How to Perform a Marriage in Seattle

Researched and edited for you by trained team members at GetOrdained.org

If you've been asked to officiate a wedding, you know it's an exciting opportunity. However, it can also be a bit intimidating. That's why we've put together this guide on officiating weddings in Seattle! We'll go over everything you need to know, from how to get ordained, to how to contact your local wedding registrar, and what, exactly, you'll need from us.

1. How to Become a Minister in Seattle

If you haven't already, you'll want to get ordained as a ULC minister by clicking the button below. Get Ordained™ 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!

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Important Info for Ministers in Seattle

ULC Ordination Accepted:: Yes
Minister Registration Required:: No
Documents Required:: N/A
Minister's Residency:: Irrelevant
Minister's Minimum Age:: 18

2. Learn Seattle Marriage Requirements

Once you're ordained, the next thing you'll want to do is contact the office in Seattle 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 Seattle office's contact information below.

Office Address:: 201 S. Jackson St, Suite 204
Seattle, WA 98104
Office Phone Number:: (206) 477-9521
Office Website:: Seattle Office Website

3. Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Seattle?

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 Seattle:: $40,000

4. What You'll Need to Officiate in Seattle

The office in Seattle 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 Seattle 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 Seattle Marriage Licenses Work

With the ceremony complete, the last - and most important - responsibility remains: Signing and returning the marriage license. A marriage license in Seattle is valid for 60 days, so don't delay. Keep in mind that once the marriage license has been obtained, there is a mandatory 3-day 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:: 3 Days
Marriage License Valid For:: 60 Days
Return Within:: 30 Days

6. Performing a Wedding in Seattle

The emerald of the Pacific Northwest, Seattle, has amazing wedding venue locations from the Cascades to Puget Sound. One of the most notable is the Space Needle, with mesmerizing views of Puget Sound, Lake Union, or any venue with a view of the iconic Seattle skyline. Boasting several restaurants and chefs that have been presented with the prestigious James Beard Foundation award, everyone is sure to find something to love.

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

Remember to keep an eye on Seattle area weather forecasts as you prepare for the event especially during the spring and winter months, which are notorious for rain.

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