I'm just as anxious as you are to make your marriage ceremony a one-of-a-kind event that not only reflects your individuality, but also the uniqueness of the bond you are forging. However, first there are a few mundane earthbound steps you will have to slog through just like everyone else getting married in Ontario. I'm talking about the paperwork the marriage commissioner requires all couples to submit before a wedding officiant can perform a marriage ceremony. This is true no matter whether you want a civil ceremony, religious, traditional, or non-traditional.

Marriage License

If this is the first marriage for both of you, All you will need is a marriage license. You can get this at any city hall, town hall, or municipal office in Ontario. You do not have to get it in Barrie. You will have to show two pieces of government-issued I.D. at the time you fill out the marriage license application form, so be sure to bring that with you when you go to apply. And timing is key. The marriage commissioner requires that a marriage ceremony must take place within 90 days of issuance. So this is one case where taking care of business too far in advance will work against you.

Certificate of Divorce

If either one of you, or both has been previously married and are divorced, you will need to bring a certificate of divorce along with you when you apply for your marriage license, This is different from the document you received when your divorce was finalized. If you do not already have a certificate of divorce you will have to go back to the court that granted it. If you already have one, you're fine. Unlike marriage license, a certificate of divorce has no expiration date.

Marriage Certificate

Although it's not required for a marriage ceremony, it's a good idea to get a marriage certificate even though this is a separate process that requires you to wait three months after the wedding before applying. A marriage certificate is different from the record of solemnization you will receive after the marriage ceremony. The marriage certificate is the only acceptable proof of marriage document recognized by the province of Ontario. And once you finally receive it, store it in a safe place, and remember where that is since you will need it to:

 

• change your name

• apply for social benefits

• settle an estate

• file for divorce

So there you have it. Once you're done with the paperwork, we can get on with the fun awaiting us. Yes, us because I consider your wedding as much a part of my life experience as you do - well almost!

Check out my website to learn how to book a marriage ceremony with me.