If you're planning your wedding and wondering how to get married in Mississippi, this guide will walk you through every essential step. Known for its southern charm, hospitality, and scenic landscapes from rolling countryside to historic river towns Mississippi is a romantic and meaningful place to tie the knot. Whether you're considering a quiet courthouse ceremony or a grand event in a plantation venue, understanding the legal requirements and the various ways to get married in Mississippi is key to a smooth and memorable celebration. With a blend of tradition and simplicity, getting married in Mississippi is accessible and special for both residents and out-of-state couples. Let's explore everything you need to know before saying "I do" in the Magnolia State.
Legal Requirements to Get Married in Mississippi
Before exploring the many options for your ceremony, it's important to understand the legal framework that governs getting married in Mississippi. Here's a breakdown of all the core requirements:
1. Marriage License Application - To legally marry in Mississippi, couples must apply for a marriage license at any county circuit clerk's office. Unlike many states, Mississippi does not require a waiting period for adults, meaning you can apply for and receive your license on the same day. The application must be made in person by both parties and includes filling out personal information such as full legal names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and parental names.
2. Age Requirements - Both parties must be at least 21 years old to marry without parental consent. If you're under 21, both parents or legal guardians must sign a consent form. Mississippi is stricter than many states: individuals under 17 (female) and 19 (male) generally cannot marry, and exceptions are rare. Be sure to contact your local clerk for specific guidance if either applicant is a minor.
3. No Waiting Period for Adults - Mississippi is one of the few states that does not require a waiting period for applicants aged 21 or older. Once your application is approved and the fee is paid, the license is issued immediately and can be used right away.
4. No Residency Requirement - You do not need to be a Mississippi resident to get married in the state. This makes it a great option for destination weddings, especially for couples looking for a Southern-style celebration.
5. No Blood Test Required - Mississippi no longer requires a blood test or physical exam, which makes the process even more straightforward.
6. Cost of Marriage License - The cost of a marriage license in Mississippi varies by county but typically ranges between \$20 and \$40, payable by cash or card depending on the clerk’s office. Some counties may offer pre-application forms online to speed up the process.
7. Validity of License - Once issued, a Mississippi marriage license is valid immediately and does not expire, which is quite rare among U.S. states. However, it must be used within Mississippi and cannot be transferred to another state.
All Ways to Get Married in Mississippi
There are several ways to get married in Mississippi, each offering unique experiences depending on your style, preferences, and budget. Below is a breakdown of all the legal and popular options available:
1. Civil Ceremony at the Courthouse
A courthouse wedding is one of the simplest and most efficient ways to get married in Mississippi. After obtaining your marriage license, you can schedule a civil ceremony with a justice of the peace or circuit court judge. These ceremonies are typically short, formal, and very affordable. Many couples choose this route for its low cost, ease of planning, and legal convenience, especially when a larger celebration is planned later.
2. Religious Ceremony
Mississippi is home to thousands of churches and religious organizations. If you're planning a faith-based wedding, you can be married by an ordained clergy member of any denomination. The officiant must be recognized by their religious institution and authorized to perform marriages in the state. Religious ceremonies in Mississippi often include traditional vows, spiritual blessings, and rituals specific to your belief system, making them deeply meaningful.
3. Ceremony by an Ordained Minister or Friend
Mississippi allows any ordained person to perform marriages, including those who have received online ordination. This makes it possible for a friend or family member to officiate your wedding, provided they are legally ordained and follow the required procedures. This route adds a personal touch to your ceremony and can be performed at any location indoors, outdoors, or even at your home.
4. Outdoor and Destination Weddings
Mississippi’s natural beauty, historical plantations, and riverside locations make it ideal for outdoor and destination weddings. Whether you envision your ceremony beneath centuries-old oak trees, by the banks of the Mississippi River, or at a picturesque antebellum estate, the state offers plenty of stunning venues. If you marry in a public space such as a park, be sure to check for permits or regulations well in advance. As long as you have a valid license and a recognized officiant, your wedding can legally take place anywhere in the state.
5. Private Elopements
For couples who want an intimate experience, eloping in Mississippi is both legal and easy. Because there's no waiting period and the license is valid immediately, you can obtain your license and elope the same day. Many couples choose romantic bed and breakfasts, scenic overlooks, or even courthouse steps for quick and private ceremonies. Officiants who specialize in elopements often offer small packages that include a brief ceremony and official documentation.
6. Same-Sex Marriages
Following the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, same-sex marriages are fully legal in Mississippi. All marriage rights, applications, and processes apply equally to same-sex and opposite-sex couples. While certain counties or vendors may have cultural differences, there are many inclusive professionals across the state who proudly serve LGBTQ+ couples.
Things to Consider When Deciding to Get Married in Mississippi
When planning your wedding in Mississippi, consider these key points to ensure a successful and legally sound experience:
1. Cultural and Religious Expectations:
Mississippi is part of the Deep South and has a strong cultural emphasis on tradition, family values, and religious practices. When choosing venues or officiants especially for non-traditional or same-sex weddings ensure they align with your values and expectations. Some rural counties may be more conservative, while urban areas like Jackson or Oxford may offer more diverse and inclusive services.
2. Weather and Seasonal Planning:
Mississippi has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Outdoor weddings are most popular in spring and fall, when the temperatures are comfortable and the scenery is vibrant. Summer weddings can be beautiful but may require shade, air-conditioned spaces, and contingency plans for rain or storms. Always consider weather patterns and have a backup plan if you're marrying outdoors.
3. Officiant Legality and Documentation:
Not all officiants automatically qualify to perform legal marriages in Mississippi. Ensure your officiant is properly ordained and legally authorized. After the ceremony, the officiant must fill out and sign the marriage license and return it to the issuing clerk's office. If this step is missed or delayed, your marriage may not be officially recorded.
4. Marriage License Location and Rules:
You must apply in the county where at least one applicant resides, or where the marriage will take place if you're both from out of state. Each county may have slightly different processes, hours of operation, or required documents, so always call ahead or check their website before going. Some may allow online applications that speed up the in-person visit.
5. Certified Copies and Legal Use:
After your license is filed post-ceremony, you must request certified copies of your marriage certificate for legal purposes. This is essential if you're changing your name, updating insurance, adjusting tax information, or dealing with legal contracts. Each certified copy costs between \$5 and \$10, and many couples order multiple copies at once to avoid delays later.
6. Legal and Financial Impact:
Marriage is a legal contract, so it's wise to consider its financial and legal implications. Shared property, debt liability, taxes, and insurance may be affected. Couples with significant assets or prior obligations may want to create prenuptial agreements or consult an attorney or financial planner. Mississippi follows equitable distribution laws, meaning property is divided fairly (not necessarily equally) in case of divorce.
In Summary
Understanding how to get married in Mississippi is an important first step in your wedding journey. With its accessible marriage license process, beautiful settings, and a variety of ceremony styles, Mississippi offers both ease and elegance for couples ready to commit. Whether you're envisioning a quiet courthouse wedding, a spiritual ceremony at a historic church, or a lavish celebration under moss-covered trees, there are countless ways to get married in Mississippi to suit every taste and tradition. With no waiting period, low costs, and open eligibility for residents and non-residents alike, getting married in Mississippi can be both quick and deeply meaningful. As you plan your special day, keeping legal, cultural, and personal considerations in mind will help ensure your marriage begins on a joyful and legally sound foundation.
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