Since 1931, Las Vegas has held the title of Wedding Capital of the World – and, for more than one reason! Getting hitched in Las Vegas is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, is extravagant, and above all, is spontaneous.
But getting married in the City of Lights can also be memorable and utterly romantic – when your elopement is well planned! Here you’ll find a quick-start guide to a stress-free but unforgettable ceremony in Las Vegas.
Make Sure That Eloping Is the Right Option for You
If you are planning to elope to Las Vegas, you are certainly not alone. Each day, over 150 couples choose the City of Sin to tie the knot on a whim.
And, beyond providing the opportunity for private or affordable ceremonies, Nevada’s wide range of venues and lenient marriage requirements make the state an ideal destination for career couples and those looking to bypass the stress of planning a full-scale wedding.
However, when choosing between an elopement and a traditional marriage ceremony, it is important to understand that you might be compromising on one or more aspects of your wedding. For example, getting married in Vegas is certainly convenient and affordable, but you might not be able to have all of your loved ones around you on your special day.
Be Aware of Legal Wedding Requirements
One of the factors that have contributed to making Las Vegas the world’s marriage capital is the minimum legal requirements you’ll need to meet to get married here.
Thanks to the laws introduced in the early 1930s, Nevada does not require couples to undergo blood tests or deal with long waiting times.
Nonetheless, if you are planning more than an informal vow renewal, you’ll need to tick a few boxes to ensure that your marriage is legal.
According to the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, you should:
- Ensure that both parties are unmarried and at least 18 years old
- Ensure that both parties can provide a recent photo ID
- Get married within 1 year of obtaining your marriage license
- Ensure that your ceremony is performed in Nevada by a state Officiant
- Have at least one extra witness beyond the Officiant
- Pay a license fee
If you have decided to get married in Las Vegas, start by applying for your marriage license online. You’ll then be able to collect it at the Clark County Marriage License Bureau, located on 201 E Clark Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89101. The office is open from 8 AM to midnight every day and, once you have your license, you can get married without delay.
You Can Just Walk In – But Consider Booking Your Venue in Advance
Whether you are looking to follow Sophie Turner and Joe Jonas’s footsteps and get married by an Elvis impersonator at A Little White Chapel, or you wish to say your “I Dos” in front of the stunning backdrop of the Valley of Fire, Las Vegas offers endless opportunities for the perfect wedding location.
And, one of the main pros of eloping to Nevada is that you can just walk into your chosen wedding venue and close the deal!
However, don’t forget that the competition can be fierce and, without proper planning, you might not find availability at your preferred location. Generally, if you are looking to get married at a private location or during peak wedding season, you should consider booking your slot in advance and getting the necessary permits.
Make the Event More Memorable With the Right Touches
Keeping your elopement wedding casual is a must. A comfortable wedding dress and an informal dress code can help you be ready for any Nevada-based adventure you have planned for after the ceremony – no matter whether you are looking to celebrate at a nearby casino or with a visit to the Red Rock Canyon.
However, there are other ways to make the event more memorable, including designing a personalized photo book, creating custom wedding favors, and planning a multi-day itinerary.
Consider Your Options for Wedding Rings
While planning your ceremony and venue are crucial steps for your Las Vegas wedding, let’s not forget about an equally important aspect – the wedding rings. If you’re on a budget or appreciate the history and charm behind a pre-used ring, you might be looking to buy a second-hand engagement ring. The unique character of such a piece can often make it more meaningful and personal, and buying pre-owned has the added benefit of often being more affordable than purchasing a brand-new ring. Explore trusted online platforms and vintage stores, or even consider family heirlooms when searching for that perfect symbol of your commitment.
Pick Your Photo Session Location Wisely
Las Vegas Valley is dotted with world-class, amazing wedding photo backdrops and locations. Consider visiting the area in advance to discover all the hidden gems that Nevada has to offer and make your wedding even more unforgettable!