Marriage License 101: How (and When) to Apply and Sign in South Carolina
- Parris Balazs
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
As a wedding planner, one of the most common questions we get from couples is: “When do we apply for our marriage license? And how does the signing process actually work?”
If you’re getting married in South Carolina, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from application to signing and beyond.
When to Apply for Your Marriage License
Timing matters! In South Carolina, your marriage license is valid for six months after it's issued. That means you shouldn’t apply too early—no need to get it a year out. Time your application so that you're within that six-month window of your wedding day.
Where to Apply
Here’s something many couples don’t realize: you can apply for your SC marriage license in any county—not just the one you’re getting married in. Why? Because you’re applying for a state license, not a city- or county-specific one.
For example, Richland County only accepts online applications. That’s right—no need to make an in-person trip to the courthouse. Just head to their website and complete the application online.
Who Can Officiate and Who Needs to Sign
To make it legal, you’ll need an ordained minister, preacher, or notary public to conduct your ceremony and oversee the license signing. In South Carolina, you do not need additional witnesses—just the two of you and your officiant.
The Signing Process
Here’s what to expect on the big day: you’ll sign three copies of your marriage license during the ceremony.
Two copies are mailed back to the probate court.
One copy is yours to keep as newlyweds.
Pro Tip: The court provides a pre-addressed envelope for mailing the documents. We always recommend adding a stamp ahead of time so it’s ready to drop in the mail post-ceremony.
How We Set You Up for a Smooth Signing
We’ve seen the signature boxes get mixed up more times than we can count—which is why we take the extra step to pre-fill your license with the month, date, year, city, and county ahead of your ceremony. We also place small “X”s to clearly mark where each person should sign. It’s all about setting you up for success and avoiding avoidable mistakes.
Make It a Moment (and Get the Shot!)
The signing of your marriage license is a legal formality, yes—but it’s also a special milestone. We work closely with your photographer to pose and style this moment beautifully. Picture this: the groom’s hand gently behind the bride’s back, the bouquet facing the camera (if it’s still in play), and the bride’s hand placed on his shoulder or arm when it’s her turn to sign. With a few subtle tweaks, we turn this into a photo-worthy scene.
Your First Private Newlywed Moment
Right after the signing, we love to sneak our couples away for a private moment together. We’ll tuck you into the bridal suite or a quiet corner of your venue for a celebratory toast, light snacks, and a deep breath before your grand entrance into the reception. Trust us—this pause is magic.
What Happens After the Wedding?
Our support doesn’t stop at “I do.” We guide our clients through every next step:
How to update your name
Where you can and can’t use your couple’s copy
How to order certified copies
And all the little things that come with newlywed life
Final Thoughts
Legal details like marriage licenses may not be the most glamorous part of wedding planning—but they matter. And when you work with a planner who handles every detail, including the paperwork, you get to relax and focus on what really matters: celebrating your love.
If you’re planning your wedding in South Carolina, let’s connect. We’d love to walk this journey with you—from the application to the aisle, and everything in between.
Need help applying for your license or planning your day? [Contact us here] or schedule a consultation—we’re here to make sure you’re covered, every step of the way. 💕
Parris Balazs
Owner and Creative Director
Eventfully Chic by Parris
