Getting Married with a Private Officiant at the Santa Barbara Courthouse

Marriage License

To get married in California, you need a California marriage license. The first step in the process is to obtain a marriage license either at your local city hall/courthouse or obtain one if you get to Santa Barbara on a weekday between 8am-3:45pm. Once you obtain your license it is good for 90 days and you’re ready to get married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse!

Officiant

Why a private officiant? You have 2 options: you can either have the county clerk officiate a non-customized 5-minute ceremony or you can opt for a customized ceremony that can include your own personal vows. To do this you need an awesome officiant to perform and finalize your marriage! Your officiant will formalize your union, sign your marriage license and submit it to the county clerk for processing.

My recommendation is the magnificent Ceremonies by Nanette! I’ve worked many weddings with her and her thoughtful words and smile have brought so much joy to so many couples over the years!

And let’s not forget about the other vendors that will make your special day AMAZING. Let me know if there are other vendors you may need!

Hair + Makeup: Dreamcatcher Artistry

Floral Design: Jen of Twisted Twig

Free Ceremony Location

The grounds of the Santa Barbara Courthouse are stunning! For afternoon ceremonies, I prefer Area G which is also known as the “Marriage Tree” because it has two trees growing from one tree trunk. Earlier in the day, I love areas A-C. I recommend different areas depending on the time of day you would like to get married.

Portraits

Learn about my elopement photography packages-I’d LOVE to photograph your special wedding day! And check out Victoria + Bryce’s gorgeous elopement!