American Weddings Blog

“Hi AMM! I know I can perform marriage in any state for others, but can I perform my own ceremony?”

The quick answer is this: It might be possible to perform your own marriage, but it is not a common practice, and is generally not permitted.

Whether or not you can perform your own marriage ceremony depends entirely on the regulations in the state where you are getting married.

At present, these are the only states that offer self-uniting (also known as self-solemnizing) marriage licenses: 

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Lawmakers in New Jersey have proposed an amendment regarding marriage by proxy. But don’t worry – this revision will be a good one!

Legislation sponsored by Assemblyman Ronald Dancer includes an update to current New Jersey marriage law, which could soon "authorize persons serving overseas in military to be married or enter into civil union by video conference or other electronic means.”

What does this mean, exactly?

First of all, this general scenario – when one or more persons getting married is not present – is called a marriage by proxy....(continued)

Despite the many trends that come and go, destination weddings will always appeal to couples planning their nuptials. It might have been half a century since Hawaii Weddings first became popular, but many couples still fantasize about having their wedding take place on a tropical beach somewhere far away, toes in the sand, with a balmy breeze carrying their vows to one another above the sound of gentle, rolling waves… with, of course, their friend or family member standing before them officiating their perfect ceremony.

Unfortunately, it’s a bit more complicated than that.  After just a bit of research, couples realize how difficult it is to find information on getting married in certain places outside of the United States - let alone the legalities regarding their marriage license and making sure their union is recognized after the fact.
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