If you’ve ever attended a wedding where a best friend or family member performed the ceremony, you know how special and personal it can be. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate your relationship and include someone you love in your big day.

However, in Virginia, having a friend or family member officiate isn’t as straightforward as you might think—at least not if you want your marriage to be legally recognized.

Virginia’s Laws on Wedding Officiants

Virginia is one of the stricter states when it comes to who can legally solemnize a marriage. In short:
✔ You must have your marriage license signed by an authorized officiant vested by a Virginia court.
✔ Unlike some states, online ordinations (such as Universal Life Church and American Marriage Ministries) are not accepted in Virginia.

Technically, Virginia does allow people to apply for a one-time civil celebrant authorization through the circuit court, but here’s the catch:

  • Applications are often denied—especially in more populated counties as well as smaller counties who don’t have a separate civil wedding division.

  • Some courts require applicants to be residents of Virginia.

  • The process can involve court appearances, fees, and waiting periods.

I’ve seen this scenario play out too many times: couples assume their loved one can officiate, only to find out at the last minute that their marriage won’t be legal without a court-approved officiant. Cue the stress and scramble.

Avoid the Legal Headache

Your wedding day should be about joy and connection—not paperwork panic. That’s why I offer a Marriage License Signing Service, starting at just $250, which guarantees your marriage will be legally recognized in Virginia.

As an authorized officiant vested by the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am legally allowed to perform weddings and sign marriage licenses in any city or county in the state. Whether you want me to perform a full custom ceremony or simply sign your license after a friend “officiates” the symbolic portion, I’ve got you covered.

Getting Married Outside of Virginia?

No problem! My endorsement through the Humanist Society gives me the same legal standing as clergy in other states, so I can often help ensure your marriage is legal even if you’re saying “I do” beyond Virginia borders. (Always check local laws, but reach out—I’ll guide you through it!)

Here’s the Bottom Line

Your wedding ceremony can be anything you dream of—fun, heartfelt, traditional, completely unique. Just make sure the legal part is handled by someone who is actually authorized. Don’t leave the legality of your marriage up to chance.

📩 Have questions or need a legal signature for your license? Contact me today to book your license signing or learn more about my officiating services.