Virtual Marriage - Is It Right For Me?

Jan 11

We know there have been many negative outcomes from the worldwide pandemic that is still disrupting our daily lives. Wedding planning seems near impossible. There are, however, some positive opportunities that have come to light. One of these, is virtual marriage. It’s a valid option for couples who want to get married now, safely and economically.

Is A Virtual Marriage Right For Me?

If you’re located or can get to California, Illinois or New York, during your

Marriage License Application and
Virtual Marriage (ceremony or license signing), you can marry legally, virtually.

State processes:

California
- State Governor Executive Order legalizing virtual marriage
- Apply for Marriage Licenses by County
Colorado
- State Governor Executive Order legalizing virtual marriage
- Apply for Marriage Licenses by County
Illinois
- State Governor Executive Order legalizing virtual marriage
- Apply for Marriage Licenses by County
  - Cook County Virtual Marriage License Application
New York

What additional elements of a traditional wedding can I incorporate in a virtual marriage?

Food
- Good food is great anytime. Order or cook ahead so you can share a delicious meal, just the two of you or simultaneously with your virtual guests!
Bar
- Bubbly is always appropriate, be sure to communicate with any guests if you’d like them to participate in a toast.
Cake
- Treat yourself! Seriously, cake or your sweets of preference are highly encouraged.
Ceremony
- If you choose to do a virtual ceremony, the words that are shared may carry even more weight than normal. Take time to consider how you want your union to be articulated and who you want to support you as officiant.
Cinematography & Streaming
- Tech is coming in clutch with virtual ceremonies. Where it’s allowed per COVID-19 guidelines, consider hiring someone to shoot a video of you getting ready, having your virtual ceremony and even dancing and sharing cake afterwards. It doesn’t hurt to beef up the streaming capabilities, too, if you have a lot of virtual guests or want professional quality.
Dance
- For some couples, this is a moment they’ve been waiting for so keep your first dance plans in if you want!
Entertainment
- We love the idea of hiring a band to serenade you and your guests virtually. If you’re hiring streaming service who has the capability of mixing audio and visuals, you could have a lovely soundscape throughout your virtual marriage. Or just play your favorite jams while you’re getting ready.
Fashion
- What’s the right fit for you? Wedding clothes? PJs? Inflatable T-Rex costumes?
Favors & Stationery
- If you want to send something to your guests, consider items that will make your virtual marriage interactive like food order credit so you can all enjoy pizza at the same time, party accessories like balloons or photo booth props, and save the dates if you’re planning to celebrate together in the future.
Floral
- Maybe you’re thinking something practical like an arrangement or potted plants for your home. Or maybe you want to be more adventurous and add a floral crown or collar for your pets, or a full backdrop of blooms.
Photography
- Similar to cinematography, photos are a great way to document your special day, even if it’s downsized and virtual. Plus you can share those photos with your loved ones if you decide on a private virtual marriage.
Rings
- Love your rings or other items you’re exchanging? Brag about them, show them off, and share the story of how you picked them out.
Speeches
- This is a great opportunity for your VIP guests to interact with you. Let your guests know what your timeline looks like and ask them to make a speech, it gives you a bit of a break from the spotlight and adds more touching content for everyone!