Wednesday, April 21

Did You Know? Tidbits about making it official in Massachusetts

Did you know your father, aunt, friend or the guy down the street can pronounce you husband and wife? Your officiant does not need to be a member of the clergy or a justice of the peace. Each and every Massachusetts resident can officiate at one wedding per calendar year.  If you want to do this, your family member or friend will need to get a One Day Marriage Designation from the state. Check out the pretty simple process here.

Did you know marriage licenses are issued by cities or towns? Each town has different requirements (such as providing a birth certificate) and charges different fees.  Statewide, there is a three-day waiting period for a marriage license, you do not need to have a blood test, you must be over 18, and you do not need to have witnesses.

Did you know your marriage license is good for 60 days anywhere in the state? You do not have to get a marriage license from Chatham even if your wedding is in Chatham. The person performing your wedding will need to sign the license and mail it back to the town that issued it.

Did you know marriage between same-sex couples is legal in Massachusetts? We've been doing them since May of 2004.

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