So, you’ve decided to elope in Maryland. Now what?

You have a few more decisions to narrow down such as: Which Maryland County will the marriage be performed in? How do you want your day to unravel? Do you want anyone to be there for this?

Eloping Administrative Details

Begin your journey by taking a trip to the circuit courthouse of the county your marriage will be taking place in and apply for your marriage license. 

When applying for your marriage license in Maryland, you will need to have the applicants’ social security card, official birth certificates, and a payment method as well. 

You must get your marriage license at least 48-hours before your intended marriage date, it will not be valid until then. You can wait up to 6-months before it expires. 

You and your partner will also need an officiant to perform your ceremony and the folks eligible to do so include an official of a religious group, a county clerk, a judge, or a deputy clerk. Check your county’s requirements to determine whether or not you need a witness… or two. 

Maximizing Your Elopement Day

While many people minimize an elopement and chalk it up to signing the paperwork, or just running down to the courthouse to “knock it out,” your day can be so much more than that. Take the opportunity while committing yourselves to one another and make it special–it’s YOUR day! Take a walk around your favorite city, grab a meal from your go-to restaurant. Are you more of an adventurer? If so, take a hike, either  to a mountain top like Catoctin Mountain with one heck of a view, or travel to a waterfall or a beach and shoreline such as Assateague Island, for an incredible backdrop. Write each other love letters and read them to one another rather than stumbling through vows loud enough for an entire guest list to hear them. Visit one of the area’s museums or botanical gardens, perhaps Rawlings Conservatory. Rent a unique rental property or maybe even an airbnb for your special day. If you’re considering using public land, you may need a special permit. An elopement is still a very exciting way to get hitched and actually make the day about you and your partner!