How to Perform a Marriage in Kanawha County

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 Kanawha County! 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 Kanawha County

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 Kanawha County

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

2. Learn Kanawha County Marriage Requirements

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

Office Address:: 409 Virginia Street East
Charleston, WV 25301
Office Phone Number:: (304) 357-0130
Office Website:: Kanawha County Office Website

3. Who Can Officiate a Wedding in Kanawha County?

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 Kanawha County:: $17,000

4. What You'll Need to Officiate in Kanawha County

The office in Kanawha County 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 Kanawha County 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 Kanawha County Marriage Licenses Work

With the ceremony complete, the last - and most important - responsibility remains: Signing and returning the marriage license. A marriage license in Kanawha County is valid for 6 days, so don't delay. Keep in mind that once the marriage license has been obtained, there is a mandatory 2-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:: 2 Days
Marriage License Valid For:: 6 Days
Return Within:: Within 6 Days of Ceremony

6. Performing a Wedding in Kanawha County

Kanawha County is sometimes called the heart of West Virginia, a perfect name for a perfect place to hold a wedding ceremony. Surrounded by mountains and dense forests that give a beautiful calming vibe. If couples are looking for a place to host a wedding there are many beautiful venues with wonderful accommodations that can make their wedding dreams come true.

7. What You Should Do Now for a Wedding in Kanawha County

Snow and rain are possible from January through April, making spring and summer the traditional wedding seasons here.

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