How to Officiate a Wedding in Salt Lake City, Utah

So, you’re planning to tie the knot in Utah’s biggest city, Salt Lake! Situated near the central Rockies, the Wasatch Mountains and a handful of gorgeous national parks, this state has everything from desert to snowfall. You’ll have a blast trying to decide between a cabin wedding in a winter wonderland or a ranch-style affair in cowboy boots. 

But first, saddle up for the technical to-do’s that need your attention. We’ll walk you through the process of getting your chosen minister ordained and your marriage license complete so you can enjoy the rest of the planning process. Let’s get started.

Step 1: Get Ordained with American Marriage Ministries

Let’s start with the ordainment process. According to Utah Code 81-2-305, the following individuals can perform marriage ceremonies in the State of Utah: 

"(a)    an individual 18 years old or older who is authorized by a religious denomination to solemnize a marriage;
(b)    a Native American spiritual advisor;
(c)    the governor;
(d)    the lieutenant governor;
(e)    the state attorney general;
(f)    the state treasurer;
(g)    the state auditor;
(h)    a mayor of a municipality or county executive;
(i)    a justice, judge, or commissioner of a court of record;
(j)    a judge of a court not of record of the state;
(k)    a judge or magistrate of the United States;
(l)    the county clerk of any county in the state or the county clerk's designee as authorized by Section 17-20-4;
(m)    a senator or representative of the Utah Legislature;
(nn)    a member of the state's congressional delegation; or
(oo)    a judge or magistrate who holds office in Utah when retired, under rules set by the Supreme Court."
 

If you do not already fall into any of these categories, no sweat. As long as you are 18 or older, you can get ordained with AMM which puts you in the priest or minister category. The process is free and takes just a few minutes.

When it comes time to perform your duties as the officiant, Salt Lake County may ask you to present documentation, which AMM provides for a fee. Although Utah generally does not require ministers to register with local authorities, we still recommend having proof of your registration on hand. (You can call the county clerk’s office before you perform the ceremony to ask if they will require you to bring the certificate in person.)

All your necessary minister credentials come in our Minister Ordination Package which you can purchase right here. 

Step 2: Prepare for the Ceremony in Salt Lake County

Now that the easy part is squared away, we can help you prepare for the wedding ceremony itself. Being asked to officiate a ceremony is an honor, but can feel like a lot of pressure. You’ll like our wedding training pages, which are a resource to help you prepare for your first ceremony and ensure that it goes smoothly. 

You’ll find everything from sample wedding ceremony scripts, to  brainstorming prompts, tips for preparation, and more.

Step 3: Officiate the Wedding and Complete the Marriage License

When it comes time to sign the marriage license, it’s the couple’s responsibility to obtain and complete the marriage license, but just be sure to double-check that they have a valid marriage license before the ceremony.

In Salt Lake County, once you have performed the ceremony and notarized the marriage license, you have successfully performed all of your functions as the wedding officiant. The couple will take care of the rest. So kick back, relax and revel in a job well done.

File for the Marriage License from the Salt Lake County Clerk's Office

You can jump start the process by applying for a marriage license online or appear in person at the Salt Lake County Clerk office at 2001 South State Street Suite S2 200 to fill out a paper application. Both members of the couple must be present. (If you do complete the application online, you’ll still have to come in to show ID.)

When you go, just remember to bring:

• A valid driver’s license or other state-issued ID
• Payment in the form of cash, check, money order, or credit card.

The Basics

Be sure to do your homework on all the gorgeous venues that Salt Lake City and the surrounding areas have to offer. The charming Northampton House is a popular spot, offering indoor and outdoor spaces, as well as highly rated catering services. If you’re looking for a more grand venue with lots of variety, you’ll love “This is the Place Heritage Park,” which has ten different event areas, including an indoor space high, vaulted ceilings.

Or, take advantage of the many scenic destinations in Utah, like the Zion Red Rock Oasis, a mansion venue in Rockville, nestled on 54 acres of scenic beauty next to Zion National Park. Couples love this spot for its red rock arches and epic canyon views.

Transportation

Salt Lake City has a good public transit system with commuter trains, buses, and light-rail to get you from Point A to Point B. However, depending on your venue of choice, you might find it easier to rent a car or utilize Uber and Lyft.

Weather

The city has a full range of seasons: a snowy winter, a hot, dry summer, and rainy autumns and springs. If you love the idea of a snowy wedding, there’s a good bet you’ll have one if you book your date sometime between January through March. In the summer months, temps can reach the mid 90s in Utah, so bear that in mind if you’re planning an outdoor affair.