Shelburne are ideal cities for a fall or spring wedding, while Woodstock and Stowe are picturesque destinations for a winter wedding.

What to Look For in a Vermont Wedding Venue

Similar to its wide variety of regions and cities, Vermont wedding venues also range from quaint New England inns with outstanding views, luxurious ski resorts near the slopes, local farms to historic mansions. There is a lot to consider, but The Knot's Marketplace will make toggling through possible venues less overwhelming.

How to Find Vermont Wedding Vendors

After you have chosen your dream venue, it is time to secure Vermont vendors for your wedding reception. The state of Vermont is all about local farming and fresh produce. Needless to say, your guests will be satisfied by the end of the reception whether you serve charcuterie with local cheeses or something sweet involving Vermont maple syrup.

When it comes to decor and entertainment, consider decorating your venue in a rustic or cottage core theme, both popular options whether you are lodged between trails or are saying "I do" at a lodge itself. Hiring a live band or ensemble to play at your wedding ceremony and reception will make the night even more magical as your guests dance the night away.

The Best Times of Year to Have a Vermont Wedding for Good Weather

Similar to other New England states, Vermont experiences diverse weather patterns from warm and humid summers to freezing cold winters. The warm season lasts from May to mid-September while the cold season goes from December to mid-March. Cloudy days are common in VT, as well as rain and snow. Most tourists visit Vermont during the summer months or early fall to experience the beautiful foliage. On the flip side, if you and your S.O. are snow bunnies, then saving a date during the winter months is the way to go.