Couples planning a Hawaii civil wedding may feel uncertain about obtaining the right information. The processes and legal requirements differ between countries, and we have to stress that getting married in Hawaii is rather easy.
Most couples decide to get married in Hawaii for the intimate beach ceremonies or the grand celebrations by the coast. Whether you are getting married in a religious or civil ceremony, you need to ensure that it is legal. Collecting and submitting all the right documents will help facilitate the process and ensure you acquire the marriage license on time.
Therefore, here’s what you need to know before saying ‘I do’ in the Aloha State.
Civil Marriages in Hawaii
If you have decided on a civil marriage in Hawaii, here’s what you need to know. A civil marriage is a non-religious ceremony that is carried out and officiated by a judge, a licensed officiant, or any other state-authorized individual. If you are looking for a legally recognized but rather straightforward union that does not include religious affiliations, a civil ceremony is the right choice.
The reason couples opt for having a Hawaii civil wedding is that it allows them to focus on personalizing their experience. At the same time, it is very affordable and offers some flexibility.
The Legal Requirements
Once you are engaged and you start making plans for your Hawaii civil marriage, it’s time for you to familiarize yourself with the legal prerequisites. The first thing you need to know is that there are no residency requirements to get married in Hawaii. This means that couples from all over the world can get married here.
Age is a very important issue to consider. You must be of legal age to get married in Hawaii, meaning you must be 18 and over. Couples who are under the age of 18 must obtain parental or guardian consent and present a certified birth certificate.
If by chance you have been married previously, you must submit proof of original divorce decree. In case your previous partner is deceased, then you must present their death certificate to the marriage agent.
The most important thing for couples is to obtain their marriage license, allowing them to get married in Hawaii. It is obtained from an authorized agent, and the process involves submitting an online application for which you will need to pay a $65 fee. Once it’s issued, the marriage license is valid for the next 30 days. This means you can have your Hawaii civil wedding at any venue of your choice within the state.
The Perfect Location
You have certainly heard of Hawaii’s endless stunning venues for destination weddings. Here, we will briefly go over some of the most popular spots chosen by couples.
Waialae Beach is a beach on the south shore of Kahala, the first choice for many couples. The reason for this is the long stretch of sandy shoreline and the swaying coconut palms.
If you’re looking for that perfect Hawaiian scenery that most destination wedding photos have, you should be looking between Honolulu and Waikiki. We are talking about the Magic Island, which is close to Diamond Head. The protected swimming lagoon and the white sand beaches may be just what you are looking for.
If Oahu’s eastern coast is your choice, then you should look into Waimanalo Beach and Makapu’u Point. The first offers the longest stretch of sandy shoreline and crystal clear waters. It is well known for its offshore islands and gentle waves, while the tall ironwood trees create a serene and spacious environment for weddings. The second is a breathtaking location with a dramatic setting. It is a unique ceremony spot surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean on one side and the towering Ko’olau Mountain Range on the other.
The other stunning locations you should look into are Duke Kahanamoku Beach, the secluded Papailoa Beach, and the hidden gem of Kawela Bay.
Obtaining a Marriage License
Once you find that perfect spot where you wish to say your “I do,” it’s time to obtain that marriage license. You will want the whole process to go smoothly, so follow these steps.
Begin by completing an online application and paying the required fee. Once you do that, schedule an in-person meeting with an agent. Both applicants must appear together in person before an agent no more than 30 days prior to the ceremony to pick up the license. When you arrive at the meeting, have a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport or driver’s license) on you. If applicable, provide certified copies of divorce decrees or death certificates.
After you obtain your marriage license, the official ceremony must occur within 30 days. There is no waiting period before the ceremony can take place.
Officiants and Traditions
Your Hawaii civil marriage must be officiated by a licensed officiant. You can choose between a judge, minister, or any individual authorized by the state. Why is this important? Because it means the difference of whether your marriage will be legal or not.
Another thing you should think about is enriching your destination wedding with Hawaiian traditions. Just because a civil ceremony is non-religious, it doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate traditional elements to enhance the experience.
You can exchange leis as a symbol of each other’s love and respect. Set a spiritual and cultural tone by adding traditional Hawaiian chants or olives. Another thing you can do is celebrate Hawaiian artistry and use a hula performance to entertain your guests.
Conclusion
Why do couples opt for a Hawaii civil wedding? Because they are simple and elegant and happen in a stunning location. You can make your special day as intimate or as grand as you want to. Incorporating Hawaiian traditions and choosing secluded beaches will be all on you. However, ensure that the legal side of the matter is taken care of.
Ready to plan your dream wedding in paradise? Contact us today. Fill out our contact form to get started, or explore our Wedding Services and Locations to find the perfect fit for your big day. For more ideas and helpful tips, read through our blog!