There are times when couples are looking to have a courthouse wedding rather than a traditional wedding ceremony. Some people just want to get married without have a ceremony or others need to get legal marriage paperwork done quick.
Only state-approved officiants can perform wedding ceremonies in Hawaii. This includes ordained religious officiants and state judges.
Step 1. Get a marriage license
Before a marriage ceremony can be held in Hawaii, the couple must first get a license. The process varies by state, but in Hawaii both partners must appear in person at the Hawaii Department of Health where they will meet with a “Marriage Agent” to complete the application and submit necessary documentation. This is where it becomes crucial for couples to choose a qualified officiant or marriage performer. A minister must be a registered performer in the state of Hawaii and should be listing in the State system when you apply online.
Applicants must provide proof of age and a valid form of ID, such as a passport or driver’s license. If either partner has been widowed or divorced within 30 days prior to applying, they must also provide a copy of the relevant documentation. Those under 18 must have the consent of their parents or legal guardian. Once the marriage license is obtained, it must be used within 30 days or it will expire.
Step 2. Hire an officiant
From pristine beaches to lush mountains and metropolitan skylines, Hawaii offers the perfect backdrop for your wedding or elopement. However, it is important to plan ahead to ensure that you have the right officiant and that you apply for a marriage license on time.
An officiant is a state-approved performer who can marry couples and handle their post-wedding paperwork. They can be either religious or non-religious, and they should be registered online with the Hawaii Department of Health. They should also be able to provide you with a License to Perform Marriages and/or Civil Unions ID number, which is required for the marriage license application.
Rev. James Chun is such an officiant who has performed thousands of ceremonies. His calm demeanor and welcoming presence will make your ceremony feel special. He specializes in a traditional ceremonies with a splash of Hawaiian culture and can incorporate your personal vows and other cultural traditions. He is available to perform ceremonies on all the Hawaiian islands.
Get legally married in a licensed officiant’s office.
If you choose to forego a ceremony or perhaps you just need to get legally married quick, and it can be as simple as having your marriage paperwork signed in an office. It can also be more affordable than a traditional wedding, since there is no need for a large guest list. However, there are a few things that you should know before getting married in a office.
You need to choose an officiant who is licensed to perform marriages and civil unions in Hawaii. This can be done by contacting the department of health or looking for an online officiant registration system. You can also find a licensed officiant at a local city hall or government office. Or just contact Rev. James Chun at Hawaii Wedding Studio.
The biggest mistake when planning a courthouse wedding is thinking it’s a spur-of-the-moment decision. While some couples elope on a whim, you still need to apply for a license and also contact Hawaii Wedding Studio make sure they’re able to perform your wedding that day.
Hire an official translator
Whether you’re getting married in Hawaii or another country, if English is not your first language, an official translator can help you communicate with officiant. These professionals understand the nuances of local language and culture, and can also provide written translations. You can find a translator using an online service like Upwork, which allows you to browse qualified proposals and interview candidates before hiring.
A courthouse wedding is a great option for couples who want to save money and still have a special day. However, it’s important to discuss your options with your partner and make sure you are both on board. It’s also a good idea to think about post-ceremony celebrations with family and friends.
A courthouse wedding is a nonreligious ceremony that’s performed by a licensed officiant. It’s often less expensive than a traditional wedding and requires less planning. Nevertheless, you should make sure to get a marriage license before the big day, as this will be required by the State of Hawaii.