Who can legally officiate a wedding in Illinois?

You may choose a judge, certain public officials, or a religious official to “officiate,” meaning to perform your ceremony. Your officiant must complete the certificate confirming that your ceremony has been performed, and forward it to the county clerk within 10 days of your marriage.

Can Illinois notaries officiate weddings?

Currently, only Florida, Montana, Maine, Nevada, South Carolina and Tennessee authorize Notaries to perform weddings as part of their official duties.

How much does an officiant cost in Illinois?

Wedding officiants may have flat rates for standard ceremony templates, perhaps $100-$125, and charge more for a more customized experience, such as $150-$200.

Do you need an officiant to get married in Illinois?

In addition to having a valid marriage license, marriage in Illinois requires solemnification in order to be official. Once the ceremony takes place (i.e., the marriage is “solemnified”), the County Clerk’s office will register the marriage.

Can you self solemnize in Illinois?

Illinois allows self solemnization in accordance with religious or indigenous ceremonies. California has a separate marriage license application for couples who identify with a “non-clergy” belief system, but still requires two witness signatures.

Do you need a wedding officiant in Illinois?

Religious groups may license or ordain people to perform marriages, but Illinois does not. If someone wasn’t authorized to perform a marriage, the marriage is probably still valid.

Do you give the officiant a gift?

Of course, you don’t have to pick out a gift for your wedding officiant. If you’re already paying them for their part in your celebration, a simple thank-you card is more than enough. However, if you’ve enlisted a close friend or family member to help you tie the knot, a wedding officiant gift may be more appropriate.

Can you get married online in Illinois?

Couples can now apply for a Marriage License online. Pursuant to Executive Order 2020-36, signed by Governor Pritzker on May 1, 2020, authorizes our office to use videoconferencing technology to enable couples to apply for a Marriage License.