How to Officiate a Wedding in Sterling Heights, Michigan

If the glamour of getting married in a big city like Detroit catches your eye, but you are hesitant to deal with the hullabaloo that comes with getting hitched in the urban sprawl, then look no further than Sterling Heights. Known as Detroit’s little sibling - Sterling Heights has all that Detroit offers, but with a little more cozyness. Located just 25 miles away, this little suburb is quiet, clean, and beautiful.

Whether you are asked to officiate a wedding by the soon-to-be newlyweds or you are the happy couple looking to create a stress-free wedding, we have all you need in this guide. We will walk you through all the steps necessary to register your wedding and get the proper documents for your officiant. As you work through everything, make sure to check out all that Sterling Heights has to offer: from dancing at the Sterlingfest Art and Music Fair to slippin’ and slidin’ at the nearby Red Oaks Waterpark. But first, let’s get the legal to-do’s out of the way.

Step 1: Get Ordained with American Marriage Ministries

The first step is quick and easy - the ordination process. If you have been asked to officiate a wedding, congratulations. This is a big honor, so make sure to start by giving yourself a pat on the back.

Michigan marriage law states that ministers and certain government officials/judges are able to solemnize marriages. When you are ordained through AMM, you meet the legal criteria to qualify as a minister able to perform those duties and are able to do so anywhere in the state.

The process is free, simple, and just takes a moment! We are the only IRS Certified 501c3 Non-Profit that offers free online ordination.

Once you get ordained with AMM, you’re ready to hitch that couple! There are no government offices where you need to file documents, so you can move on to the other preparation steps right away.

Step 2: Prepare for the Ceremony in Macomb County

Once you are ordained, it is time to get excited and get ready for the ceremony. We know that it can be a little stressful if it is your first time officiating, so we are here to help. Check out our wedding training pages. We want the process to be as smooth as possible for the officiant, so we will walk you along each part of the process.

You will find everything you need to know here, whether you are a seasoned professional or a first-timer. Take a look at our sample ceremony scripts and brainstorming ideas, to preparation tips, and more.

Step 3: Officiate the Wedding and Complete the Marriage License

The last responsibility of the officiant is to perform the ceremony and fill out the marriage license on the big day. While it is up to the couple to complete the marriage license application and obtain it, it is your job to double check that they bring it with them on the day of the wedding and to make sure it is valid.

For it to be valid, you must wait 3 days after it is issued, it must be used within 33 days of being issued, all of the names and dates must be correct, and you sign the document as the officiant. You will also need two witnesses to be present and sign the document.

Your job is done! Just remind the couple to return the license to the Macomb County Clerk’s Office. And one more thing… Don’t forget to have a good time dancing at the end!

Now let’s look at the couple’s responsibilities.

First, complete the online marriage license application which can be found here. Then make an appointment with the County Clerk's Office by clicking here.

When you are applying, remember to have:

1. License Fee of $20 for residents ($30 for non-residents).
2. Valid driver's license or State ID showing current address.
3. Birth certificates for both parties.
4. The social security number of both parties.

After that, you are done! Your license will be able to be used 3 days after being issued and is good anywhere in the state. Just return the completed and signed license within 33 days of the completion of your ceremony.

The Basics

Sterling Heights has a lot of bang for your buck. It is a quick drive over to Detroit, making it a safe and clean alternative to the big city but keeping all the fun stuff at your fingertips. We recommend heading to Detroit and taking a free walking tour and then checking out the Detroit Institute of Arts. When it’s time to ride over to Sterling Heights, grab a bite to eat at Ike’s restaurant, one of the best places in the city.

But, we know that what you are really looking for is the best-of-the-best wedding spots, so here are the two we like most:

Penna’s of Sterling - This family-owned business brings a traditional taste of Italian heritage. Owning both Penna’s of Sterling and Villa Penna, this family has been in business for over 40 years. You will taste authentic Italian cuisine made from old-family recipes, and can rent one of their many regal ballrooms. Penna’s is sure to treat you right and give you the memory of a lifetime.

Vintage House - Another venue with over 50 years of experience, Vintage House is able to give up to 400 guests the time of their life. They have a 5000 square-foot garden and offer full service catering. This is a great choice for the cold Michigan winters, but also you can rock out on their patio bar and grill in the summer. You can’t go wrong.

Transportation

Sterling Heights is easily drivable and has minimal traffic. You should be able to hop back and forth between Detroit easily, and it won’t take more than a few minutes to get to where you need to go. There is a bus system with routes online, but ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are easily accessible as well.

Weather

You will experience all four seasons in Sterling Heights, but winter-time can be harsh. Storms, snow, and thunder can all be expected in the winter, so you will need to be sure you have indoor accessibility at your wedding. You want to be prepared for all types of weather. Michigan summers are temperate and wonderful, but you want to book early as this is the busy season.