Your Alberta Wedding Checklist: Getting Hitched the Right Way
Getting married is one of the most exciting times in your life! If you’re planning to tie the knot in Alberta within the next 90 days, there’s one important thing you need to check off your list—getting your marriage licence! Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think, and we’ve got all the details you need right here.
Step 1: Pop the Question… to the Registry! First off, you and your soon-to-be spouse are in charge of getting your marriage licence. Think of it as a mini adventure! You’ll need to visit an Alberta registry office together (how romantic, right?) and bring a government-issued photo ID, like a passport, driver’s licence, or treaty status card. You’ll also need to swear an affidavit and share some personal details, like your full names and even where your parents were born. Hey, it’s all part of the story!
Previously Married? No Problem! If either of you has been married before, don’t forget to bring along your divorce documents, like a Certificate of Divorce or Decree Absolute. It’s just a little paperwork to ensure you’re both set for your new chapter.
Pro Tip: What to Bring! If you’re unsure what you need, give us a shout at Country Hills Plates, and we’ll help you out. Heads up—there’s government fees for the licence, plus any additional registry agent fees. But hey, love is priceless, right?
Step 2: Got the Licence? Double-Check! Before you leave the registry office, take a minute to review your marriage licence. You definitely want it error-free before the big day! If there’s a mistake, no worries, the registry agent can fix it on the spot. But after the wedding, it’ll take a Vital Statistics amendment process to correct—nobody wants that extra hassle, especially after all the wedding fun!
Step 3: The Big Day—What to Expect Your marriage licence is actually a two-part document: the top part is the Registration of Marriage, and the bottom part is the actual marriage licence. Hand this over to your officiant on your wedding day, and they’ll take care of the rest. After your “I dos,” you, your new spouse, your officiant, and your witnesses will all sign the Registration of Marriage. This makes it official!
Step 4: After the Wedding Bells Once the confetti settles, your officiant will send your signed marriage licence to Vital Statistics to make sure your marriage is legally registered in Alberta. You can also handle this step at a registry office (fees may apply), but don’t worry, it’s all part of the process.
Step 5: Time to Order Your Marriage Certificate Want the official proof that you’re hitched? You can order your marriage certificate by filling out an Application for Marriage Documents form on the Government of Alberta website. Bring that to your favourite registry office (we know just the one—Country Hills Plates!), and you’re good to go.
Country Hills Plates: Your Wedding Helpers in Calgary Getting married soon? We’re here to help make your journey as smooth as possible! Whether it’s getting your marriage licence, changing your name, or sorting out driver licensing after the wedding, we’ve got you covered at Country Hills Plates. Let’s make your big day hassle-free, so you can focus on the love and laughter.
Visit us in person or give us a call today! Love is in the air, and we’re excited to help you get everything in order for your happily ever after.