How to Officiate a Wedding in Greensboro, North Carolina

Visit Greensboro North Carolina these days and you’ll quickly come across that “Upscale Americana” Aesthetic that’s sweeping the country. It’s one of those places that’s finally cashing in on what makes American cities such interesting and exciting places. You’ll find plenty of adventurously themed restaurants and bars, parks, and a young ambitious demographic that’s turning Greensboro into a destination. 
 
We’re probably talking about you and your friends, right?

So now you are either planning a wedding, or have been asked to perform a wedding. That’s awesome, congratulations!

On this page, we’ll run through the basics of getting ordained to legally perform weddings in Greensboro, walk you through the process of obtaining your marriage license, and finally, we’ll get you pointed in the right direction regarding venues, dates, and other important details.

Step 1: Get Ordained with the American Marriage Ministries 

The state of North Carolina states that these specific individuals may officiate a marriage within the state:
 
“...Every minister, officer, or any other person authorized to solemnize a marriage under the laws of this State.”

 
Once you are ordained by American Marriage Ministries, you are a minister, and that qualifies you to officiate weddings in North Carolina. We know there have been some issues with other churches, but after more than a decade, our ministers have performed thousands of successful weddings in the state, and there shouldn’t be any issues.

Step 2: Prepare for the Ceremony in Guilford County

Prepare for the wedding by doing your research, and working with the couple to create a wedding ceremony that reflects the sort of experience they want to create. We have a lot of free online training materials right here on the website.

If you really want to make sure you’re prepared for the ceremony, check out our highly accredited course, which will prepare you with all the necessary tools to perform a memorable and powerful wedding ceremony. 

Step 3: Officiate the Wedding and Complete the Marriage License

Once you have done the step above, it is time to officiate the wedding and complete the wedding license for the couple. You want to complete the ceremony according to the wishes of the couple. 

Once the license is completed and signed by you, the marriage is official and legal.

The marriage license needs to be applied for and obtained by the couple prior to the ceremony. Both spouses have to apply in person for the license at the office which is located at 201 South Eugene Street. 

It is important to have these documents on hand when you are applying for the license:

• Legal proof of identification 
• Social security number
• Birth certificate
• $60 cash or check

The Basics

Folks that want to get married in Greensboro may want to check the schedule of events prior to setting a date. You can then see which venues are being used, as well as which events are taking place during that date. Setting aside a weekend to just explore your options -- and the city itself -- is a great way to start out your planning. Seasonal markets, holiday festivals, and convention center meetings are always happening throughout the year.

If you are thinking about which venue to use, then you want to know what is readily available. Those that want a farm-like wedding on acres and a beautiful barn setting can check out The Barn on New River which provides a special charm. The Double Oaks Bed and Breakfast is a great little place that provides the perfect outdoor venue that ensures you enjoy your wedding day and the beautiful pictures that come to play.

Weather

Greensboro has beautiful weather almost all year long. It occasionally snows during the winter, but for the most part, the weather is mild. Many of the venues provide both indoor and outdoor spaces for guests, so regardless of the season, you’ll have options.

Transportation

There is a public transport service that runs through the city, as well as Uber or Lyft and there’s always rentals. Parking isn’t usually an issue, but if there’s an open bar, be sure to have options. Those bridal parties that want to use limo companies and services are easily able to find a number of them to use during their special day.