What You Need To Legally Elope In Michigan

Planning an elopement is exciting! But it can also be overwhelming. Especially when it comes to the legalities and rules. Even finding the information online can be confusing.

This post outlines all the essential requirements for a legal elopement in Michigan. Everything you need to know to ensure your ceremony complies with state laws. Here’s a streamlined guide to help you navigate the essentials:

Michigan marriage requirements

Basic Requirements:

• Both partners must be over the age of 18 and not related by blood.
• The fee for a marriage license is $20 for Michigan residents and $30 for non-residents. 
• There are no residency requirements for marrying in Michigan, making it convenient for both residents and non-residents.
• Michigan Residents: Apply in person at the county clerk’s office where you reside. If both parties are Michigan residents, you may apply in either county.  The license is valid throughout the state.
• Non-Michigan Residents: Apply at the county clerk’s office in the county where the wedding will take place. Your license will be valid in that county only.

Waiting Period and Validity:

• There is a mandatory three-day waiting period after applying before the marriage license is issued.
• The license is valid for 33 days from the date it is issued. Michigan residents can use their license anywhere in the state, while non-residents must use it in the county where it was issued.

Officiant and Witnesses:

• An ordained officiant must conduct the ceremony. Officiants are not required to register with any government office in Michigan but must be able to provide proof of ordination if requested.
• Two witnesses at least 18 years old must be present to sign the marriage license.

Inclusivity: 

• Any couple regardless of sex, religion or other may be married legally in Michigan.

Local Regulations:

• Check if your chosen venue or location requires special permits, especially for ceremonies in state parks or historical sites. This is essential to avoid any last-minute surprises.

After the Ceremony:

• The officiant must fill in the marriage certificate with the official time and place of the marriage and sign with their credentials.
• The signed marriage license must be returned to the county clerk’s office where it was issued within 10 days of the ceremony.

Separating Your Legal Ties from Your Adventure Elopement

Picture this: You’re getting married to the love of your life  in an amazing spot in nature, fully immersed in the moment, without a single form or folder in sight. Sounds perfect, right? By taking care of the legal formalities before your elopement day, you can make this vision a reality.

Sign at a different time: Begin with a simple legal signing back home or at the county clerk’s office in Michigan. This low-key affair involves just the necessary witnesses and a few signatures. Consider this the official start to your adventure—celebrate it with a toast or a small gesture that feels right for you both.

Spiritual and Symbolic Ceremonies: Once the legalities are taken care of, your actual elopement day is free to be as creative, spiritual, or heartfelt as you wish. This is the time for a ceremony that truly reflects your values and emotions. Without the constraints of legal requirements, you can focus on crafting a powerful, symbolic union that resonates deeply with both of you. Whether it’s a quiet vow exchange by the lake or a heartfelt commitment under the expansive skies, your ceremony can be a profound expression of your love.

Less Stress, More Magic: Dividing the legal and celebratory aspects of your elopement reduces stress, allowing you to immerse fully in the emotional and spiritual significance of your ceremony. With the paperwork already settled, your mind is free to savor every moment of your special day. And it also makes having a “just us” ceremony possible!

Handling the legal elements in advance not only simplifies your elopement but also enriches the experience. You’ll step into your special day with all the formalities behind you, ready to celebrate your union in the stunning landscapes of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Ready to start planning? I’m here to help every step of the way—let’s make your elopement as magical as the bond you share.

Crafting Your Ceremony: Personalized Options for Your Perfect Day

Option 1: “Just Us” Ceremony Choosing a “just us” ceremony, where the legal paperwork is handled separately, allows for a deeply personal and intimate celebration. This type of ceremony focuses entirely on you and your partner, without any distractions or formalities. It’s perfect for couples who value privacy and want to immerse themselves in the emotional significance of their vows. This setting creates a space to connect profoundly with each other, making every moment and every word shared resonate with personal significance, all against the stunning backdrop of the Keweenaw.

Option 2: Have a Friend or Family Member Officiate Inviting a friend or family member to become ordained for your ceremony adds a deeply personal touch to your day. It’s relatively easy for someone to get ordained online, and this option can make your ceremony feel more intimate and special, as the person who knows you well leads you through your vows. This approach not only personalizes your ceremony but often adds a layer of comfort and emotional depth, as someone who truly understands your journey together officiates your union.

Option 3: Hiring a Professional Officiant For those who prefer a traditional touch, hiring a professional officiant is a great choice. Typically, the cost can range from $200 to $500, depending on the officiant’s experience and the complexity of the ceremony. Professional officiants can provide a beautifully crafted script that incorporates elements of your story and personal vows, ensuring everything flows smoothly. However, this option might feel less personal than others, and the presence of an additional person might affect the intimacy of a private elopement.

Option 4: Photographer as Officiant As a photographer who is also an ordained officiant, I offer a unique blend of services that simplifies your day. I’ll handle the legal paperwork for a portion of the ceremony, then step aside to capture the magic of your vows, the exchange of rings, and any other special moments you wish to incorporate. This option provides a seamless blend of legality and emotion, allowing you to enjoy the intimacy of your ceremony without worrying about logistics. It’s ideal for couples who want the authenticity of their emotions captured up close, as those genuine expressions unfold naturally.

Each of these options offers a different experience, tailored to what feels right for you on your elopement day.

Eloping is an exciting and special way for two people to exchange vows in Michigan. With all the legalities taken care of, you can be free to make your dream a reality! There are plenty of beautiful locations in the state to choose from, and virtually unlimited possibilities. So, now that you know what it takes to legally elope in Michigan, you are fully prepared to embark on this amazing journey with your partner!