1. How to Become a Minister in Columbia

If you haven't already, you'll want to get ordained as a ULC minister by clicking the button below. Get Ordainedâ„¢ offers ordination through Universal Life Church within moments and completely free of charge. All you have to do is sign up, fill out a short form, and you'll be a legally ordained minister, able to officiate weddings and more. Sign up today!

Important Info for Ministers in Columbia

ULC Ordination Accepted:
Yes
Minister Registration Required:
Sometimes
Documents Required:
N/A
Minister's Residency:
Irrelevant
Minister's Minimum Age:
18

2. Learn Columbia Marriage Requirements

Once you're ordained, the next thing you'll want to do is contact the office in Columbia that handles marriage licenses. You'll want to tell them that you're an ordained minister officiating a wedding, and ask what documentation they want to see from you in order to officiate a wedding. You can find the Columbia office's contact information below.

Office Address:
801 East Walnut, Rm 132
Columbia, MO 65201
Office Phone Number:
(573) 886-4345
Office Website:
Columbia Office Website

3. Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Columbia?

If you're ordained as a minister of the Universal Life Church, you can! Many couples are choosing to both cut costs and personalize their event by enlisting a close family friend or loved one to officiate their ceremony.

The couple could ask anyone, but they've asked you to forever be a part of their love story! Consider it a great honor. It's important to note that not everyone knows that this is even an option. If you know someone who has an upcoming wedding, you might consider asking who is performing their ceremony, and let them know that you're available if needed. Who knows, you might just get a reputation as a go-to officiant!

Average Cost of a Wedding in Columbia:
$25,000

4. What You'll Need to Officiate in Columbia

The office in Columbia will be able to tell you what you'll need to pick up from our online store in order to perform a wedding. One of the most popular options for ministers in Columbia is the Classic Wedding Kit!

Now you can get to the fun part: officiating the wedding itself. Whether it's your first time performing a wedding, or you just need to refresh your memory, we suggest taking a look at our wedding training center, which is full of all the resources you'll need to give the couple the wedding they deserve.

5. How Columbia Marriage Licenses Work

With the ceremony complete, the last - and most important - responsibility remains: Signing and returning the marriage license. A marriage license in Columbia is valid for 30 days, so don't delay. Keep in mind that once the marriage license has been obtained, there is no mandatory waiting period before the wedding ceremony can happen. Also note that the marriage license must be returned to the office that issued it within the time limit given after it has been signed.

Remember, this is a legal document! Take your time to ensure that it's been filled out properly before it is returned to the issuing office. If you need in-depth instructions on how to fill it out, take a look at our marriage license training page for assistance.

Marriage License Waiting Period:
None
Marriage License Valid For:
30 Days
Return Within:
15 Days

6. Performing a Wedding in Columbia

Missouri's fastest growing city, Columbia, is also its fourth-most populous, and it boasts venues and parks for a wedding in droves, including many beautiful hotels and estates. If a park is more their speed, couples will love Stephens Lake Park, especially for its sizeable, gorgeous atrium which is perfect for a ceremony and reception.

7. What You Should Do Now for a Wedding in Columbia

A Midwestern hailstorm or thunderstorm can always even take locals by surprise so make sure you look at the forecast before attending your event.

You know the ins and outs of officiating weddings in Columbia now, but don't forget to sign up as a ULC minister for free by clicking the button below!

With this first step conquered, you'll be officiating fully legal weddings in Columbia in no time!