Top 5 Easiest States to Get Married In (With Your Camera-Ready Moments!)
Let’s face it: planning a wedding can be a whirlwind of “I do’s” and “Wait, what?” But what if I told you that some states make it a breeze to get married—like, cake-walk easy? Whether you’re looking for stunning mountain views, southern charm, or just don’t want to deal with complicated paperwork, these five states are where the wedding stress melts away like buttercream frosting in the sun (or under my camera flash).
Grab your partner, pack your rings (and your best wedding photographer—ahem), and let’s dive into the top 5 easiest states to tie the knot!
1. Alabama: Sweet Home (and Easy Weddings!)
Alabama isn’t just known for its southern hospitality and gorgeous nature—it’s also one of the easiest places to get married. There’s no waiting period, no blood test (thank goodness), and you don’t even need an officiant! Just submit the marriage license to the probate court and boom—hitched! Plus, with Little River Canyon and Gulf Shores as your backdrop, you’ll have photos that scream Southern charm and natural beauty. I mean, who wouldn’t want to say “I do” with a waterfall or beach sunset behind them?
Pro Tip: The marriage license fee is around $70. I can notarize it. If you spend the rest of your budget on an epic photographer (cough, cough), I promise, you won’t regret it.
2. Colorado: Rocky Mountain Marriages Made Simple
Getting married in Colorado? Piece of cake. Literally, you can marry yourselves—no officiant required! This state is perfect for couples who want to say their vows surrounded by the jaw-dropping Rocky Mountains or vast golden plains. Whether you’re eloping at Garden of the Gods or going full-on mountain chic at Aspen, all you need is a license from the county clerk, and you’re ready to take that selfie as official spouses. Don’t forget to invite your photographer (I may be slightly biased)!
Pro Tip: No waiting period, no fuss, and you can get your license for just $30. Spend the rest on some awesome wedding shots in the mountains!
3. Tennessee: Love & Marriage in the Land of Smoky Mountains
Tennessee brings in the country charm and keeps the marriage process short and sweet. There’s no waiting period unless you’re under 18. Get your license on the spot and head straight to the Smoky Mountains for those moody, fog-covered peaks that look straight out of a Nicholas Sparks movie. Whether you’re marrying in Gatlinburg or Chattanooga, Tennessee’s easy marriage process and stunning photo ops make it a favorite.
Pro Tip: Tennessee requires a photo ID and a small license fee of $90. Take the rest of your cash and splurge on a cozy mountain cabin for those post-vows photos.
4. Nevada: Fast, Fabulous, and Full of Glitz
You’ve probably heard of Vegas weddings, but Nevada is more than just Elvis impersonators and drive-through chapels (though, those are fun too!). Nevada’s got the whole “let’s get married now” thing down to a science—no waiting period, no blood tests. Just pick up your license, and you can be married faster than you can say “jackpot”! For couples wanting those iconic Red Rock Canyon photos or a quirky Vegas Strip vibe, this state has it all. And did I mention, it’s all super easy?
Pro Tip: The license fee in Vegas is $77—just enough left over for a celebratory cocktail or two after your photo session.
5. Wyoming: Wild, Wide-Open Weddings
For couples seeking adventure, wide-open spaces, and minimal wedding red tape, Wyoming is calling your name! Get your license, and you can marry right away with no waiting period. The wide, endless skies of Wyoming make for some seriously dramatic photo backdrops. Whether you’re exchanging vows in Yellowstone or at the base of the Grand Tetons, it’s easy to start your next adventure here—plus, I’ll be there to capture it all!
Pro Tip: Wyoming’s marriage license is just $30, and the memories you’ll make in the great outdoors? Priceless.
Bonus State: Maine
Maine isn’t just for lobsters—it’s for love! This quaint, scenic state has a pretty laid-back marriage process. There’s no waiting period for residents, and for non-residents, it’s only a few days. Want to get married on a rocky coastline with waves crashing behind you? Acadia National Park has your name written all over it. And just think of those rugged coastal photos!
Don’t Let Wedding Stress Get the Best of You!
Getting married doesn’t have to be complicated, especially in these states. From southern simplicity in Alabama to self-solemnization in Colorado, these spots make saying “I do” a breeze. And while you’re planning, don’t forget—capturing those moments is just as important as the marriage license. (Hey, that’s where I come in!)
So, what do you say? Ready to start planning and make some epic wedding memories? I’ll bring the camera, you bring the love.
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