Get Married in the Pocono Mountains!

One unique aspect of marrying in Pennsylvania is that it is one of the few states that permits self-uniting marriage ceremonies. In a self-uniting wedding (sometimes called a Quaker wedding), a couple can declare themselves married, or otherwise marry without an ordained officiant presiding over the ceremony. This opens the door for celebrants and even friends and family to guide couples through welcome messages, readings, reciting their vows, and pronouncing them married.

Just note: If you go this route for an elopement, you’ll need two people over the age of 18 to witness your ceremony and sign your marriage license.

A Pennsylvania marriage license becomes valid three business days after it is issued. After that, you have 60 days to formally get married. If you wait more than 60 days, you will have to reapply for a new license.

Both parties should be age 18 or over. Parental consent is required if either party is under 18.

Here’s our list of Pocono Mountains wedding spots.

Here’s Pocono Mountains celebrant Alicia Tong of Promise Ridge Weddings with an update on area wedding licenses, and a “Wedding Cermony Master Class” on Instagram

For scads of info, have a look at Pocono Weddings Planner.

In order to apply for a marriage license in the Poconos, you must bring the following items to the courthouse:

A valid government-issued ID (state driver’s license, passport, or military ID) Some counties may accept a birth certificate as I.D. Please call ahead and ask.

If you have been married before you will need a certified copy of your divorce decree with a Judge’s signature, or a Death certificate. This applies to ALL couples that have been previously married and the divorce must be more than 30 days previous.

A fee in cash or money order is required. In each Pocono County (Monroe, Pike, Wayne, and Carbon Counties) fees vary. Right now, in 2021, $50 is the maximum fee.

Pennsylvania Consolidated Statute Title 23 requires a 3-day waiting period upon applicants’ appearance in the Marriage License Bureau. The application must be handed in within 60 days of your wedding date.

Do YOU want to become a celebrant and officiate at your friend’s and family members’ wedidngs? Here’s Pocono Mountains celebrant Alicia Tong of Promise Ridge Weddings with an update on area wedding licenses, and a “Wedding Cermony Master Class” on Instagram.

Have a look at Alicia’s website, Wedding Ceremony Master Class.