Wedding Planning

Wedding planning can be exciting and stressful, but you can dramatically reduce any stress by outlining a wedding plan. Knowing how to determine your budget, where to obtain a marriage license, and how to find and secure your dream wedding venue are all great starting points. Before you know it, the big day will be here, and your guests will be in awe of what an enchanting experience you have in store.

Where to Get a Marriage License 

Downtown Customer Service Center (appointment recommended)
601 W. Jackson St., Phoenix, AZ 85003

Northeast Regional Court (by appointment only)
18380 N. 40th St., Phoenix, AZ 85032

Northwest Regional Court (by appointment only)
14264 W. Tierra Buena Ln., Surprise, AZ 85374

Southeast Regional Court Center (by appointment only)
222 E Javelina, Mesa, AZ 85210

Setting the wheels in motion to acquire a marriage license should be at the top of your wedding checklist. If you need a marriage license quickly, you can apply in person at the above locations. An appointment may be necessary, and both parties must be present and bring the necessary paperwork, required documentation, and accepted forms of identification and payment. After following the necessary steps, you will receive your license the same day you apply. You can be wed on this day if you have made arrangements with your officiator.

In Maricopa County, Arizona, residents can apply for a marriage license online through the Clerk of the Superior Court. They review applications within 7 to 10 business days after submission. They will contact you by phone if your application is accepted for identity verification and payment processing.   

If a courthouse wedding is more your speed, look to Justice Court.

Determine Your Budget 

With everything you need for a wedding, determining your budget is key. Through a quick online search, you can find several wedding budget calculators to help you decide how much you can spend on your special day. Many of these tools help you estimate expenses such as invitations, reception venue and rentals, wedding photography and/or videography, catering, entertainment, and services like bartending.

Find the Ideal Venue

There are numerous things to consider when choosing your wedding venue, but the first action item is to start your search as early as possible. Once you get things moving, ask these questions:

• Does the venue match your wedding theme?
• Is the price within your budget?
• If outdoors, what is the backup plan if inclement weather hits?
• Does the venue offer discounts for hiring vendors they recommend?
• Is the space large enough to accommodate your guests?
• Can the reception be held on-site?
• Will there be expenses for out-of-town guests (or all guests if yours is a destination wedding)?
• Does the venue have good reviews?
• Are there any restrictions?
• How long can you and your guests remain at the venue?

Work Together With Your Partner

Even if they are reluctant to assist with planning, you’ll want to discuss several topics with your partner when planning your wedding. Among them: What wedding theme works for both of you? Who will make the guest list, and who do you need to leave off? Do you both agree on the wedding party? If not, it’s important to compromise on this or anything else. After all, it’s a special day for all involved, but none more than the two of you.

A great way to approach your wedding checklist is to divide and conquer. Assign action items that play to your individual strengths. Most of all, have fun and grow together as you plan one of, if not the biggest day of your lives.