When it comes to planning a wedding in Hawaii, it usually sounds like a months-long project filled with endless checklists and stressful decisions. But what if we told you that you could plan a beautiful, official Hawaii civil wedding in just under 30 days?
If you’re a last-minute planner or thinking about eloping in paradise soon, this guide is for you. Think of it this way. No fuss, no drawn-out prep. Just an easy, step-by-step timeline to get married in Hawaii.
Are you ready to have a Hawaii civil wedding without all the fuss? Here’s the 30-day countdown.
Days 1–5 to Nail Down the Basics
Before we get ahead of ourselves, first things first – get the marriage license. In Hawaii, there’s no waiting period after you get your license, so you can get married as soon as you pick it up. But you have to have your ceremony within 30 days after the license is issued, or it becomes void.
Fill out the online marriage license application on the Hawaii Department of Health website. You’ll get an authorization code to bring with you. Both of you need to appear in person at a department office or authorized agent to pick up your license. No proxies allowed.
Remember to bring:
- Valid government-issued photo IDs (passport, driver’s license, etc.)
- Certified divorce decree or death certificate if you’ve been married before, and it’s within 30 days
- Birth certificates if either party is under 18 (parental consent required)
In terms of fees, the license costs $65, which is non-refundable. This is why it’s important that you’re ready before applying.
If you’re visiting Hawaii from out of state or internationally, plan your visit early to stay on schedule! The license is only valid in Hawaii and for 30 days once issued.
Days 6–10 to Choose Your Officiant and Location
Now that you have your legal paperwork set, it’s time to find someone to make it official. For Hawaii civil weddings, this is usually a judge, justice of the peace, court commissioner, or other licensed officiant authorized by the state.
Hawaii has tons of beautiful locations for civil ceremonies. Popular locations include:
- Magic Island near Waikiki
- Foster Botanical Garden
- Plaza Courtyard close to the Department of Health office
- Keehi Lagoon
- Aiea Loop Wedding
If time is tight or you prefer a no-fuss approach, you can also book a simple courtroom marriage with an officiant in an office setting.
With the wedding date approaching fast, it’s best to book your officiant early. Many calendars fill up quickly, so secure your spot as soon as possible.
Days 11–15 to Confirm Details
It’s now time to organize your Hawaii civil ceremony and give it your stamp. Decide how formal or casual you want the occasion to be. Civil ceremonies tend to be shorter, anywhere between 15 and 20 minutes.
You can personalize the ceremony in so many ways, and you really don’t have to do much heavy planning. This is your moment to make a quiet, sincere ceremony feel warm. Here’s what you can do:
- Write your own vows or keep it traditional with the official script
- Add Hawaiian traditions like a lei exchange
- Choose meaningful music or a local ukulele player
- Bring small floral arrangements or a simple bouquet
- Decide if you want a few close friends as witnesses (Hawaii requires at least one witness)
Days 16–20 to Arrange Photography and Extras
Photography and extras are completely optional, so if this is not something you are after, you can skip it. However, even if you’re keeping things simple, capturing your special day is a smart move. Book a local photographer to ensure you don’t miss out on the few candid shots or maybe a full photo session.
In terms of extras and accessories, you may want tiny additions like:
- A bouquet of tropical flowers
- Light refreshments post-ceremony
- A quick beach picnic
- Hair and makeup touchups
It’s always recommended to start booking those services this week so you can relax on the big day.
Days 21–25 for Final Confirmations and Packing
The Hawaii civil wedding is just days away. You’re almost there, and there’s no need for last-minute scrambles if you keep things organized. It’s time to confirm all details:
- Confirm the ceremony date, time, and location with your officiant
- Double-check your marriage license and IDs are ready and valid
- Reconfirm any vendors, like photographers or florists
- Plan your travel and accommodations if needed
- Pack wedding day attire, and remember, Hawaii’s dress code is usually relaxed beachwear or simple elegance
Days 26–30 to Enjoy Your Hawaii Civil Wedding
And THE day is finally here! The best part about Hawaii civil ceremonies is that they are stress-free and intimate. After your ceremony, your officiant will file your marriage certificate with the state, and you’ll be officially married. You should consider celebrating with a quiet dinner or a stroll on the beach.
Quick Tips for Success:
- Use online resources for the marriage license application and research locations before you arrive in Hawaii to save yourself a lot of time.
- Be flexible with your ceremony timing because some spots are busier on weekends or holidays.
- If you’re nervous about last-minute planning, consider hiring a local planner who specializes in civil or elopement weddings.
- Always keep a copy of your marriage license and certificate handy.
- Remember, Hawaii allows marriages 7 days a week, so if you have a tight schedule, your ceremony can fit right in.
Conclusion
Because it’s hassle-free, legally sound, and lets you soak in the beauty of Hawaii without a giant production. It’s perfect for couples who want a quick but meaningful way to get married before jetting off on a honeymoon or returning home.
You don’t have to compromise love or legality just because you’re short on time. Hawaii civil weddings are designed to accommodate your dream, no matter how near the date.
Got your heart set on a Hawaii civil wedding but worried about the clock? Don’t wait! Fill out the contact page on our website or explore our Locations, Wedding Services, and Blog pages to find the perfect fit and start your easy, unforgettable wedding journey today.