While a wedding is a celebration of love and commitment, it is also a legal ceremony. As such, there are some legal aspects you’ll need to consider and that must be met before we can go ahead with your ceremony.

The most current and accurate information can be found on the Government of Alberta website. Here you will find the province’s Marriage Act, information about getting married and requirements for obtaining a Marriage Licence.

The basics include:

You’ll need to get a marriage licence from any registry office in Alberta. Yes, that’s the same place you’d go for a driver’s licence or to register your vehicle.
Make sure both of you go as you need to complete the application together. Don’t forget to take proper ID with you.
You’ll also need to know your parents’ birthplaces and their names, including your mother’s maiden name.
Also, if either of you has been married before, you’ll need to show your final divorce papers.
Once you’ve got your licence, it’s good for three months from the day it’s issued.
And the real biggie … don’t forget to have your licence with you on your wedding day! Without the licence, your marriage commissioner cannot perform the ceremony for you. Yikes!!
After the ceremony, I will provide you with a Civil Marriage Statement. While this statement is a proof-of-marriage document, in some instances you may be asked to provide an official Certificate of Marriage. Note that the province does not automatically issue you a certificate after the ceremony. You will need to apply for one at a registry office for an additional fee.