How to Get Married in Columbia SC
If you’ve been wondering how to get married in Columbia SC, the good news is that it’s easier than most couples expect. Whether you’re planning a full ceremony or just want to make it official quickly and quietly, there’s a clear path from “we want to do this” to “it’s done.”
Start with your marriage license
Before any ceremony can happen, you’ll need a marriage license from the county where you plan to get married. In the Columbia area, that means visiting either the Richland County Probate Court or the Lexington County Probate Court, depending on which side of the Congaree River you’re on.
Both spouses must appear in person with a valid photo ID. You don’t need to be a South Carolina resident. Couples from out of state get married here all the time. The license has no expiration date and works anywhere in the state. There’s a 24 hour mandatory waiting period, so same-day ceremonies are not allowed.
Pick your officiant
South Carolina law requires your ceremony be performed by an ordained minister, a judge, or a notary public who is also a licensed wedding officiant. That last option has become the go-to for couples who want something personal without the courthouse atmosphere.
A wedding officiant in Columbia SC can come to you. A park, your backyard, a hotel suite, a parking lot if that’s where the moment is. Location is mostly up to you. If you’re after a quick wedding ceremony in Columbia SC with no fanfare, that flexibility is probably what you’re looking for.
What the ceremony actually requires
South Carolina doesn’t mandate specific words. Your officiant needs to solemnize the marriage — there’s a clear declaration of intent, the license gets signed, and you’re married.
Witnesses are not legally required in South Carolina, which surprises a lot of people. If you’re considering eloping in Columbia SC or want a sign and go wedding in Columbia SC, you and your partner can show up alone and it’s perfectly valid.
After the ceremony
Your officiant signs the marriage license and gives you one copy which will be your original certificate of marriage. The other two copies are returned to the county probate court, and you can get a certified copy of your marriage certificate in about a week if you need one (you don’t have to order one).
Book your ceremony
If you’re ready to make it official, Marriage Notary and Wedding Officiant serves couples throughout Columbia, Lexington, West Columbia, Cayce, Irmo, and the surrounding Midlands. Schedule your ceremony by giving us a call at 803-446-3405. Or fill out the contact form on our website, marriagenotary.com/contact/.