You’re eloping in Connecticut- Congratulations to you and your beloved! If you’re dreaming of a romantic, intimate celebration that’s as meaningful as it is stress-free, you’re in the right place. At mbm weddings, we specialize in Connecticut elopements and are honored to help couples craft a luxurious and personalized experience.
A bit about us: We’re Brian and Melanie, the duo behind mbm weddings. Melanie is an officiant licensed to marry couples in Connecticut and works closely with each couple to create a heartfelt, custom ceremony. Brian photographs the entire experience- from the “I do” to the dreamy portraits that follow. After the ceremony, Melanie hops in and you’ll have two photographers, capturing every stolen glance and special moment. On the day after your wedding, we’ll take care of the legal paperwork and ensure everything is filed properly with your town or city.
Now that you’ve decided to elope, here are the most common legal and logistical questions couples ask when eloping in Connecticut:
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Click here to view Julianna and John’s elopement.
How Do We Get a Marriage License?
To get married in Connecticut, you and your partner must apply for a marriage license at the town or city hall where the ceremony will take place. Both of you need to be present, and you’ll typically need:
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Valid photo IDs (like a driver’s license or passport)
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Payment for the application fee (varies by town)
- A completed application that you’ll fill out at city hall or town hall
You can apply as early as 65 days before your elopement—or even on the same day! That said, we always recommend applying at least one week in advance to avoid any unexpected hiccups, such as a registrar being out sick or your city being one of the few that requires an appointment. Once we know your location, we’ll call the town hall for you to gather all the specifics.
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How Long After the Elopement Will We Receive Our Marriage Certificate?
This depends on the town, but in most cases, couples receive their official marriage certificate by mail within about a week of the ceremony. If you have specific timing needs (like traveling out of the country), let us know, and we’re happy to follow up with the registrar for you. .jpg)
How Do We File the Marriage License?
Here’s the best part: you don’t have to worry about filing the license yourself! If Brian and I officiate and photograph your elopement, we’ll take care of all the paperwork for you. You just need to bring your love and say, “I do.”
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Do We Need a Witness to Elope in CT?
Nope! Legally, Connecticut does not require witnesses for civil ceremonies, which means you can keep your elopement completely private. If you’re planning a religious ceremony, the requirements may differ, but for a romantic elopement in the woods, on the coast, or at a charming B&B, you won’t need a witness at all. Just the two of you (and us!).
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Click here to view Amy and Edward’s intimate wedding.
How Much Does It Cost to Elope in CT?
The cost of eloping in Connecticut can vary based on a few factors:
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Your town’s marriage license fee (typically around $50)
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Permit fees if you’re eloping at a state park, private venue, or historic site
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Your chosen elopement collection with mbm weddings
Since we’re both your officiant and your photographers, you’ll only be working with one vendor team, keeping things simple and elegant. Your investment depends on the location and adventure you choose, whether that’s a sunrise ceremony on the shoreline or a golden-hour hike to a mountaintop.
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Click here to view Katie and Atheer’s intimate wedding.
We hope this guide helps you feel more confident and excited about eloping in Connecticut. Whether you’re planning a quiet moment in the forest or a windswept vow exchange on the coast, we’d love to be part of your day.
Ready to start planning your luxurious, intimate elopement? Get in touch today and let’s begin this beautiful journey together.
